Perfect 5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

introduction

These easy peanut butter cookies are soft, chewy, and full of peanut butter flavor. The recipe uses just five simple pantry ingredients and requires no flour or butter, making it quick, easy, and perfect for any skill level.

why make this recipe

This recipe is a go-to for anyone needing a fast, delicious cookie fix with minimal effort. No fancy tools or ingredients are required, just what you have in your kitchen. It’s perfect for new bakers, busy families, or anyone who loves peanut butter.

how to make Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Ingredients :

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus more for rolling, optional)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup creamy full-fat peanut butter (not natural)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. With an electric mixer, blend all the ingredients until the dough is smooth and thick.
3. Scoop out dough (about 1 & 1/4-inch balls), knead, and roll in your hands until they are soft and smooth. Optionally, roll in granulated sugar.
4. Place dough balls on the baking sheet, 2 inches apart.
5. Press down each ball with a fork in a criss-cross pattern. Dip the fork in sugar to keep it from sticking.
6. Bake for about 10 minutes until the tops are light brown and the cookies are about 3 inches wide. They will still be a bit soft in the center.
7. Let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then move to a wire rack to cool completely.

how to serve Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Serve fresh with a glass of cold milk, as an after-school treat, a snack, or dessert. They’re great for sharing or to bring to parties and gatherings.

how to store Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Let cookies cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the dough balls for up to 2 months thaw and bake when needed.

tips to make Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

• Use only creamy full-fat peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy), not natural peanut butter.
• Don’t skip the fork marks. They help the cookies bake evenly.
• Don’t overbake. Cookies will still be soft when you take them out they firm up as they cool.
• Knead the dough balls so they are soft and smooth.

variation

You can add chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or a sprinkle of salt on top. Make them peanut butter blossom cookies by pressing a chocolate kiss on top after baking.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use natural peanut butter?
No, natural peanut butter makes cookies too oily and flat.

Q2: Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze raw dough balls for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a couple minutes to the baking time.

Q3: Can I use a sugar substitute?
Some people use stevia or other substitutes, but results may vary.

Q4: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture will be different and possibly a bit crumblier.

Q5: Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Yes! Chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or nuts all work well.

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