Classic Peanut Butter Cookies – Soft, Crunchy, and Perfectly Sweet

These Classic Peanut Butter Cookies are a delicious blend of soft, chewy texture with just the right amount of crunch. The rich peanut butter flavor shines through in every bite, making these cookies a timeless favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 1 cup sugar (granulated)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
• Extra sugar (for rolling, optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Prepare the Cookie Dough
   In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt (if using). Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
3. Shape the Cookies
   Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie to give them space to spread as they bake. You can also roll the dough balls in extra sugar for a sweet and crunchy coating.
4. Flatten with a Fork
   Use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball, creating a crisscross pattern on top. This gives the cookies their signature appearance.
5. Bake the Cookies
   Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so be sure not to over-bake them.
6. Cool and Enjoy
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2-3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with a glass of milk or enjoy on their own!

Why You’ll Love These Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, you can have freshly baked peanut butter cookies in no time.
• Perfect Balance of Soft and Crunchy: These cookies have a crisp exterior with a soft, chewy center that makes them irresistible.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a bake sale, or just to indulge yourself, these cookies are the perfect treat.

Pro Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies

• Use Natural Peanut Butter: For a more intense peanut flavor, try using natural peanut butter, which has a richer taste and a slightly more textured consistency.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix the dough just until everything is combined to ensure your cookies stay light and tender.
• Chill the Dough for Thicker Cookies: If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.

Conclusion

These Classic Peanut Butter Cookies are the perfect blend of rich peanut flavor and melt-in-your-mouth goodness. With their crispy edges and chewy centers, they offer the perfect texture in every bite. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, these cookies will become your go-to recipe for whenever you need a quick and delicious treat. Try them today and enjoy the sweet, nutty goodness that only peanut butter cookies can deliver!