Irresistibly Soft Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe Everyone Will Love

Baking delectable soft peanut butter cookies brings pure joy to any kitchen.

These melt-in-your-mouth soft peanut butter cookie recipe delights promise a sweet escape from ordinary treats.

Crafted with simple ingredients, the cookies capture childhood memories in every bite.

Rich, creamy peanut butter creates a velvety texture that makes these cookies irresistible.

Each golden-brown morsel offers a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty flavor.

Tender and packed with comfort, they’re ideal for afternoon snacks or sharing with loved ones.

Fun Add-Ins for Peanut Butter Cookies

• Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegan Adaptation: Swap egg with flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based peanut butter without additives.
• Low-Sugar Option: Substitute granulated and brown sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining cookie texture.
• Protein-Packed Variation: Mix in protein powder or chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts to increase protein content and add extra crunch to the cookies.

Ways to Serve Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

• Sweet Party Platter: Arrange cookies on a decorative tray with chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, and fresh strawberries for a delightful dessert spread.
• Milk and Cookies Combo: Serve warm cookies alongside cold glasses of milk, creating a classic comfort food experience that brings nostalgic joy to everyone.
• Ice Cream Sandwich Twist: Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cooled peanut butter cookies for an indulgent summer treat that melts in your mouth.
• Afternoon Tea Companion: Pair these soft cookies with herbal tea or coffee, perfect for a relaxing break that satisfies sweet cravings with minimal effort.

Peanut Butter Cookie Storage Tips

• Store cookies in an airtight container lined with parchment paper. Keep fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap, place in freezer-safe bag. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before enjoying.
• Warm cookies on microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds. Check temperature to prevent overcooking and maintain soft texture.
• Preheat oven to 275°F. Place cookies on baking sheet, warm for 3-5 minutes. Restores crisp edges and soft center without drying out.

FAQs

• Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can substitute creamy with crunchy peanut butter. The cookies will have extra texture and nutty bits throughout.

• How do I know if the dough is mixed properly?

The dough should look smooth and hold together without being too sticky. If it feels too wet, add a little more flour; if too dry, add a small amount of egg or milk.

• Why do I need to flatten the cookies with a fork?

Flattening creates the classic crosshatch pattern and helps cookies bake evenly. It also prevents the cookies from becoming too thick and ensures a consistent texture.

• Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that’s designed for baking to maintain the cookie’s texture.

Ultra-Soft Peanut Butter Cookies for Every Day

• Whip Up Quickly: These peanut butter cookies come together in just a few simple steps, making them perfect for spontaneous baking sessions or sudden sweet cravings.
• Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Loved by both kids and adults, these soft cookies offer a classic flavor that brings everyone together around the dessert table with their irresistible peanut butter goodness.
• Minimal Ingredients Needed: With basic pantry staples like peanut butter, sugar, and flour, you can create delicious homemade cookies without making a special trip to the grocery store.
• Beginner Baker Friendly: The straightforward recipe requires no fancy techniques, making it an excellent choice for novice bakers wanting to build confidence in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

• Peanut Butter: A creamy base that provides rich flavor and soft texture to the cookies.
• Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds moisture to the dough.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall sweetness and depth of flavor.

• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and contribute to the cookies' soft, chewy texture.

• All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure and helps hold the cookie together.
• Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and creates a light, soft texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Instructions for Perfectly Tender Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Crank up your oven to a cozy 350°F and get ready for some baking magic.

Step 2: Create the Cookie Base

• Creamy peanut butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Vanilla extract

Whisk everything together until the mixture becomes silky smooth and blended perfectly.

Step 3: Build the Cookie Dough

• Baking soda
• Salt
• All-purpose flour

Stir the mixture until it transforms into a beautiful, consistent dough that’s ready to become cookies.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

Roll the dough into adorable little balls, each about the size of a ping pong ball.

Place them on a baking sheet with some breathing room between each cookie.

Take a fork and gently press down on each ball, creating those classic crisscross patterns that make peanut butter cookies so recognizable.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven.

Let the cookies bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown.

Your kitchen will start smelling absolutely incredible!

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool down.

This helps them set and become that perfect soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Once they’re ready, grab a glass of milk and dive into cookie paradise!

Tips for Chewy, Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

• Warm peanut butter slightly at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother cookie texture.
• Use fresh, soft brown sugar and granulated sugar for better cookie binding and caramelization.
• Create classic crosshatch pattern by pressing fork gently and evenly to ensure uniform cookie shape.
• Watch cookies closely around 10-minute mark to maintain soft, chewy center and prevent dry edges.
• Keep cookies in airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to preserve moisture and freshness.

Soft Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe

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4.7 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 24 1x

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Description

Indulgent peanut butter cookies melt hearts with their irresistible charm, blending classic comfort and rich flavor. Crisp edges and tender centers promise a delightful experience you’ll savor down to the last crumbly bite.

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Ingredients

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Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

Sweeteners:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar

Flavor Enhancers and Leavening:

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven at 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for optimal cookie release.
2. Combine creamy peanut butter with both sugars in a large mixing bowl, creating a smooth and uniform base.
3. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract into the mixture, whisking until the ingredients are fully integrated and slightly fluffy.
4. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients – flour, baking soda, and salt – mixing until a cohesive dough forms without overmixing.
5. Using clean hands, gently shape the dough into uniform spheres approximately one inch in diameter.
6. Place cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving sufficient space between each for spreading.
7. Use a fork’s tines to create a classic crisscross pattern, gently pressing down to flatten each cookie slightly.
8. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for light golden edges as a doneness indicator.
9. Remove from oven and allow cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 3-4 minutes to firm up.
10. Transfer cookies to a wire cooling rack, letting them cool completely to achieve the ideal soft, tender texture.

Notes

• Swap regular flour with gluten-free flour blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals, ensuring the same soft texture.
• Reduce sugar by 25% for a less sweet version, which works perfectly for those watching sugar intake.
• Use natural unsweetened peanut butter to control added sugars and create a more wholesome cookie experience.
• For a protein boost, add a scoop of unflavored protein powder without changing the cookie’s delicate consistency.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Desserts, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 24
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 65 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 13 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 15 mg