Introduction

These soft peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat with a rich, creamy texture and just the right amount of sweetness. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert, they bake up tender and melt-in-your-mouth every time.

The image shows a close-up of light brown peanut butter cookies with a crisscross fork pattern pressed into their round tops. Each cookie has a slightly rough, crumbly texture with visible small cracks. The cookies are stacked and scattered on a flat surface with a white marbled texture in the background. The warm color of the cookies contrasts softly with the cool white marble underneath, making the cookies look fresh and soft. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix until fully combined.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6: Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.
Step 7: Flatten each cookie slightly by pressing with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
Step 8: Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look just barely done.
Step 9: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Serve warm for a cozy snack, ideally with a glass of milk.

Tips & Variations

Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture; natural or chunky peanut butter may result in crumbly cookies.
Do not overbake—the cookies continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet after removal from the oven.
Press a small pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a gourmet flavor enhancement.
Use a cookie scoop to ensure evenly sized cookies and consistent baking results.
For extra softness, store cookies with a slice of bread in an airtight container to maintain moisture.

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra soft, add a slice of bread to the container. Reheat gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds if you prefer warm cookies.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a stack of peanut butter cookies with a crisscross pattern on top, created by pressing with a fork. The cookies have a warm golden-brown color with a slightly rough texture. They rest on a white plate on a white marbled surface in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?

Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may make the cookies more crumbly due to its lower fat content and texture. For best results and softness, creamy peanut butter is recommended.

How can I tell when the cookies are perfectly baked?

Look for edges that are set and lightly golden while the centers still appear slightly soft and undercooked. The cookies will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.