Soft Peanut Butter Cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style. With their chewy texture and rich, nutty flavor, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday treat, or just a snack to satisfy your sweet tooth. This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it easy for even novice bakers to achieve delicious results. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe for Soft Peanut Butter Cookies.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
- Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until creamy and smooth.
- Add the Sugars: Add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar to the butter. Continue to beat on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate the Peanut Butter, Egg, and Vanilla
- Add the Peanut Butter: Beat in the creamy peanut butter until well combined.
- Add the Egg and Vanilla: Add the large egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Beat until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and makes it easier to handle.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
- Form the Dough Balls: Use a cookie scoop or your hands to form the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten the Cookies: Using a fork, gently press down on each dough ball to create a crisscross pattern on the top. This also helps flatten the cookies slightly.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may still look slightly underdone, but they will continue to set as they cool.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Enjoy your Soft Peanut Butter Cookies with a glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee!
Cooking Notes
- Butter: Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing and a smooth texture.
- Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best for a smooth and soft cookie. Avoid using natural peanut butter as it can affect the texture of the cookies.
- Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, resulting in a thicker, chewier cookie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use chunky peanut butter? A: Yes, you can use chunky peanut butter if you prefer some extra texture in your cookies.
Q: How should I store these cookies? A: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins? A: Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for added flavor and texture.
Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to let the dough come to room temperature slightly before baking.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, substitute the flour with almond flour or coconut flour, and use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia. Ensure the peanut butter and other ingredients are also low in carbohydrates.
Soft Peanut Butter Cookies are a timeless classic that are sure to bring joy to anyone who tastes them. With their rich, nutty flavor and soft, chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a party, or just a simple treat at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
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