Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe – Easy and Delicious

There’s something so undeniably nostalgic about a batch of warm peanut butter cookies straight from the oven. The smell alone is enough to transport you back to childhood kitchens, where the clink of mixing bowls and the scent of rich, roasted peanuts signaled something wonderful was about to happen. These soft and chewy peanut butter cookies are exactly that kind of experience in every single bite.

What makes this particular recipe stand out is its delightful balance between soft, melt-in-your-mouth centers and lightly crisped edges. The cookie dough is simple and foolproof, made from everyday pantry staples. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just trying your hand at homemade cookies for the first time, this recipe is incredibly approachable. You won’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques. In fact, you don’t even need to chill the dough unless you want to, which makes this a quick bake when the cookie craving hits hard.

One of the best parts? These cookies are wildly versatile. You can dress them up with chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips for added texture and flavor, or leave them plain for a more classic take. They’re equally perfect for school lunchboxes, late-night snacks, or casual family get-togethers. I’ve even brought them to potlucks and work parties, and they always disappear before anything else.

I first made these cookies on a rainy Sunday afternoon when all I wanted was something cozy and sweet to go with a cup of tea. What surprised me the most wasn’t just how good they turned out—it was how easy the process was. No long chilling times, no stand mixer required, just a big bowl, a wooden spoon, and a little love.

So whether you’re baking these as a treat for yourself or sharing them with someone you love, you’re in for something truly comforting and delicious. Let’s dive into the why, the how, and all the little tips that’ll help you nail this recipe every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this peanut butter cookie recipe deserves a spot in your go-to dessert rotation. First and foremost, the texture is absolute perfection. Thanks to the creamy peanut butter and just the right ratio of butter and sugar, each cookie is soft, rich, and slightly chewy in the center, with beautifully golden edges that add the perfect bit of contrast. They’re tender without being cakey and hold their shape without turning hard once cooled.

In addition to texture, the flavor of these cookies is next-level peanut butter goodness. The natural nuttiness of the peanut butter shines through beautifully, and when combined with the caramel notes of brown sugar and the gentle warmth of vanilla extract, every bite is layered with deep, comforting flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can toss in some chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips for an extra punch of texture and richness.

This recipe is also incredibly adaptable. If you prefer natural peanut butter over processed, you can absolutely use that here (just make sure to stir it well). Want to make it a bit healthier? You can slightly reduce the sugar or substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. And if you’re baking for someone with allergies or dietary restrictions, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends and dairy-free butter without sacrificing much in terms of taste or structure.

Another huge win is how easy and quick this recipe is. The dough comes together in just one bowl, and there’s no chilling required unless you want thicker cookies. This makes it an ideal recipe when you need something sweet in a hurry—whether for unexpected guests, bake sales, or just those evenings when dessert is non-negotiable.

Finally, this recipe is kid-approved, adult-loved, and guaranteed to be requested again and again. It’s just the kind of treat that makes any day feel a little bit more special.

Health Benefits

While cookies aren’t typically the first thing that comes to mind when we talk about health benefits, these peanut butter cookies do have a few nutritional advantages that make them a more wholesome treat compared to other desserts. So let’s break it down.

To begin with, peanut butter is a surprisingly nutrient-dense ingredient. It’s a great source of plant-based protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied for longer. Each serving also contains healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health when eaten in moderation. These good fats help reduce bad cholesterol levels, which in turn lowers the risk of heart disease.

Peanut butter is also rich in essential vitamins and minerals. It provides magnesium, which supports muscle and nerve function; vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects your cells; and niacin and folate, which are both important for energy production and brain function. So while these cookies are definitely a treat, they do deliver some nutritional value thanks to the peanut butter content.

Additionally, the inclusion of eggs in the recipe contributes more protein, along with vitamin B12 and other important nutrients like choline and selenium. Even the flour adds a bit of fiber, particularly if you opt for whole wheat or a blend.

The moderate use of sugar is worth noting too. This recipe uses both granulated and brown sugar, but in amounts that balance flavor without overwhelming sweetness. If you’re looking to cut back further, you can experiment with unrefined sugars like coconut sugar or even reduce the quantity slightly.

Another health-conscious aspect of this recipe is the use of unsalted butter. This allows you to control the sodium content more precisely, which can be helpful if you’re watching your salt intake. And if you’re adding chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips, you’ll be getting a bit of crunch and extra flavor without artificial additives.

