Peanut Butter Cookies – Soft, Chewy & Irresistibly Classic
Few cookies are as comforting and nostalgic as peanut butter cookies. With their signature crisscross fork marks and rich, nutty flavor, these cookies are a timeless favorite. Soft in the center, lightly crisp on the edges, and packed with peanut butter goodness, they’re perfect for lunchboxes, holiday trays, or a simple afternoon treat.
This easy homemade recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together quickly — no fancy equipment required.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies
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Rich peanut butter flavor
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Soft and chewy texture
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Simple, everyday ingredients
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Quick and easy to make
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Freezer-friendly
Ingredients
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1 cup creamy peanut butter
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½ cup unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup brown sugar
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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¼ teaspoon salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together:
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Peanut butter
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Softened butter
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Brown sugar
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Granulated sugar
Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
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Flour
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Baking soda
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Salt
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
5. Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls.
Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Use a fork to gently press down and create the classic crisscross pattern.
6. Bake
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
The centers may look slightly soft — that’s perfect. They will firm up as they cool.
Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies
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Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture.
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Don’t overbake — slightly underbaked cookies stay soft.
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For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
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If the fork sticks while making the pattern, dip it in sugar first.
Variations
1. 3-Ingredient Version
Mix 1 cup peanut butter, 1 cup sugar, and 1 egg for a flourless option.
2. Chocolate Chip
Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
3. Stuffed Cookies
Place a small chocolate square inside each dough ball before baking.
4. Crunchy Style
Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
Storage & Freezing
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Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
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Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
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Freeze dough balls and bake straight from frozen (add 1–2 minutes to baking time).
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of peanut butter and butter creates rich flavor and tender texture. Brown sugar keeps the cookies soft and chewy, while the fork press ensures even baking.
These homemade peanut butter cookies are simple, reliable, and always a crowd-pleaser — the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again.