Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Name: Soft Peanut Butter Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter; 1 cup sugar; 1 egg; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp salt

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

These soft and chewy peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat that melts in your mouth. Perfectly balanced with the rich flavor of peanut butter and a hint of sweetness, these cookies come together quickly for an easy and satisfying dessert. Ideal for family gatherings or a cozy night in, they're sure to please cookie lovers of all ages.

Created by

Rowan Tate

Last updated on 2025-12-11T15:18:22.838Z

This recipe has been passed down through generations, leaving a trail of happy faces and empty cookie jars.

A Classic Treat with a Twist

Peanut butter cookies have long been a cherished favorite among cookie enthusiasts. The rich, nutty flavor paired with a hint of sweetness creates an irresistible combination that appeals to both children and adults. Our soft peanut butter cookies elevate this classic treat by ensuring a perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a glass of milk, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.

What sets this recipe apart is the simplicity and speed at which these cookies can be made. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can have freshly baked cookies ready to serve in under 20 minutes. This makes them an excellent choice for unexpected guests, family gatherings, or simply as a comforting treat for yourself after a long day.

Perfect for Any Occasion

The versatility of soft peanut butter cookies is one of their most appealing qualities. They are ideal for a variety of occasions, from casual family gatherings to festive holiday celebrations. With their inviting aroma and delightful taste, these cookies create a warm and welcoming atmosphere wherever they are served.

These cookies also make great gifts. Whether presented in a decorative tin or bagged with a ribbon, they convey a sense of thoughtfulness and care. Imagine surprising a friend or loved one with a batch of homemade cookies; it's a heartfelt gesture that is often remembered long after the treats are gone.

Tips for the Perfect Cookie

To ensure your peanut butter cookies come out perfectly every time, it’s important to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve precise measurements, particularly for ingredients like sugar and flour. Also, ensure your peanut butter is well-mixed and free from separation for the best flavor and texture.

Don’t be tempted to overbake these cookies! They should be slightly soft in the middle when you take them out of the oven, as they will continue to cook while cooling on the baking sheet. For that extra touch, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Cookies

1 cup peanut butter
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth.

Shape Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a lined baking sheet.

Flatten the Dough

Using a fork, gently press down each ball to flatten slightly and create a crisscross pattern.

Bake

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden. Remove from oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk!

Nutritional Information

These soft peanut butter cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also offer a balance of nutrients. Peanut butter is an excellent source of protein and healthy fats, making these cookies a more wholesome treat compared to many traditional dessert options. Each cookie provides a small boost of energy, perfect for those mid-afternoon slumps.

While it’s always best to enjoy sweets in moderation, incorporating nut-based ingredients like peanut butter can add nutritional value. These cookies can fit into various diets when consumed mindfully, allowing for a guilt-free pleasure that won’t derail your healthy eating habits.

Storing Your Cookies

Storing your peanut butter cookies properly will help them maintain their soft and chewy texture. After they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for up to a week, making them perfect for meal prep or weekly snacks.

If you want to keep the cookies for an extended period, consider freezing them. Simply layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for several months, ensuring that you always have a delightful treat on hand for whenever the craving strikes. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or gently warm them in the microwave.

Customizing Your Cookies

One of the greatest joys of baking is the ability to customize recipes to your liking. For these soft peanut butter cookies, you can easily adapt the base recipe to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or dried fruit for a unique twist. Each variation offers an exciting take on the traditional peanut butter cookie.

If you're looking for a little extra flair, consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkling them with sea salt before baking. These small changes can elevate the experience and impress your family and friends with your baking creativity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but natural peanut butter can alter the texture slightly.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.