All in all, while these cookies are definitely a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, they can absolutely be part of a balanced diet. And if you bake them with care and quality ingredients, they become more than just dessert—they become a mindful indulgence that satisfies both the body and soul.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Knowing what to expect before you start baking is half the battle. That’s why we’ve laid out everything you need to know about the time commitment, the yield, and the nutritional breakdown of this peanut butter cookie recipe.

Preparation Time:

This recipe is incredibly fast from start to finish. Here’s a quick breakdown of the time involved:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 10–12 minutes per batch
• Cooling Time: 5–10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 30–35 minutes

You won’t need to chill the dough unless you want thicker cookies with more defined edges. If you do choose to chill, you can tack on an additional 30 minutes to an hour.

Servings:

This recipe makes approximately 18 medium-sized cookies when each dough ball is around 2 tablespoons. If you make them smaller, you can stretch it to about 24 cookies. If you prefer jumbo bakery-style cookies, expect around 12–14.

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie – based on 18 cookies):

• Calories: ~190
• Total Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 100mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Sugar: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g

These are approximate values and can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients you use, especially if you add extras like peanut butter chips or chopped nuts. You can also adjust the nutrition by using low-sugar peanut butter or sugar substitutes if desired.

Ingredients List

Before you start mixing, let’s walk through the ingredients you’ll need for this peanut butter cookie recipe. Every item plays an important role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Wet Ingredients:

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  Butter adds richness and moisture. Using unsalted butter helps control the overall salt content in the recipe.
• ½ cup (120g) creamy peanut butter
  This is the heart of the recipe. You can use either natural or processed peanut butter. Natural gives a slightly nuttier flavor, while processed yields a more classic cookie texture.
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  Provides sweetness and structure, helping the cookies spread properly in the oven.
• ½ cup (110g) brown sugar, packed
  Adds moisture and a deeper, molasses-like flavor that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
• 1 large egg
  Eggs act as a binder and contribute to the soft texture of the cookies.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  This enhances all the other flavors, adding warmth and depth.

Dry Ingredients:

• 1¼ cups (160g) all-purpose flour
  The base of the dough. It provides the structure that holds everything together.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
  A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise slightly and gives them a soft center.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
  Works with the baking soda to provide lift and lightness.
• ¼ teaspoon salt
  A small amount of salt intensifies the peanut butter flavor and balances out the sweetness.

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup (75g) chopped peanuts or peanut butter chips
  These add a bit of crunch or extra richness. Feel free to skip or customize to your taste.

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps them blend more smoothly and results in a better dough consistency. Now that we’ve gathered everything, let’s get baking!

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making these soft and chewy peanut butter cookies. The steps are straightforward, and I’ll be adding tips and helpful notes along the way to make sure your cookies come out perfect every single time.

1. Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and develop that classic golden color around the edges. While the oven is heating, line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and also makes for an easy cleanup afterward.

2. Cream the Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ½ cup unsalted butter, ½ cup peanut butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar.

Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to cream the ingredients together for about 2–3 minutes, or until the mixture is light, fluffy, and slightly pale in color. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the dough, which contributes to the cookies’ soft texture.

Tip: If you’re using natural peanut butter, be sure it’s well-stirred before adding it to the bowl. Natural peanut butter tends to separate, and using just the oily top layer will make your dough too soft and greasy.

3. Add the Egg and Vanilla Extract

Next, crack in 1 large egg and pour in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Beat on low speed until the egg and vanilla are fully incorporated. The dough should now be smooth, creamy, and slightly thick. At this point, your kitchen will already be smelling pretty amazing.

4. Mix the Dry Ingredients Separately

In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1¼ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, ½ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt.

This step ensures that all the leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed before they’re added to the wet ingredients. Uneven mixing can cause some cookies to rise more than others or leave a salty bite in one cookie and none in the next.

5. Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, about ⅓ at a time, mixing just until everything is combined. Use a spatula or wooden spoon at this point to gently fold the dough together if it gets too thick for your mixer.

Note: Don’t overmix. Overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, chewy ones. As soon as the flour disappears, stop mixing.

6. Stir in Optional Mix-Ins

If you want to add texture or a little twist, now’s the time to stir in ½ cup chopped peanuts or ½ cup peanut butter chips. You can also mix in mini chocolate chips if you’re in the mood for a peanut butter-chocolate combo.

Use a spoon or spatula to evenly distribute the mix-ins throughout the dough.

7. Scoop and Shape the Cookie Dough

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough and roll it gently between your palms to form a smooth ball. If the dough is too sticky, you can lightly flour your hands or chill the dough for 10 minutes.

Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.

