Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Name: Easy Peanut Butter Cookies
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy); 1 cup sugar (granulated); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Isabella

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If you’re a peanut butter lover, these Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are a must-try! Soft, chewy, and incredibly simple to make, this classic cookie recipe requires just a few pantry staples and minimal time in the kitchen. With only four ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookies that will satisfy your sweet cravings in no time. Perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as an afternoon snack, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients:

1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, based on your preference)

1 cup sugar (granulated)

One large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that perfect golden color.

Mix the Ingredients:

In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.

Shape the Cookies:

Roll the mixture into small balls, about one tablespoon each. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use a fork to flatten each ball, creating a crisscross pattern on top.

Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be set but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Cool and Enjoy:

Once baked, 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. Enjoy your delicious homemade peanut butter cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

Serving Tips:

Pair with Milk or Coffee: These cookies are delightful when served with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or a hot cup of tea. The creamy peanut butter flavor pairs well with both.

Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or in a cookie jar. Adding a few chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate on top can elevate the presentation.

Ice Cream Sandwiches: For a fun twist, use two cookies to create ice cream sandwiches. Just add a scoop of your favorite ice cream between them!

Add Toppings: Consider sprinkling a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty flavor combination. Alternatively, you can add chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips into the cookie dough for extra texture.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will help maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Refrigeration: If you want them to last a little longer, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks. Just ensure they’re well-sealed to prevent them from drying out or absorbing any odors from the fridge.

Freezing: For longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Cookie Dough: If you want to bake fresh cookies whenever you crave them, consider freezing the cookie dough. Roll it into balls and freeze. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook the frozen dough balls directly from the freezer; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

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FAQs:

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter! However, be aware that natural peanut butter can be more runny than conventional varieties. This might affect the texture of the cookies slightly. If using natural peanut butter, you may need to adjust the amount of sugar or flour to achieve the right consistency.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when they are set around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Look for a slight golden color on the edges, and remember that underbaking them slightly will help keep them chewy.

Can I add other ingredients to the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can customize your peanut butter cookies by adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even oatmeal. Just make sure that the total volume of add-ins does not exceed the total volume of the other ingredients, or you may need to adjust the base recipe accordingly.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to keep them fresh!

Conclusion:

These Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are not only quick and simple to make but also incredibly satisfying to eat. With just four ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy fresh-baked cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone with a love for baking, this recipe is a fantastic choice that will impress everyone who takes a bite.

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