If you have a soft spot for cookies that melt in your mouth and deliver that rich, nutty flavor, then this Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These cookies are perfectly tender with just the right touch of sweetness and a classic peanut buttery punch that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe strikes the ideal balance of easy preparation and delicious results, leaving you with warm, comforting cookies that will feel like a big hug with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe relies on a handful of simple, pantry-staple ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the perfect cookie texture and flavor. From creamy peanut butter for that signature taste to just the right leavening agents that give the cookies their soft rise, these ingredients come together effortlessly to make magic in your oven.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds rich flavor and the creamy base that keeps these cookies tender.
- Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): The star ingredient delivering that classic peanut flavor and moist texture.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Balances sweetness and helps with slight crispness on the edges.
- Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note for depth of flavor.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together and adds richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors and adds a warm aroma.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): Provides structure without weighing the cookies down.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a gentle lift, helping the cookies stay soft yet puffed.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works with the brown sugar to create the perfect crumb.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and boosts the peanut butter’s flavor.
How to Make Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preparation
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This little step ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the pan without sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and beautifully blended. This process aerates the dough, helping your cookies stay soft and tender after baking.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract fully. These ingredients add moisture and richness, plus that irresistible aroma that starts tempting your taste buds early on.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet peanut butter mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Overmixing here can make the cookies tough, so take it slow.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each ball to give them room to spread without merging into one cookie giant.
Step 6: The Classic Fork Press
Use a fork to press each dough ball down, creating a charming crisscross pattern. This step not only flattens the dough for even baking but also adds the iconic peanut butter cookie look.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn lightly golden, signaling that the cookies are perfectly baked yet soft in the middle. Once out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This resting time helps set their soft texture without drying them out.
How to Serve Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are delightful on their own, an extra sprinkle of flaky sea salt before baking or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate after they cool can elevate the flavor profile beautifully. Chopped peanuts scattered on top add a lovely crunch that contrasts the softness inside.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe with a glass of cold milk is the ultimate classic combo, but don’t stop there. A hot cup of coffee or a creamy vanilla ice cream scoop on the side turns this simple cookie into a decadent treat worth savoring.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, stack the cookies with layers of chocolate ganache or peanut butter frosting for mini sandwich cookies. You can also serve them in a cookie jar with ramekins of peanut butter and chocolate sauce for guests to dip and enjoy. These ideas add an element of fun and make your cookie presentation the highlight of any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Soft Peanut Butter Cookies keep beautifully for up to a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keep them away from heat or direct sunlight to maintain their soft texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
If you want to stock up, these cookies freeze like a dream. Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. When sealed properly, they can last up to 3 months without losing moisture or flavor.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven softness, warm your cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. This reawakens their softness and aroma, making each bite just as delightful as the first time.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add some extra texture to your Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe, giving each bite a little surprise crunch that is equally delightful.
What if I don’t have brown sugar? Can I use all granulated sugar?
You can substitute all granulated sugar, but keep in mind that brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor that enhances the softness and richness of these cookies. If you use all granulated, your cookies might be slightly less chewy.
Why are my peanut butter cookies dry instead of soft?
Dry cookies usually result from overbaking or adding too much flour. Make sure to bake them just until the edges turn lightly golden and measure your flour accurately by spooning it into your cup and leveling it off.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Swap the butter for a vegan butter alternative and replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water, mixed and rested). This will keep the cookie texture soft and delicious.
How can I make these cookies gluten free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add a pinch to maintain structure and keep your Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe soft and tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a freshly baked batch of Soft Peanut Butter Cookies, and this recipe nails it every time. It’s straightforward, rewarding, and perfect for sharing or savoring on your own. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe a try, whether you’re a baking beginner or a seasoned pro. Once you taste these soft, chewy bites of peanut buttery goodness, I’m confident they’ll become a beloved staple in your cookie repertoire.
Print
Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously soft and chewy peanut butter cookies made with creamy peanut butter, a blend of sugars, and a hint of vanilla. These classic cookies are easy to prepare and bake to perfection, delivering a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Wet 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
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a mixer or whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy, indicating well-incorporated ingredients.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, mixing thoroughly until completely combined to add moisture and flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape Dough: Using a tablespoon, scoop dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart to allow spreading during baking.
- Flatten Dough: Press each dough ball with a fork in a crisscross pattern, slightly flattening them for the classic peanut butter cookie appearance and even baking.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden, ensuring a soft center and crisp edges.
- Cool Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For extra texture, consider adding chopped peanuts or chocolate chips to the dough.
- Do not overbake to maintain softness; cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- If your dough is too sticky, chill it for 15-20 minutes before scooping.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- You can freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen, adding an additional 1-2 minutes to baking time.