8. Create the Signature Fork Pattern

Once your dough balls are on the sheet, use a fork to gently flatten them, pressing down in a crisscross pattern. This classic peanut butter cookie pattern is more than just decorative—it helps the cookies bake evenly by slightly flattening the dough.

Tip: If the fork sticks to the dough, dip it in a little bit of granulated sugar before pressing.

9. Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. Keep an eye on them around the 9-minute mark. You’re looking for golden edges with soft centers that still look slightly underbaked.

Important: Don’t overbake. The cookies will continue to set as they cool, so removing them when the centers still look soft ensures a chewy texture rather than a dry or crumbly one.

10. Cool the Cookies

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes after baking. This resting period allows them to finish baking from residual heat and helps them firm up slightly before moving.

After 5 minutes, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. If you try to move them too early, they may fall apart because they’re so soft right out of the oven.

11. Repeat with Remaining Dough

If you didn’t bake all your cookies in the first batch, repeat the process with the remaining dough. If you have only one baking sheet, wait until it cools before using it again to avoid spreading the dough too quickly on a hot pan.

Optional Step: Chill for Thicker Cookies

If you prefer cookies that don’t spread much and have a thicker, bakery-style appearance, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour before scooping and baking. This also helps deepen the flavor, especially if you’re using natural peanut butter.

Now that you’ve baked a beautiful batch of peanut butter cookies, let’s talk about how best to serve and enjoy them.

How to Serve

Peanut butter cookies are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Whether you’re putting together a casual snack platter or creating a dessert spread for a special occasion, these cookies shine in any setting.

One of the simplest and most delightful ways to enjoy these cookies is fresh from the oven. The soft centers and just-crisp edges are at their peak about 10–15 minutes after baking. Pair them with a glass of cold milk, a mug of tea, or a creamy coffee for a comforting treat.

For a classic presentation, arrange the cookies on a decorative plate or tiered dessert tray, especially if you’re hosting a tea party or gathering. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch, or drizzle with melted dark chocolate if you’re going for something more decadent.

Another great option is to sandwich two cookies together with a smear of peanut butter or chocolate spread. This turns them into a fun, handheld dessert that both kids and adults love. You can even roll the edges in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flair.

For a unique spin, crumble the cookies over ice cream or use them as a base for an indulgent cookie sundae. Simply layer warm cookie chunks with scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream, drizzle with caramel sauce, and top with whipped cream. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a celebration.

You can also pack these cookies as part of a lunchbox dessert or include them in cookie gift boxes for holidays and special occasions. Wrap them individually in parchment or place them in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a homemade touch.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these peanut butter cookies bring a sense of warmth and joy to the table. They’re perfect as an everyday treat or a special indulgence—truly cookies for all occasions.

Pairing Suggestions

To take your peanut butter cookie experience to the next level, it’s always fun to think about what to serve alongside them. From drinks to complementary dishes and even other desserts, these pairing suggestions will make your cookie moment feel even more special.

Beverage Pairings:

A classic pairing that never fails is a cold glass of milk. The creamy, cool texture of milk perfectly balances the rich, nutty flavor of the peanut butter, making every bite feel smoother and more satisfying. If you prefer something dairy-free, try almond milk or oat milk—their subtle nuttiness pairs beautifully with these cookies.

For a cozy afternoon snack or dessert, enjoy your cookies with a hot beverage. Black tea, chai, or herbal blends like rooibos provide a fragrant contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. If you’re a coffee lover, you’re in luck—strong black coffee, espresso, or a creamy latte brings out the deeper roasted flavors in the peanut butter.

If you’re making these cookies for a special occasion or gathering, you can create a cookie dessert board. Surround them with other small treats like chocolate truffles, sliced fruit, and mini muffins. Add a pot of tea or coffee on the side and you’ve got a cozy yet elegant dessert spread.

Other Sweet Pairings:

Consider pairing these cookies with vanilla or caramel-flavored desserts. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream between two cookies makes a quick ice cream sandwich that’s hard to beat. For something fancier, layer crumbled cookies in a parfait glass with whipped cream, chocolate pudding, or a peanut butter mousse.

Another fun idea is to dip the cookies halfway in melted chocolate, then sprinkle with crushed peanuts or a pinch of flaky sea salt. Once the chocolate sets, you have a treat that’s part cookie, part candy—perfect for gifting or a dessert platter.

Savory Pairings:

You might not immediately think to pair cookies with savory foods, but these peanut butter cookies actually make a fun addition to a brunch table or charcuterie board. Include them on the side with fresh fruits, cheeses (especially sharp cheddar or creamy brie), nuts, and crackers. The sweetness of the cookies creates a lovely contrast against salty or tangy flavors.

