Ah, the sweet allure of peanut butter cookies! There’s something so comforting and delightful about these little treats that makes them a perennial favorite. Whether it’s the creamy richness of peanut butter paired with the perfect crunch or the way they fill the kitchen with their irresistible aroma as they bake, these cookies have a way of making any day just a little bit brighter. Today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that’s very close to my heart: My Favorite Peanut Butter Cookies. This recipe is a straightforward, no-fuss path to cookie perfection, ideal for both seasoned bakers and newcomers to the kitchen. So, let’s get started and create some magic together!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup butter (softened to room temperature)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky, based on your preference)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups sifted all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your oven is at the perfect temperature by the time your cookies are ready to go in.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, blend the butter, peanut butter, sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This base mixture is where all the flavor starts, so make sure everything is well combined.
- Sift and Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring until everything is nicely incorporated. You’re looking for a uniform dough with no dry spots.
- Shape and Decorate: Scoop out tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into balls. To add a classic touch, gently press each ball with a fork that’s been dipped in either sugar or flour, creating a crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake to Perfection: Place your cookie dough balls on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving some space between each for spreading. Slide them into your preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn a golden brown. The key here is to watch them closely—you want them perfectly baked, not overdone.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once out of the oven, let the cookies sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This little rest allows them to set up a bit, making them easier to move. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This is the hard part—waiting to dig in!
There you have it, a simple yet utterly delicious recipe for my favorite peanut butter cookies. They’re perfect for sharing, though you might be tempted to keep them all to yourself. Whether it’s for a cozy night in, a festive gathering, or just because, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and a touch of sweetness to any occasion. Happy baking!