Best Homemade Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe: Soft, Chewy, and Easy to Make

Classic Homemade Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a freshly baked peanut butter cookie recipe that fills your home with that irresistible nutty aroma. These soft, chewy cookies feature a double dose of peanut butter that creates the perfect texture and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe

• Double the peanut butter means double the flavor in every bite
• Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
• Quick prep time of just 15 minutes
• Perfect texture with chewy centers and slightly crisp edges
• Kid-friendly recipe that makes for a fun baking activity

Key Ingredients for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

• 2 cups peanut butter (creamy preferred, but crunchy works too)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Electric mixer (stand or hand mixer)
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Fork (for creating the classic crisscross pattern)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form dough into 1½-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Using a fork, create the classic crisscross pattern by pressing down lightly on each cookie in two directions.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers still appear soft.
9. Remove from oven and let cookies cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies Every Time

• Use room temperature ingredients for the best texture and easier mixing.
• Don’t overmix the dough once you add the dry ingredients to maintain tenderness.
• Slightly underbake the cookies if you prefer a softer, chewier texture.
• Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it’s too sticky to handle easily.
• Add a sprinkle of sugar on top before baking for extra sweetness and sparkle.

Delicious Variations to Try

• Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a delightful peanut butter chocolate chip cookie.
• Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped peanuts for extra texture and nuttiness.
• Reese’s Inspiration: Press a mini peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie immediately after baking.
• Holiday Special: Roll cookie balls in colored sugar before baking for festive occasions.
• Sandwich Cookies: Spread chocolate frosting or peanut butter between two cookies for an indulgent treat.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

To Store: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to keep cookies soft.

To Freeze Baked Cookies: Place completely cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

To Freeze Cookie Dough: Roll dough into balls, flatten slightly with fork, and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

Nutritional Information Per Cookie

Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Cookies

Why do peanut butter cookies have fork marks?

The classic crisscross pattern isn’t just decorative—it helps these dense cookies bake more evenly by flattening the dough and creating more surface area.

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, but the texture may be different. If using natural peanut butter, make sure it’s well-stirred and not too oily. You might need to add an extra tablespoon or two of flour to compensate.

Why are my cookies crumbly?

This could be from overbaking or too much flour. Make sure to measure flour correctly by spooning it into measuring cups rather than scooping directly from the container.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.

The Perfect Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe for Any Occasion

Whether you’re baking for a family dessert, school bake sale, holiday cookie exchange, or just satisfying your sweet tooth, this peanut butter cookie recipe is guaranteed to impress. With their perfect balance of sweetness, rich peanut butter flavor, and ideal chewy texture, these cookies will quickly become your go-to recipe when the cookie craving strikes!

Recipe adapted from Joey’s Peanut Butter Cookies