Softest Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
If you’re a peanut butter lover, this peanut butter cookies recipe will become your new favorite! These classic cookies are rich, soft, slightly chewy, and packed with nutty goodness. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a party, or just a weekday treat, these cookies are quick to make and incredibly satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- 🥜 Rich peanut butter flavor in every bite
- ⏱️ Ready in under 30 minutes
- 🍪 Perfect soft and chewy texture
- 👩🍳 Easy to make with basic pantry ingredients
- 💡 Kid-approved and freezer-friendly
Ingredients You’ll Need
You probably have most of these ingredients in your kitchen already!
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
Optional Add-ins: Chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top!
How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture until a dough forms.
Step 4: Scoop and Shape
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Pro Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies
- Use room temperature ingredients for smooth mixing.
- Don’t over bake — cookies continue to cook slightly after removing from the oven.
- Chill the dough for 15–30 minutes if it’s too soft to handle.
- Double the batch — these cookies freeze well and are perfect for lunchboxes or late-night snacks.
Peanut Butter Cookie Variations
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies – Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough.
- Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies – Replace 1/2 cup of flour with oats.
- Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies – Use just peanut butter, sugar, and eggs for a gluten-free version.
Storage & Freezing
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezing dough: Roll into balls, freeze on a tray, then store in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen for 1–2 extra minutes.
- Freezing baked cookies: Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
This peanut butter cookies recipe is a tried-and-true favorite that never fails. Soft, chewy, and full of comforting flavor, they’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Whether you stick to the classic version or add your own twist, these cookies are bound to be a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
A: Yes, but make sure it’s well stirred and not too oily or dry.
Q: Why are my cookies dry?
A: Overbaking or using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Measure carefully and bake until just golden.
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
A: Absolutely! It adds a nice texture and extra peanut flavor.
