1. Introduction
Are you craving a sweet and crunchy treat that’s both classic and irresistible? Our peanut butter cookies are the perfect solution! These cookies offer a delightful balance of sweet and nutty flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward, ensuring delicious results every time. So, let’s get started and bake some magic!
2. Ingredients
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for topping
3. & 4. Directions & How to Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine peanut butter and sugar in a large bowl until well mixed.
- Beat in the egg, baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir the mixture until it becomes a smooth dough.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool the cookies on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Optional: Add chocolate chips or chopped peanuts on top before baking for extra flavor.
5. Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes
6. Servings
This recipe yields about 24 cookies.
7. FAQs
Q: Can I use chunky peanut butter? A: Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds extra texture to the cookies.
Q: How can I make these cookies gluten-free? A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t require flour.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe? A: Yes, you can reduce the sugar, but it may affect the texture and sweetness.
Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh? A: Stored in an airtight container, they remain fresh for up to a week.
Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough? A: Yes, the dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
8. Conclusion
There you have it! Our perfectly crunchy peanut butter cookies are not just easy to make but are a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a comforting snack, or simply wanting to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to please. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the room for customization. Add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate them to the next level. Happy baking and enjoy your delicious creations!