Best Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about the aroma of freshly baked peanut butter cookies wafting through your kitchen. The warm, nutty scent mingling with the sweetness of sugar is enough to bring anyone back to childhood memories of baking with loved ones. Today, I’m excited to share with you my Best Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe, a delightful treat that balances the rich flavor of peanut butter with a satisfying crunch. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a holiday gathering.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This cookie recipe is not just another one to add to your collection; it’s a staple that deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen. With the perfect combination of chewy and crunchy textures, these cookies are incredibly satisfying. The extra-crunchy peanut butter brings a delightful depth of flavor while the crushed dry roasted peanuts add a glorious crunch that elevates the cookie experience. Plus, they are straightforward to make and require ingredients you likely already have on hand. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again!

Ingredient Checklist

Before we dive into the baking process, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious cookies:

• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup extra-crunchy peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
• 1 cup dry roasted peanuts, crushed

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best results. You’ll be amazed by how these simple components come together to create cookie perfection!

Recommended Tools

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, here are a few tools you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls: A large bowl for mixing your wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success.
• Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or handheld mixer will save you time and energy.
• Baking Sheets: Use non-stick or lined sheets for easy cookie removal.
• Cookie Scoop: This will help you portion your cookie dough evenly for uniform baking.
• Cooling Rack: A must-have for letting your cookies cool without becoming soggy.

With these tools at your side, you’ll be ready to create the best peanut butter cookies you’ve ever tasted!

Best Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe: From Prep to Plate

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar together using your electric mixer. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Peanut Butter and Eggs

Next, add the extra-crunchy peanut butter to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Crushed Peanuts

Using a spatula, gently fold in the crushed dry roasted peanuts. This will give your cookies that extra crunch we all love.

Step 7: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to set as they cool.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

Flavor-Forward Alternatives

Looking to switch things up? Here are a few variations you can try to customize your Best Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe:

• Chocolate Chips: Fold in a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate-peanut butter combo.
• Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie before baking for an elevated flavor experience.
• Nut Variations: Swap out dry roasted peanuts for chopped walnuts, almonds, or even pecans for a unique twist.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the cookie dough balls in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon before baking for a warm, spiced flavor.

These alternatives can help you create a personalized cookie experience that everyone will love!

Slip-Ups to Skip

Baking can sometimes be tricky, but with a little guidance, you can avoid common pitfalls. Here are some slip-ups to skip:

• Don’t skip the softening of the butter; it’s essential for creating a creamy texture.
• Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for proper leavening.
• Avoid overmixing the dough; this can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack to prevent breaking.

By steering clear of these mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to baking success!

Freezer-Friendly Notes

Need to make your cookie cravings last longer? These cookies freeze beautifully! Here are some tips:

• Once the cookie dough is prepared, you can scoop it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored for up to three months.
• When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
• Alternatively, you can bake the cookies, allow them to cool completely, and then freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months.

This makes it easy to have freshly baked cookies on hand whenever the craving strikes!

Ask the Chef

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! In fact, this recipe calls for extra-crunchy peanut butter specifically for that delightful texture. Feel free to use your favorite type of peanut butter!

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them (see the freezer-friendly notes!).

Can I substitute the butter with margarine or oil?

While you can use margarine, it’s best to stick with unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture. Oil may alter the texture of the cookies significantly.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels too sticky to handle, you can refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to scoop.

See You at the Table

There’s nothing quite like sharing a batch of warm peanut butter cookies with family and friends. As you bite into these delightful treats, you’ll experience the perfect blend of chewy and crunchy textures, with the rich flavor of peanut butter shining through. Whether enjoyed alone or accompanied by a glass of milk, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your day.

So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients and get baking! I can’t wait to hear how your Best Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe turns out. Happy baking!