If you’re a fan of sweet and nutty flavors, then you’re going to love this classic Peanut Butter Cookies recipe! These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with the irresistible taste of peanut butter. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to satisfy. Join us as we explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this beloved dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone baking mat.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the ingredients together until smooth and well combined.
3. Add the Dry Ingredients:
- Add the baking soda and pinch of salt to the peanut butter mixture.
- Mix until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated into the dough.
4. Form the Cookie Dough Balls:
- Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion out the cookie dough.
- Roll each portion of dough into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Use a fork to gently flatten each cookie and create a crisscross pattern on top.
5. Bake the Cookies:
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden brown.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Enjoy:
- Once the cookies are completely cooled, serve and enjoy! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Chunky Peanut Butter: For extra texture, use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Add-Ins: Mix in your favorite add-ins such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or peanut butter chips for even more flavor and texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use certified gluten-free oats and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Low-Carb Sweeteners: Substitute granulated sugar with keto-friendly sweeteners such as erythritol, monk fruit sweetener, or stevia.
- Almond Flour: Replace the granulated sugar with almond flour to reduce the carb content and make these cookies suitable for a keto diet.
Low-Carb Version:
- Almond Butter: Swap the peanut butter for almond butter, which has a lower carb content and is suitable for low-carb diets like keto.
- Coconut Flour: Use coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour to reduce the carb content of the cookies while adding a hint of coconut flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter in place of creamy peanut butter. Just make sure to stir the natural peanut butter well before measuring it out for the recipe.
2. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Simply portion out the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
3. Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, you can make these cookies without eggs by using a flax egg or chia egg as a substitute. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding it to the recipe.
These Peanut Butter Cookies are a timeless classic that never fails to delight. With just a handful of simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies in no time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to satisfy. So why wait? Preheat your oven, grab your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the irresistible taste of homemade Peanut Butter Cookies!
