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Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the ingredients together until smooth and well combined. This should only take about 2 minutes.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
4. Form the Cookie Dough:
- Use a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a ball and place it onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading as they bake.
- For the classic peanut butter cookie look, use a fork to press a criss-cross pattern on top of each dough ball. Gently press down in one direction, then again in the opposite direction.
5. Bake the Cookies:
- Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are golden and the tops are set. Be careful not to overbake—these cookies should remain soft and chewy in the middle.
- After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve these peanut butter cookies warm, or store them in an airtight container for up to a week. For an extra treat, pair them with a glass of milk or enjoy them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple yet indulgent dessert.
Tips for the Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For the best texture, ensure that your peanut butter, egg, and butter (if using) are all at room temperature before mixing. This ensures that everything blends together smoothly.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Just mix until everything is incorporated.
- Don’t Overbake: The key to soft and chewy peanut butter cookies is to not overbake them. Pull them out of the oven as soon as the edges are golden and the centers are set. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
- Customize the Dough: Want to make these cookies even more decadent? Add in some chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even a handful of chopped peanuts for a bit of crunch. For a sweet-salty combo, sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking.
- Chill the Dough: If you prefer a thicker, puffier cookie, try chilling the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents them from spreading too much.
Why These Are My Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies
These peanut butter cookies have been a favorite of mine for as long as I can remember. There’s something so comforting about biting into a warm, soft cookie that’s filled with the rich flavor of peanut butter. They remind me of childhood afternoons spent baking with family, and they’re the perfect treat to share with loved ones or enjoy solo with a cup of coffee or tea.
What I love most about these cookies is their simplicity. There are no fancy ingredients, no complicated techniques—just the basics, done well. And they always turn out perfectly, every time. Whether I’m making a batch to share with friends or just for myself, these peanut butter cookies are always a hit.
Variations to Try
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies: Add chocolate chips to the dough for a classic peanut butter cup vibe.
- Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies: Stir in old-fashioned rolled oats for a chewy, hearty texture.
- Nutty Peanut Butter Cookies: Add chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels for extra crunch and flavor.
- Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies: Press a small thumbprint into the center of each cookie and fill it with your favorite jam or jelly before baking.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Cookie
There’s a reason peanut butter cookies are a classic. They’re simple, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. My favorite peanut butter cookies are the perfect balance of sweet and salty, soft and chewy, and they’ll quickly become a staple in your cookie-baking repertoire. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just need a quick treat, this recipe will deliver every time.
So, next time you’re in the mood for a comforting, delicious cookie, make sure to try these. You’ll be glad you did! Happy baking!
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