These classic peanut butter cookies are a nostalgic treat that takes you right back to your childhood, with a chewy and soft texture that’s perfectly sweet, these cookies bring comfort with each bite. They’re simple, satisfying, and just the right mix of buttery richness and peanut butter goodness, making them an ideal snack or dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something about the familiar taste of peanut butter cookies that’s both comforting and satisfying. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with peanut butter flavor. The balance of granulated and brown sugar creates the perfect sweetness, while the fork crisscross pattern gives them that nostalgic, homemade touch. Whether you’re reminiscing about school days or simply craving a delicious cookie, this recipe will take you back to simpler times and fill your home with the sweet smell of freshly baked cookies.

Peanut Butter Cookies

Ingredients

3/4 pound (3 sticks) butter, softened
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 pound peanut butter
2 eggs
2 3/4 cups flour
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In the large bowl of an electric mixer, beat the butter until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Mix in the Sugars: Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat until the sugar is fully incorporated and no granules remain, about 5 minutes.
Add the Peanut Butter: Stir in the peanut butter and mix until fully combined.
Add the Eggs: Crack in the eggs and continue beating on high speed for 1 minute.
Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Blend the Dough: Slowly add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until the dough is well-blended.
Shape the Cookies: Drop the dough by heaping tablespoons onto greased baking sheets. Flatten the dough with the palm of your hand to form 3-inch circles, about 1/4 inch thick.
Create the Crisscross Pattern: Use a fork to press the dough, creating the classic crisscross pattern.
Bake: Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly browned on the bottom.
Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 25–27 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies

Variations

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious twist on the classic recipe.
Crunchy Peanut Butter: For added texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth peanut butter in the dough.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies: Add a spoonful of your favorite jelly or jam on top of each cookie before baking for a fun PB&J-inspired treat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezing: You can freeze the dough before baking. Scoop the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Reheating: To soften cookies, place them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but if you use salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe by half.

2. Can I use a different type of nut butter?

While peanut butter is the classic choice, you can try almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor.

3. Why are my cookies flat?

If your cookies are too flat, it could be because the dough was overmixed or the butter was too soft. Try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape.

4. How do I make my cookies chewier?

For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them or use more brown sugar than granulated sugar, as brown sugar adds moisture.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, feel free to double the recipe to make more cookies. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if necessary.

6. Can I make these cookies without a mixer?

Yes, you can mix the dough by hand using a wooden spoon or spatula, though it will take a bit more effort.

7. Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag, and bake from frozen.

8. How can I make my cookies more flavorful?

Adding a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract can enhance the flavor of the cookies, but be careful not to overpower the peanut butter taste.

9. Can I use natural peanut butter?

You can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind that it tends to be more oily than regular peanut butter, which may affect the texture of the dough.

10. What is the best way to store peanut butter cookies?

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and make sure they’re completely cool before storing them to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Conclusion

These peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style. With their soft, chewy texture and rich peanut butter flavor, they bring the nostalgic comfort of childhood memories in every bite. Easy to make and utterly delicious, they’re perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy moments at home. Grab a glass of milk, and enjoy these timeless cookies!