If you’re craving a treat that perfectly balances softness with a chewy, melt-in-your-mouth texture, look no further than The BEST Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. These cookies are a heavenly combination of rich peanut butter flavor and a tender crumb that will keep you reaching for just one more. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a kitchen newbie, this recipe turns simple ingredients into irresistible cookies that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses a handful of staples that come together beautifully to create that signature soft and chewy texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the rich creaminess of peanut butter to the perfect balance of sugars that enhance both flavor and moisture.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Choose a good-quality peanut butter for the best rich and nutty base flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve a slight crisp on the cookie edges.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel undertone for chewiness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides a tender crumb and adds buttery richness.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients for that perfect soft dough consistency.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavors with a warm, aromatic hint.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise gently and keep their soft texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for structure while keeping the cookies tender.
How to Make The BEST Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which prevents sticking and ensures even baking. This prep sets you up for baking success!
Step 2: Cream Together Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter. Beat these together until smooth and creamy, creating a luscious base filled with sweet and nutty flavors.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated. These ingredients add moisture and depth, helping to bind the dough and infuse warmth into each bite.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk baking soda, salt, and all-purpose flour together in a separate bowl. Gradually add this dry mix into the wet ingredients, stirring just until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix — the gentlest touch keeps the cookies nice and tender.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Roll tablespoons of dough into balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This space allows the cookies room to spread as they bake to their perfect size.
Step 6: Create a Classic Pattern
Use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball, forming a charming crisscross pattern. It’s the signature look of peanut butter cookies and helps them bake evenly.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should be set while the centers stay slightly undercooked. This little trick ensures that soft, chewy texture everyone loves.
Step 8: Cool Before Enjoying
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period lets the cookies firm up just enough to handle without losing their soft charm.
How to Serve The BEST Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top right after baking to add a delightful contrast to the sweetness. You can also drizzle melted chocolate or sprinkle mini chocolate chips for an extra special touch.
Side Dishes
This cookie pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of milk for classic comfort. For an indulgent treat, enjoy it alongside vanilla ice cream or a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these peanut butter cookies stacked in a clear jar with a colorful ribbon for a charming homemade gift. Or use them to make a delightful cookie sandwich filled with chocolate or peanut butter spread for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Proper storage keeps the cookies soft and chewy, maintaining that signature texture you love.
Freezing
You can freeze the dough balls or the baked cookies. For dough, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Bake dough straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the time. Baked cookies can be frozen between layers of parchment paper in an airtight container.
Reheating
Warm your cookies in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked softness. They also refresh beautifully in a low oven for a few minutes, perfect before serving guests or enjoying an afternoon snack.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may affect the texture since it has more oil and less stabilizers. For the softest and chewiest results, a creamy, stable peanut butter is best.
Why are my peanut butter cookies hard instead of soft?
Overbaking is often the culprit. Make sure to take the cookies out when the edges are set but centers still look slightly undercooked. Also, do not overmix the dough, which can make them tough.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even white chocolate chunks all make fantastic additions without compromising the softness and chewiness.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies should have set edges and soft centers when you take them out. They will firm up as they cool, so it’s best not to wait until they look completely baked.
Is it necessary to use parchment paper when baking?
While not absolutely necessary, parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup super easy, helping your cookies bake evenly and come off the pan effortlessly.
Final Thoughts
You truly can’t go wrong with The BEST Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. Every bite brings that perfect blend of softness and chewiness wrapped in a rich peanut butter hug. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share the joy with family and friends — these cookies are guaranteed to become a beloved classic in your baking repertoire.
Print
The BEST Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 20 cookies 1x
Description
These soft and chewy peanut butter cookies are the perfect treat for peanut butter lovers, featuring a rich, creamy texture and a classic crisscross pattern on top. With a simple mix of pantry staples and an easy baking process, these cookies deliver a delightful balance of sweetness and chewiness in every bite.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring even incorporation of flavors.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamy mixture, mixing thoroughly until fully combined to create a cohesive dough base.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together baking soda, salt, and all-purpose flour. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms without overmixing.
- Shape Cookies: Roll tablespoons of the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Create Crisscross Pattern: Use a fork to press down on each dough ball, creating a classic crisscross pattern which also helps the cookies bake evenly and gives them their signature look.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until the cookie edges are set but the centers remain slightly undercooked, ensuring a soft and chewy texture after cooling.
- Cool: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, which helps maintain their chewy texture.
Notes
- For extra chewiness, do not overbake the cookies; removing them while centers are still slightly undercooked is key.
- You can substitute natural peanut butter, but the texture may vary slightly.
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature for easier mixing and better dough consistency.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
