Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe (Just 3 Ingredients)

Want a sweet treat that’s quick and delicious? This Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is perfect! These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with peanut butter flavor. They’re ready in under 30 minutes and use simple ingredients. Great for kids, parties, or a cozy snack, they’re budget-friendly and easy to make.

I baked these cookies for a family picnic, and they disappeared fast! The nutty taste and tender texture make them a hit with everyone. Plus, you can tweak them for dietary needs, like gluten-free or 3-ingredient versions. Let’s learn how to make peanut butter cookies that will steal the show!

Why You’ll Love These Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

These soft peanut butter cookies are a dream come true. They’re chewy, not crunchy, with a rich peanut butter taste. The recipe is simple, so beginners can nail it. You need just a few ingredients, and prep is quick. They’re perfect for bake sales, holidays, or midnight cravings. Kids love them, and adults can’t resist. You can even make a 3-ingredient version for extra ease. Best of all, they stay soft for days if stored right.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need for classic peanut butter cookies. These ingredients create a perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Grab These 9 Ingredients

For classic cookies, gather these staples. Most are probably in your pantry already.

Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients

• Main Ingredients:
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
  • ¾ cup creamy peanut butter (smooth, not crunchy)
  • ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free 1:1 flour blend)
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
• Optional Add-Ins:
  • ½ cup chocolate chips (for a chocolatey twist)
  • Coarse sugar (for rolling dough balls)

Ingredient Success Tips

Use room-temperature butter for smooth mixing. It blends better with peanut butter. Measure flour correctly—spoon it into the cup, don’t scoop. Too much flour makes cookies dry. Use creamy peanut butter for a soft texture. Crunchy peanut butter changes the consistency. Brown sugar adds chewiness, so don’t skip it. For gluten-free cookies, choose a 1:1 flour blend with xanthan gum, like Bob’s Red Mill.

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Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter?

Can I use natural peanut butter? Yes, but there’s a catch. Natural peanut butter (just peanuts and salt) can be oily. This may make cookies spread too much. If using natural, stir it well to mix the oil. Reduce butter by 1 tablespoon to balance. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor stays great. For best results, stick with commercial creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy.

Another Success Tip: Chill the Cookie Dough

Chill the cookie dough for better cookies. Why? Chilling firms up the dough. This prevents cookies from spreading too much. It also enhances flavor as ingredients meld. Refrigerate dough for 30–60 minutes before baking. If you’re short on time, 15 minutes in the freezer works too. Don’t skip this step—it’s a game-changer for soft, thick cookies.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies?

Making peanut butter cookies is easy and fun. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

How to Make Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, beat butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar with a mixer. Mix for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
3. Add egg and vanilla: Add egg and vanilla extract. Beat until combined, about 30 seconds.
4. Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to wet ingredients in two batches, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix.
5. Chill dough: Cover dough and chill in the fridge for 30–60 minutes. This helps cookies hold their shape.
6. Shape cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each). Place on baking sheet, 2 inches apart. Use a fork to press a crisscross pattern on each ball, flattening slightly. Roll in coarse sugar, if using.
7. Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes, until edges are set but centers are soft. Cookies will firm up as they cool.
8. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Make 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Want an even simpler version? Try how to make 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies. They’re quick, gluten-free, and just as tasty.

1. Gather ingredients: You need 1 cup creamy peanut butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and 1 large egg.
2. Mix dough: In a bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Stir until smooth. The dough will be thick.
3. Shape cookies: Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Press with a fork to make a crisscross pattern.
4. Bake: Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. Edges should be set. Centers will be soft.
5. Cool: Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack.

Storage Tips

Keep your cookies fresh with these tips. Proper storage makes a big difference.

How to Store Peanut Butter Cookies?

Place cooled cookies in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 1 week. Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

How to Store 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

The process is the same. Use an airtight container at room temperature for 5–7 days. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Since they’re egg-based, don’t leave them out too long in warm climates.

Can You Freeze Peanut Butter Cookies?

Yes! Freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough. For baked cookies, cool completely. Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, separated by parchment. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.

Can You Freeze 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies?

Absolutely. Follow the same steps. Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. For dough, roll into balls, freeze on a tray, then store in a bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

Nutrition Information

Approximate nutritional breakdown per classic cookie (based on 24 cookies):

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Protein: 3g
• Carbs: 12g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 8g

Note: Values vary based on peanut butter and flour type. Use an online calculator for precision.

Why These Cookies Are a Must-Try

This Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is a winner for many reasons. It’s quick to make, with classic and 3-ingredient options. The cookies are soft and chewy, not crumbly. They’re versatile—add chocolate chips or make them gluten-free. Kids and adults love them. They’re great for gifting, parties, or snacking. Plus, they freeze well for make-ahead baking.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

1. Chill the dough: It prevents spreading and boosts flavor.
2. Use creamy peanut butter: It gives the best texture.
3. Don’t overbake: Cookies firm up as they cool.
4. Press lightly with a fork: Too hard, and cookies flatten too much.

Pairing Suggestions

These soft peanut butter cookies pair well with:

• Milk: Dairy or plant-based for classic dunking.
• Coffee: A hot cup balances the sweetness.
• Ice Cream: Vanilla or chocolate for a dessert sandwich.

FAQs

What are the ingredients for 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies?

Just peanut butter, sugar, and an egg—simple and delicious!

Is eating peanut butter cookies good for you?

In moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet, especially if made with natural peanut butter and less sugar.

Why are my 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies falling apart?

They may be underbaked or missing proper mixing; let them cool completely to firm up.

What makes peanut butter cookies soft?

Using the right amount of fat (like peanut butter), not overbaking, and chilling the dough can help keep them soft.

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is a must for cookie lovers. It’s easy, versatile, and delivers soft, chewy perfection. Whether you go classic or try the 3-ingredient version, these cookies will impress. Bake a batch today, and share your thoughts in the comments!

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