Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that brings smiles to everyone’s faces, look no further than these Soft Peanut Butter Cookies. There’s something magical about the combination of creamy peanut butter and a hint of sweetness that makes these cookies a beloved classic in my kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this recipe is perfect for whipping up a batch of happiness.

These cookies are not only soft and chewy but also incredibly easy to make. They fill your home with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for more. Trust me, once you try these Soft Peanut Butter Cookies, they will become a go-to dessert in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love them! Baking together can be a fun activity for the whole family.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The dough can be chilled ahead of time, so you can bake fresh cookies whenever you want.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich taste of peanut butter shines through, making each bite delightful and satisfying.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make these delicious cookies. You likely have most of these items in your pantry already!

• 1/2 cup Peanut Butter
• 1/2 cup Butter (softened)
• 1/3 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/3 cup White Sugar
• 1 1/4 cups All-purpose Flour
• 1/2 tsp Baking Soda
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 Egg

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative and experiment with different flavors.

• Add Chocolate Chips: For a richer treat, stir in some chocolate chips before baking.
• Mix in Nuts: If you love a little crunch, consider adding chopped peanuts or walnuts to the dough.
• Try Different Nut Butters: Swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a unique twist.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary preferences.

How to Make Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In the bowl of your stand mixer, cream together the brown sugar, white sugar, peanut butter, and softened butter. Mix on medium speed until everything is smooth and well combined. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the mixture, helping your cookies rise beautifully!

Step 2: Add Egg and Vanilla

Once the mixture is smooth, beat in the egg and vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture and flavor to your cookies, making them even more delicious.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking these dry ingredients together ensures even distribution before adding them to the wet mixture.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while mixing on medium speed. This helps create a uniform dough without overworking it — overmixing can lead to tough cookies!

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Transfer your cookie dough to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a lid. Place it in the fridge for one hour. Chilling helps solidify the fats in your dough which leads to perfectly shaped cookies when baked.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

While you wait for the dough to chill, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This way, your cookies will bake evenly at just the right temperature.

Step 7: Shape Your Cookies

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Roll about 1-1/2 tablespoons of dough into balls and place them on the baking sheet. Gently press down on each ball with the back of a fork in a crisscross pattern — this adds that classic peanut butter cookie look!

Step 8: Bake!

Pop those beauties into your preheated oven and bake for about 9-11 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them; every oven is different!

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked, transfer your cookies to a cooling rack. This allows them to set properly while keeping their soft texture intact. Enjoy warm or at room temperature — either way, they’re absolutely scrumptious!

Pro Tips for Making Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Making soft peanut butter cookies is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your butter and egg to reach room temperature helps create a smooth batter that incorporates air better, resulting in lighter cookies.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling the dough for an hour helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. It also enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together.
• Measure flour correctly: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method—spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
• Watch the baking time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they approach the 9-minute mark. You want them to be golden around the edges but still soft in the middle.
• Store properly: To keep your cookies soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Adding a slice of bread can help maintain moisture!

How to Serve Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

Soft peanut butter cookies are not only delicious on their own but can also be creatively presented to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Chocolate drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate adds a beautiful touch and extra sweetness to your cookies.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or almonds on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor enhancement.

Side Dishes

• Milk: A classic pairing, a glass of cold almond or oat milk complements the rich flavors of peanut butter perfectly.
• Fruit salad: Fresh fruit provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet and chewy cookies. Berries or sliced bananas work particularly well!
• Ice cream: Serve alongside a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s sure to please everyone.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of herbal tea or coffee balances out the sweetness of the cookies and creates a cozy atmosphere.

Enjoy sharing these soft peanut butter cookies with friends and family—they’re sure to become a favorite treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Soft Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and manage your cookie stash:

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• For extra softness, you can add a slice of bread to the container; it helps keep the cookies moist!

Freezing

• To freeze cookies, allow them to cool completely.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer cookies to a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply remove the desired amount from the freezer.
• Let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Enjoy the delightful taste of freshly baked cookies anytime!

FAQs

Have some questions about this delicious recipe? Here are some common queries answered!

How do I make Soft Peanut Butter Cookies without eggs?

You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

What makes these Soft Peanut Butter Cookies chewy?

The combination of butter and brown sugar creates moisture in the cookies, resulting in a soft and chewy texture. Be sure not to overbake them as well!

Can I use natural peanut butter for Soft Peanut Butter Cookies?

Yes! Natural peanut butter works perfectly fine, but keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture. Just ensure it’s well-stirred before measuring.

How do I know when my Soft Peanut Butter Cookies are done?

Look for edges that are golden brown while the center remains soft. They will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Soft Peanut Butter Cookies just as much as I do! They’re not only simple but also bring back fond memories of family gatherings and sweet moments. Enjoy sharing these delightful treats with your loved ones and don’t forget to savor each bite. Happy baking!