Blog

Best Classic Peanut Butter Cookies: Easy, Chewy & Perfect

Spread the love

Why Make This Best Classic Peanut Butter Cookies: Easy, Chewy & Perfect

If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate peanut butter cookie recipe, your search ends here. These classic peanut butter cookies are delightfully chewy, with a rich peanut buttery flavor that takes you back to childhood. They are easy to whip up and require simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy them with a glass of milk or as a sweet treat during your afternoon break, these cookies are sure to impress. The soft texture and the iconic crisscross fork marks make them not only delicious but also visually appealing.

How to Make Best Classic Peanut Butter Cookies: Easy, Chewy & Perfect

Making the best classic peanut butter cookies doesn’t have to be complicated. You’ll follow a straightforward process of mixing your ingredients, chilling the dough, and baking until golden. This step-by-step guide will ensure you end up with cookies that are soft, chewy, and bursting with peanut butter goodness.

Ingredients:

1 cup (2 sticks or 226g) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 cup (220g) packed light brown sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
Additional granulated sugar for rolling (optional)

Directions:

Prepare Dry Ingredients & Workspace: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. Set aside.
Cream Fats and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl (or stand mixer), beat 1 cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup creamy peanut butter on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 cup packed light brown sugar; beat for another 3-5 minutes, scraping the sides, until light and aerated.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Reduce mixer speed to low. Gradually add the flour mixture (in thirds) to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Do not overmix; finish incorporating by hand if necessary.
Chill the Dough: Transfer dough to a clean bowl, cover tightly, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Chilling prevents spreading and deepens flavor.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Form Cookies: Scoop dough using a 1 ½ to 2 tablespoon cookie scoop. Roll each portion into a smooth, uniform ball. If desired, roll each ball in additional granulated sugar for a sparkling exterior.
Apply Signature Crosshatch: Place sugared dough balls about 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Gently press down on each with a fork to create a crisscross pattern, ensuring even baking. Dip fork in sugar if it sticks.
Bake Cookies: Bake one sheet at a time for 10-12 minutes. Cookies are done when edges are lightly golden brown and set, but centers still appear slightly soft and puffy. Do not overbake to maintain chewiness.
Cool and Store: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store fully cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. To keep cookies soft, place a half-slice of bread in the container.

Nutritional Information

Per cookie (out of 24):

Calories: 180
Fats: 9g
Carbohydrates: 23g
Protein: 3g
Sugars: 10g
Fiber: 1g

How to Serve Best Classic Peanut Butter Cookies: Easy, Chewy & Perfect

These cookies make a perfect snack for any occasion. Serve them as an afternoon treat, or pair them with a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic dessert. They also work great in lunchboxes or as a special addition to bake sales. For an extra touch, enjoy them warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top!

How to Store Best Classic Peanut Butter Cookies: Easy, Chewy & Perfect

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days. If you want to keep them for longer, freeze them! Wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the microwave.

Expert Tips for Perfect Best Classic Peanut Butter Cookies: Easy, Chewy & Perfect

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Don’t Skip the Chill: Chilling the dough significantly helps in achieving that chewy texture and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Remove them from the oven when they’re slightly underbaked for the perfect chewy center.
Variations: Try using crunchy peanut butter for added texture, or sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty flavor.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Chip: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Nutty Addition: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
Flour Alternatives: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that natural peanut butter might require adjustments in sugar or fat due to its varying oil content.
Why are my cookies not chewy?
Overbaking is often the culprit. Monitor them closely and pull them out while they still look slightly underbaked in the center.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper texture.

Conclusion

These Best Classic Peanut Butter Cookies are a must-try for any cookie lover. With their simple preparation, delightful chewiness, and creamy peanut butter flavor, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household. So, grab your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in some homemade goodness. Don’t forget to share your cookie adventures with family and friends, and happy baking!

More Recipes

Plate of chewy classic peanut butter cookies fresh from the oven

Blog