Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat with a perfectly chewy texture and that unmistakable nutty flavor. The soft, golden dough with its crisscross fork pattern makes them as fun to bake as they are to eat. The rich peanut butter gives these cookies a comforting taste that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
I love making these cookies whenever I need a quick dessert that everyone will enjoy. They’re simple to mix up with just a few ingredients, and the smell that fills the kitchen while baking is absolutely irresistible. Plus, I always find it fun pressing the dough with a fork—it’s like adding a little signature to each cookie.
My favorite way to enjoy peanut butter cookies is fresh out of the oven, still slightly warm and soft. They go perfectly with a cold glass of milk or even just on their own as a little pick-me-up during the day. These cookies always bring back memories of cozy afternoons spent baking with family and friends, making them a timeless treat in my kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter works best here for a smooth, tender cookie. If you prefer a little crunch, try chunky peanut butter—it adds a nice texture. For allergies, sunflower seed butter is a good nut-free swap.
Sugar: Granulated sugar gives these cookies their classic sweetness and slight crispness on the outside. You can swap half the sugar for brown sugar if you want a chewier cookie with a hint of caramel flavor.
Egg: The egg binds everything and helps the cookie hold its shape. For a vegan option, try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) but note it may change the texture slightly.
Baking Soda: This is key for a bit of lift and lightness in the cookie. Don’t skip it, or your cookies might turn out too dense.
How to Get That Classic Crisscross Fork Pattern on Your Cookies?
This pattern is not just decorative—it helps flatten the dough so cookies bake evenly.
- After rolling your dough into balls, lightly press down with a fork once.
- Rotate the fork 90 degrees and press down again, creating the crosshatch pattern.
- Don’t press too hard or cookies will be too thin and crisp.
- This step makes your cookies look homemade and charming.
It’s simple, but an easy way to make your peanut butter cookies look exactly like the classic ones we all love!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat, rimmed tray that helps bake cookies evenly without spilling.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – stops cookies from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Mixing bowl – where you’ll combine all your ingredients quickly and smoothly.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – for portioning dough into even-sized balls.
- Fork – to press the classic crisscross pattern on each cookie before baking.
- Wire cooling rack – lets cookies cool evenly and keep their texture crisp.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chocolate chips for extra sweetness and melty bites I love on cozy nights.
- Mix in chopped peanuts to add crunch and punch up the peanut flavor.
- Stir in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to warm up the taste for fall baking.
- Swap half the peanut butter for almond butter to change the nutty flavor gently.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt (if using unsalted peanut butter)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-12 minutes to bake. Add a few more minutes for cooling before enjoying your delicious cookies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Baking Area:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, baking soda, vanilla extract (if using), and salt. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
3. Shape the Cookies:
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
4. Add the Classic Fork Pattern:
Using a fork, gently press down on each dough ball to flatten slightly and create the traditional crisscross pattern. This helps the cookies bake evenly and looks fun!
5. Bake the Cookies:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The cookies should have set edges and be lightly golden on top.
6. Cool and Enjoy:
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now they’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Creamy Peanut Butter?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to stir it well before measuring so the oil is evenly mixed in. Natural peanut butter may make the cookies a bit denser but the flavor will be delicious.
How Should I Store Leftover Peanut Butter Cookies?
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before eating.
Can I Make These Cookies Gluten-Free?
This particular recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t use flour. Just double-check your baking soda and other ingredients are gluten-free for full confidence.
What Can I Use Instead of an Egg?
For an egg substitute, try a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water), but the texture might be slightly different—more cake-like but still tasty!