Description
These peanut butter cookies are the ultimate treat for lovers of soft, chewy textures. With their thick, melt-in-your-mouth centers and slightly crisp edges, they’re everything a cookie should be—rich, nutty, and irresistibly delicious. Made with creamy peanut butter, brown sugar for extra moisture, and a touch of vanilla, these cookies strike the perfect balance of sweetness and salty peanut flavor. Finished with a crisscross pattern on top, they’re simple yet unforgettable. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to become your go-to.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (use natural or store-bought, but avoid oily varieties)
- 1 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for rolling
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Whisk dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
- Chill for texture: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps prevent spreading and ensures a soft, chewy texture.
Step 5: Shape and Bake
Roll the dough: Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat lightly. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Create the crisscross pattern: Use the back of a fork to gently press down on each ball, creating a crisscross pattern. Flatten slightly, but don’t press too hard—this helps maintain the soft texture.
Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look slightly underbaked (they will continue to set as they cool).
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 Minutes
- Cook Time: 10 Minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
