There’s nothing quite as comforting as the aroma of homemade cookies fresh out of the oven, and these Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are an absolute treat for both peanut butter lovers and anyone looking for a no-fuss, ultra-satisfying dessert. Requiring just a handful of pantry staples and barely any prep, this foolproof recipe delivers chewy, sweet, and salty cookies every time. Gluten-free by nature and ready in under 30 minutes, these gems promise nostalgic flavor and that classic crisscross finish that makes peanut butter cookies so beloved.

Easy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cookies so special! Each ingredient plays an important role, from lending smooth richness to achieving that perfectly chewy texture. With simplicity at the heart of this recipe, you’ll find it’s all about choosing high-quality basics for the best flavor.

Creamy Peanut Butter: The star of the show — gives these cookies their signature nutty depth and melts into each bite.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and caramelizes just a touch for an irresistible crisp edge and soft center.
Large Egg: Binds the dough and helps create a tender, chewy texture with every cookie.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and a subtle aroma, enhancing the overall flavor.
Baking Soda: Ensures these cookies bake up ever-so-slightly puffed and not too dense.
Pinch of Salt: Balances all the sweetness and really makes that peanut butter pop.

How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

To kick things off, set your oven to 350°F so it’s nice and hot by the time the dough is mixed. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep cleanup easy and to help your cookies bake evenly without sticking — a total lifesaver for those craving cookies in a hurry!

Step 2: Mix the Dough

Grab a medium mixing bowl and toss in the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and that little pinch of salt. Using a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon, mix everything together until the dough is glossy and completely smooth. There’s no need for a mixer here — the dough comes together in just a minute or two!

Step 3: Shape and Arrange

Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough (an ice cream scoop or spoon works perfectly) and roll it gently between your palms into a ball. Place each ball about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. This spacing ensures each Easy Peanut Butter Cookie will spread just enough while baking — no overcrowding!

Step 4: Fork Pattern Fun

Now for that classic touch: Use a fork to gently press each dough ball flat, creating a crisscross pattern on top. Not only is this a charming visual cue, but it also slightly flattens the cookie for even baking and the perfect texture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop the tray in your preheated oven and bake for 9 to 11 minutes. Watch for lightly golden edges — that’s your sign they’re done! The centers will still look soft, but don’t worry, they’ll finish setting as they cool.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This rest period is key: it prevents breakage and allows the Easy Peanut Butter Cookies to firm up just right, leaving you with cookies that are crisp at the edges but tender through the middle.

How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle the cookies with a bit of flaky sea salt right after baking for a gourmet twist, or drizzle with melted chocolate for a decadent touch. For peanut fans, a smattering of chopped roasted peanuts before baking adds crunch and extra flavor.

Side Dishes

There’s nothing like pairing these Easy Peanut Butter Cookies with a cold glass of milk (dairy or plant-based). Try serving them alongside a bowl of fresh berries or a creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream for an at-home dessert that feels extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies high on a vintage plate and tie them with a ribbon for a sweet gift, or crumble them over ice cream sundaes as an irresistible topping. You can even make cookie sandwiches: spread a swipe of jam, Nutella, or more peanut butter between two cookies for a playful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store your Easy Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay wonderfully soft for up to five days — that is, if they aren’t devoured sooner!

Freezing

To make life even easier, you can freeze the cookies after baking or freeze unbaked dough balls for future cravings. Simply freeze baked cookies in a zip-top bag for up to three months. For unbaked dough, roll into balls, flash freeze, and then bake straight from the freezer (adding just a minute or two to the baking time).

Reheating

Want to enjoy your Easy Peanut Butter Cookies warm? Pop them in a preheated 300°F oven for 3-4 minutes or microwave a single cookie for about 10 seconds to bring back that just-baked coziness.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Peanut Butter Cookies with natural peanut butter?

Yes! Natural peanut butter (the kind with just peanuts and salt) works deliciously, though your dough may be slightly more delicate. Give it a good stir before measuring and be aware that the cookies may spread a bit more.

What’s the best way to make these cookies dairy-free?

Good news — the recipe as written is naturally dairy-free! Just check that your peanut butter and vanilla extract contain no hidden dairy ingredients, and you’re set.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely! This recipe is a breeze to double or even triple. Just be sure to bake in batches and keep an eye on the cookies so they don’t over-bake.

Why use a crisscross pattern with a fork?

The crisscross pattern flattens the dough so it bakes evenly, and it also gives that classic old-fashioned look that signals a true peanut butter cookie.

How do I make crunchy Easy Peanut Butter Cookies instead of chewy ones?

For extra crunch, switch to chunky peanut butter or fold in a few tablespoons of chopped roasted peanuts. Bake on the longer end of the suggested time range until the edges are deeply golden.

Final Thoughts

Every cookie tin deserves an easy, go-to treat, and these Easy Peanut Butter Cookies fit the bill every time. Whether you’re baking for a party, a lunchbox, or a quiet night at home, this recipe is sure to bring cozy, peanutty joy. Go ahead, preheat your oven and enjoy a batch — you won’t regret it!

Easy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

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4.7 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 18 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are a quick and simple treat that require just a handful of ingredients. With a perfectly soft and chewy texture, these gluten-free cookies are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon baking soda
pinch of salt

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt until well combined and smooth.
Form dough: Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll into a ball. Place on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Flatten and bake: Flatten each ball slightly with a fork, making a crisscross pattern. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For a crunchy texture, use chunky peanut butter or add chopped peanuts.
These cookies are naturally gluten-free and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American