With these pairing ideas, your peanut butter cookies can easily transition from a simple snack to the centerpiece of your dessert game. Whether you’re going for classic or creative, there’s always a delicious way to enjoy them.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Peanut butter cookies not only bake up beautifully, but they also store and freeze exceptionally well. So whether you’ve made a big batch or you’re prepping ahead for a future treat, here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them while keeping that perfect texture.

Storing Cookies at Room Temperature:

Once the cookies have fully cooled, transfer them to an airtight container. You can stack them with a layer of parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. Keep the container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Stored properly, these cookies will stay soft and chewy for 4–5 days. If you find they start to lose a bit of their softness, you can toss a slice of bread into the container with them. The bread adds moisture to the air in the container, keeping your cookies tender without changing the flavor.

Refrigerating the Cookie Dough:

If you want to bake fresh cookies later, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 3 days. Just cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the dough to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to soften slightly before scooping.

Freezing the Cookie Dough:

To freeze unbaked dough, scoop it into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1–2 hours, then transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container.

Label the bag with the date and bake time. The dough will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls directly on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) and add 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time—no need to thaw.

Freezing Baked Cookies:

You can also freeze the fully baked cookies. Allow them to cool completely, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30–45 minutes, or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes if you want to refresh the soft texture and enjoy a slightly warm cookie.

Reheating Cookies:

To reheat cookies for that just-baked feel, place one or two on a microwave-safe plate and heat in the microwave for 8–10 seconds. They’ll come out warm and slightly gooey—perfect with a glass of milk or cup of tea.

By following these storage and reheating instructions, you’ll be able to enjoy these cookies at their best—whether fresh out of the oven, a few days later, or even months down the line.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this recipe is pretty simple and forgiving, there are still a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome of your cookies. By keeping these in mind, you’ll avoid any baking mishaps and ensure that your cookies turn out just the way you want them every time.

1. Overmixing the Dough

Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, it’s important to mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, tender ones. Mix gently and stop as soon as there are no streaks of flour left.

2. Using Cold Ingredients

If your butter or eggs are cold, they won’t incorporate as well into the dough. This can result in a dough that’s lumpy or doesn’t hold together properly. Always start with room temperature butter and eggs so everything blends smoothly.

3. Overbaking the Cookies

One of the biggest mistakes with peanut butter cookies is baking them for too long. They should still look a little soft and underdone in the center when you take them out of the oven. They’ll continue to bake from residual heat as they cool on the tray, setting up into perfectly soft and chewy cookies.

4. Skipping the Fork Pattern

It might seem like a small detail, but that crisscross fork pattern does more than just make the cookies look traditional. It flattens the dough slightly, which helps them bake evenly and prevents overly thick centers. Don’t skip this step—it makes a difference.

5. Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately

Baking is more precise than cooking, and small measurement errors can throw off the texture. Use measuring cups and spoons, and level off ingredients like flour with a knife. For even more accuracy, especially if you bake often, use a kitchen scale.

Avoiding these common pitfalls will help you make peanut butter cookies that are consistently delicious. Even if something goes slightly off, don’t worry—there’s always a next batch, and every baking session is a chance to learn.

Pro Tips

If you’re looking to take your peanut butter cookie game to the next level, these tried-and-true tips will help you master the art of soft, chewy, bakery-worthy cookies every single time. Whether you’re baking for the first time or just want to refine your process, these little tricks can make a big difference.

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

As mentioned before, starting with room temperature butter and eggs ensures your dough comes together smoothly and evenly. When butter is too cold, it doesn’t cream well with the sugar, which can affect the cookie texture. Room temp ingredients allow the sugars to dissolve better and create that soft, fluffy base you’re looking for.

2. Don’t Skip the Creaming Step

When you cream together the butter, peanut butter, and sugars, take your time. Creaming for 2–3 minutes on medium speed adds air to the dough and helps create that signature chewy texture. It also helps the sugars blend fully into the fats, which is key for consistent flavor and texture.

3. Chill the Dough for Thicker Cookies

While this recipe is designed to be baked without chilling the dough, if you want cookies that are thicker and more bakery-style, pop the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes to an hour before scooping. This helps prevent spreading in the oven and concentrates the flavors for a more developed taste.

4. Use a Cookie Scoop for Even Sizes

Using a cookie scoop ensures that your cookies are all the same size, which helps them bake evenly. If you don’t have a scoop, you can use a tablespoon measure—but try to keep the size consistent across all cookies. Uneven cookies can lead to some being underbaked while others become too crisp.

