Ultimate Guide: Peanut Butter Cookies Recipes & Storage Tips

There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a warm, freshly baked peanut butter cookie. These delightful treats have been a staple in American households for generations, bringing a sense of nostalgia with every bite. The rich, nutty flavor paired with a soft, chewy texture makes them irresistible to cookie lovers of all ages.

Did you know the first peanut butter cookie recipe was published in the early 1900s? Since then, countless variations have emerged, each with its own unique twist. Whether you’re a fan of the classic crisscross pattern or prefer adding chocolate chips for an extra indulgence, there’s a peanut butter cookie recipe out there for everyone.

Ingredients

Here’s a detailed list of ingredients you’ll need to create these delicious peanut butter cookies. Make sure to have everything prepped before you start the baking process:

• 1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter: Use high-quality creamy peanut butter for the best texture and taste.
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter: Ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Adds the perfect amount of sweetness.
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar: Packed, providing a deeper flavor and moisture.
• 1 large egg: At room temperature.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the cookie’s flavor.
• 1 and 1/4 cups (160g) all-purpose flour: Measure correctly to avoid overly dense cookies.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cookies rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds to the cookies’ rise and texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.

Before starting, I like to double-check I have all the ingredients measured out and ready to go. This step keeps the baking process smooth and ensures that nothing crucial is missed.

Equipment

To ensure your peanut butter cookies turn out perfectly every time, having the right equipment on hand is essential. Here’s a list of the key tools you’ll need:

1. Mixing Bowls: Use one large bowl for combining the wet ingredients and another medium bowl for the dry ingredients.
2. Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer will help cream the peanut butter and sugars together until they’re fluffy.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is crucial in baking, so have both dry and liquid measuring tools ready.
4. Rubber Spatula: Ideal for scraping down the sides of mixing bowls to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
5. Baking Sheet(s): Non-stick or lined with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
6. Cookie Scoop: Helps portion the dough evenly, ensuring all cookies are the same size for uniform baking.
7. Fork: Essential for creating the classic crisscross pattern on top of each cookie.
8. Cooling Rack: Allows the cookies to cool evenly without becoming soggy on the bottom.

Keep these tools within reach to streamline your baking process and help create the perfect batch of peanut butter cookies.

Directions

Let’s get started on making these delicious peanut butter cookies. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. Gather all ingredients and tools to have them ready.

Mixing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1/2 cup of unsalted butter at room temperature.
2. Use an electric mixer to cream the butter and peanut butter together until smooth, about 2 minutes.
3. Add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Mix until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix on low speed until combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Shaping the Cookies

1. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to form 1-inch balls of dough.
2. Place dough balls onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
3. Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on the top.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
5. Remove from the oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
6. Transfer cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these warm, freshly baked peanut butter cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage.

Pro Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

Achieving the perfect peanut butter cookies every time requires a combination of proper technique and a few insider secrets that I have mastered over the years. Here are my top tips to ensure your cookies come out just right:

Choose the Right Peanut Butter

Use a high-quality, creamy peanut butter. Avoid the natural varieties that separate as they can alter the texture of your dough. I always opt for a smooth, commercially produced peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for consistent results.

Measure Ingredients Accurately

Precision in measurement is key. Use a kitchen scale if possible. For dry ingredients, use the scoop and level method:

1. Flour: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level off with a knife.
2. Sugar: Scoop directly from the container and level off with a knife.
3. Peanut Butter: Use a flexible spatula to pack the measuring cup and level off.

Keep Ingredients at Room Temperature

Ensure all ingredients (eggs, butter, and peanut butter) are at room temperature. This will help them mix more uniformly and create a better texture. Set them out about 30 minutes before you begin baking.

Chill the Dough

Rest the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before shaping and baking. Chilling the dough prevents spreading and helps maintain the cookies’ shape during baking.

Use Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats

Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This not only prevents sticking but also helps bake the cookies evenly and makes clean-up a breeze.

Create a Consistent Size

Use a cookie scoop to ensure each cookie is the same size. This promotes even baking and makes for a uniform appearance.

Classic Crisscross Pattern

For that traditional peanut butter cookie look, gently press the dough balls with a fork dipped in sugar, creating a crisscross pattern. This flattens them slightly and adds a delightful texture on top.

Monitor Baking Time

Bake cookies just until the edges are set and the bottoms are lightly browned. They should still look slightly underbaked in the center when you remove them from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes; they’ll continue to cook from residual heat, ensuring a soft and chewy center.

Proper Storage

Once cooled, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. To maintain their softness, add a slice of bread to the container. The cookies will absorb the moisture from the bread, keeping them fresh longer.

Variations

Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

For the timeless favorite start with a simple yet profound recipe that captures the essence of peanut butter cookies.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Mix peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract in a bowl until well combined.
3. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Flatten with a fork, making a crisscross pattern.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden.
6. Let cool before transferring to a wire rack.

Chewy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

For those who can’t resist a touch of chocolate with their peanut butter, this variation adds chocolate chips for an extra treat.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Beat the butter and sugars together until creamy.
3. Add peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Drop tablespoon-sized balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
9. Cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies

For a dairy-free and egg-free twist, these vegan cookies ensure everyone can enjoy.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup natural peanut butter
• 1 cup coconut sugar
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup flour (all-purpose or gluten-free blend)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, coconut sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until well combined.
5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a lined baking sheet.
6. Flatten with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes.
8. Let cool before transferring to a wire rack.

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

For those with gluten sensitivities, this recipe provides delicious, fluffy cookies without the gluten.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix peanut butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and baking soda in a bowl.
3. Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Flatten with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
6. Cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Peanut Butter Banana Cookies

Adding banana gives these cookies a unique flavor and a softer texture.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 medium ripe banana (mashed)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Beat butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until creamy.
3. Mix in egg, vanilla extract, and mashed banana.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until combined.
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls onto a lined baking sheet.
7. Flatten lightly with a fork.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
9. Cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Store Peanut Butter Cookies

Storing peanut butter cookies properly ensures they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Here are the steps I follow to store my peanut butter cookies:

Storage at Room Temperature

1. Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This prevents condensation which can make cookies soggy.
2. Layering: Place the cookies in an airtight container. If you need to stack the cookies, separate each layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
3. Location: Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Refrigeration

1. Cooling: Ensure the cookies are completely cool before refrigerating.
2. Airtight Container: Use an airtight container to keep moisture out.
3. Layering: Place parchment paper between each layer to avoid sticking.
4. Shelf Life: Stored this way, the cookies will stay fresh for up to one week.
5. Initial Freeze: Lay the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. This step ensures the cookies won’t stick together later.
6. Packaging: Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
7. Labeling: Label the container with the date. Peanut butter cookies can be frozen for up to three months.
8. Thawing: When ready to eat, thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 15 minutes.

Proper storage keeps your peanut butter cookies fresh and ready to enjoy at any time.

Conclusion

Peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat that never fail to bring comfort and joy. With the right ingredients and equipment, anyone can bake these delicious cookies to perfection. Remember to store them properly to keep that fresh-baked goodness for longer. Whether you choose to keep them at room temperature, refrigerate, or freeze, the key is in the details to maintain their delightful taste and texture. So go ahead and enjoy your homemade peanut butter cookies whenever the craving hits. Happy baking!