Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Quick and easy peanut butter cookies made with only 5 pantry ingredients and no flour or butter! These Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you need a quick dessert or a snack for kids. Their soft texture and rich peanut butter flavor will delight everyone, making them a go-to treat in your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: You only need five common pantry items to whip up these cookies.
• No Flour or Butter: This recipe skips the traditional ingredients, making it lighter and easier to digest.
• Quick to Make: With just 15 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy fresh cookies in no time.
• Versatile Flavor: The creamy peanut butter base is perfect on its own or can be mixed with chocolate chips or nuts.
• Kid-Friendly: Simple enough for kids to help make, these cookies are fun to prepare together.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious Easy Peanut Butter Cookies, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Makes blending the ingredients effortless and ensures a smooth dough.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking and helps cookies bake evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Cookie scoop: Helps you portion out uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

Quick and easy peanut butter cookies made with only 5 pantry ingredients and no flour or butter! Simple, effortless, and delicious!

Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus more for rolling, optional)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 cup creamy full-fat peanut butter (see note)
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla

How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Using an electric mixer, blend together all the ingredients until they are combined, smooth, and thick. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Scoop the Dough

Using a heaping tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop out 1 & 1/4-inch balls of dough. Knead and roll them in your hands until they feel soft and smooth. If desired, roll the balls in granulated sugar before baking.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Transfer the cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 5: Form Criss-Cross Pattern

Press down on each ball with the back of a fork. Then press again from the opposite direction to form a criss-cross pattern on top. To prevent sticking, dip the fork tines in granulated sugar between cookies.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Bake for about 10 minutes or until the tops are lightly brown and they expand to about 3 inches wide. Keep in mind that all ovens may vary slightly in temperature.

Step 7: Cool Down

Remove from the oven and let cool on the tray for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely and firm up.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious Easy Peanut Butter Cookies with a tall glass of cold milk!

How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

These easy peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that complements the rich taste of peanut butter. The creaminess of milk balances the sweetness perfectly.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• Add a fun crunch by crumbling these cookies over your favorite ice cream. It adds both texture and flavor, making for a delicious dessert.

Sandwiched with Chocolate Spread

• For an indulgent twist, spread chocolate hazelnut or dark chocolate spread between two cookies. This creates a decadent sandwich treat that’s hard to resist.

Drizzled with Honey

• A drizzle of honey on top enhances the sweetness while adding a floral note. It’s quick and elevates the cookie’s flavor profile.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Pair these cookies with sliced bananas or strawberries. The freshness of the fruit complements the richness of the peanut butter cookies.

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How to Perfect Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Perfecting your easy peanut butter cookies is simple with a few tips in mind. Follow these guidelines for delicious results every time.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and liquid ingredients to ensure consistency in texture and flavor.
• Use room temperature egg: A room temperature egg helps the batter combine more smoothly, resulting in better texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies; overmixing can lead to dense results.
• Chill if necessary: If your dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens vary, so start checking your cookies a minute or two before the recipe suggests to prevent overbaking.
• Store properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for freshness, or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your easy peanut butter cookies can create a delightful snack or dessert platter. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds color and balance to your cookie experience.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that pairs well with sweet cookies.
3. Chocolate Fondue: Dip cookie pieces into warm chocolate fondue for an interactive dessert that’s fun and delicious.
4. Cheese Platter: Serve assorted cheeses alongside your cookies for a savory contrast that enhances flavors.
5. Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix can provide an energy boost and complements the chewy texture of peanut butter cookies.
6. Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these treats with a hot cup of coffee or tea to create a cozy atmosphere perfect for snacking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Peanut Butter Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes might affect your results. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve cookie perfection.

• Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. This step ensures even baking and helps cookies rise properly.

• Incorrect Measurements: Use precise measurements for sugars and peanut butter. Too much or too little can change the cookie’s texture significantly.

• Not Using Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper prevents sticking and promotes even cooking. Avoid directly placing cookies on an ungreased surface.

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be lightly browned on top but still soft in the center when you take them out.

• Skipping Sugar Rolling: For a little extra sweetness and texture, consider rolling the cookie balls in granulated sugar before baking. It enhances flavor and adds a nice finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1 hour.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Peanut Butter Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan on low heat for a couple of minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Peanut Butter Cookies, along with their answers.

How do I make Easy Peanut Butter Cookies without flour?

You can make these cookies using just peanut butter, sugar, an egg, and vanilla extract—no flour needed!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will give your cookies a delightful texture while keeping them easy to make.

How long do Easy Peanut Butter Cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

What variations can I try with this recipe?

Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or oatmeal to customize your Easy Peanut Butter Cookies according to your taste preferences!

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can swap brown sugar for coconut sugar or use almond butter instead of peanut butter for different flavors.

Final Thoughts

These Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are not only simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies offer a delightful treat that is sure to please everyone. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!