Classic Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These classic soft peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat known for their rich, nutty flavor and tender texture. With simple ingredients and an easy method, they’re perfect for satisfying your cookie cravings any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (use smooth peanut butter for best results)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark brown sugar can be used)
• 2 large eggs (make sure they are at room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for even baking.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Cream them together until smooth and well blended.
3. Step 3: Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
5. Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft.
6. Step 6: Portion the dough using a cookie scoop or tablespoon onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them apart to allow spreading.
7. Step 7: Lightly press the top of each cookie dough ball with the tines of a fork to create a classic crisscross pattern.
8. Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chopped peanuts to the dough before baking.
• Using room temperature eggs helps the dough combine more easily and results in a better texture.
• If you prefer crunchier cookies, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.
• Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and added nutrition.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a sealed container for up to three months. To reheat, let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave for about 10 seconds to restore softness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter will work and add a bit of texture, but creamy peanut butter helps achieve the soft, smooth texture these classic cookies are known for.

Why are my peanut butter cookies dry or crumbly?

This usually happens if the dough is overmixed or the cookies are baked too long. Be sure to mix just until combined and watch the baking time carefully to keep them soft and tender.

Classic Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 54 reviews

These Classic Soft Peanut Butter Cookies are delightfully tender with a rich peanut butter flavor and a perfectly sweet balance. Soft in texture with a signature crisscross pattern, they are easy to make and bake to golden perfection for an irresistible treat perfect for any occasion.

• Author: lina
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: 24 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Wet Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (use smooth peanut butter for best results)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark brown sugar can be used)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Cream them together thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
5. Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a soft texture in the cookies.
6. Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each scoop for spreading.
7. Flatten and Decorate: Use the tines of a fork to lightly press down on each cookie scoop, creating a classic crisscross pattern on top.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating perfect doneness.
9. Cool and Enjoy: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Notes

• Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Do not overmix the dough to keep cookies soft and tender.
• Use parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.
• Cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking.
• Store leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.

Keywords: classic peanut butter cookies, soft peanut butter cookies, easy peanut butter cookies, homemade peanut butter cookies, peanut butter dessert