5. Press Fork Pattern Before Baking

It’s best to make the crisscross pattern with a fork before baking. This not only gives the cookies their classic peanut butter look but also helps them flatten evenly. If the dough sticks to your fork, dip the fork in a little sugar before pressing—it gives the top a subtle crunch and prevents sticking.

6. Don’t Overbake—Even Slightly Underbake

One of the biggest secrets to perfectly chewy peanut butter cookies is knowing when to take them out of the oven. They should look slightly underdone in the center and set on the edges. They’ll continue to bake and set as they cool on the tray. Taking them out at the right time means you’ll avoid dry or crumbly cookies.

7. Refresh Cookies with a Microwave or Oven

If you’re enjoying cookies a few days after baking, you can give them a quick refresh. A 10-second microwave zap or a 5-minute warm-up in the oven at 300°F (150°C) can bring back that fresh-from-the-oven softness and warmth.

8. Add a Sprinkle of Sea Salt on Top

Want to enhance the flavor even more? Sprinkle a tiny bit of flaky sea salt on top of the cookies just before baking. That little bit of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the nuttiness of the peanut butter in a big way.

9. Mix In Texture Boosters

Try mixing in chopped peanuts for crunch, mini chocolate chips for extra indulgence, or even a swirl of jam for a peanut butter and jelly twist. This dough is flexible and forgiving—feel free to make it your own.

10. Bake on the Middle Rack

Always bake your cookies on the center rack of the oven. This ensures even heat distribution and prevents the bottoms from burning before the tops are done. Rotate the tray halfway through baking if your oven tends to have hot spots.

These simple tips can make a noticeable difference in the final product. With just a few tweaks and thoughtful steps, you can go from good cookies to truly great ones—ones that get recipe requests every time you share them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Peanut butter cookies are a beloved classic, and with that comes lots of great questions from both beginner and experienced bakers. Below are the most common FAQs to help troubleshoot, adapt, and perfect your cookies every time.

1. Can I use natural peanut butter instead of processed?

Yes, you can absolutely use natural peanut butter. Just make sure it’s well-stirred so there’s no separation of oil and solids. Natural peanut butter tends to make the dough a bit softer, so you may want to chill it for 30 minutes before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.

2. What if I only have salted butter?

If you use salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe from ¼ teaspoon to just a pinch. Salted butter works in a pinch, but using unsalted gives you better control over the final flavor.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for best results. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

4. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Definitely. After scooping the dough into balls, place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months. You can bake straight from frozen—just add 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time.

5. How do I store leftover cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to store them longer, freeze the baked cookies and thaw as needed.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles beautifully. Just make sure to mix the ingredients in a large enough bowl and bake in batches so you don’t overcrowd the oven.

7. Why are my cookies dry or crumbly?

This is usually due to overbaking or using too much flour. Be sure to measure your flour properly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Also, don’t bake the cookies too long—take them out when the centers are still soft.

8. Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes, you can try using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2½ tablespoons water) or a store-bought egg replacer. The texture will be slightly different but still tasty.

9. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can reduce each type of sugar slightly without a huge impact on texture. Just keep in mind that sugar affects both sweetness and structure, so don’t cut too much. Reducing each by ¼ cup is usually safe.

10. Do I need to refrigerate the dough before baking?

Nope, not required! The dough is ready to bake right away. However, if you want thicker cookies or more developed flavor, chilling for 30–60 minutes is a great option.

These FAQs should clear up any lingering questions and help you bake your best batch yet. Still curious? Feel free to experiment and tweak the recipe to match your taste and preferences.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Soft, chewy, and full of warm peanut buttery goodness, these cookies are the ultimate comfort dessert. They’re quick to whip up, incredibly easy to make, and filled with just the right balance of salty, sweet, and buttery flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying cookies from scratch for the first time, this recipe is one that you’ll come back to again and again.

What makes these cookies truly special is their versatility. You can keep them simple with just the basic dough or dress them up with fun mix-ins like chopped nuts or chocolate chips. You can make them big and bakery-style or small and snackable. Serve them at parties, pack them in lunchboxes, bring them to bake sales, or just make a batch for yourself on a cozy evening at home.

Now that you’ve seen how simple and satisfying they are to make, it’s time to give it a try yourself. Grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a batch of homemade peanut butter cookies. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making a second batch sooner than you expected—they really are that good.

Once you’ve made them, I’d love to hear how it went! Share your experience in the comments or snap a photo and tag me on social media. I can’t wait to see your cookie creations and hear what twists you might have added to make them your own.

Happy baking, and here’s to many delicious cookie moments ahead!

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