If you’re craving a dessert that hits just the right balance of soft and rich, you have to try this Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. These cookies bring together creamy peanut butter, a hint of vanilla, and just the right amount of sweetness to create a treat that’s perfectly chewy and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or to impress your friends, this recipe delivers warm, comforting cookies that melt in your mouth and keep you coming back for more. Trust me, once you make this Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe, it’ll become your go-to for satisfying that peanut butter craving with a chewy twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe uses simple pantry staples that each play an important role in bringing out the cookie’s fantastic texture and flavor. From the creamy peanut butter for that signature nutty taste to the brown sugar that adds moisture and depth, every ingredient is essential for the perfect chewy bite.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient delivering creamy, nutty flavor.
- 3/4 cup brown sugar: Keeps the cookies moist and contributes to chewiness.
- 1/4 cup white granulated sugar: Brings sweetness and helps with cookie structure.
- 1 egg: Binds everything together and adds moisture.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor complexity.
- 1 1/3 cups unbleached flour: Provides the necessary structure without toughness.
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Adds lift for a soft, chewy texture.
- Sea salt (optional): A finishing touch that balances sweetness and boosts flavor.
How to Make Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures even baking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and white granulated sugar. Mix these together until the texture is smooth and creamy—this is where the magic begins, as it sets the stage for those chewy cookies.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Next, mix in the egg and pure vanilla extract until everything is fully combined. The egg acts as your cookie’s binder, while vanilla infuses that warm, inviting aroma.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the unbleached flour, baking soda, and baking powder, stirring gently just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing here can make your cookies tough, so keep it light.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Use about 2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie, rolling into balls and spacing them evenly on your baking sheet. Don’t forget to leave enough room because they’ll spread a bit while baking.
Step 6: Create Crisscross Patterns and Add Salt
Press each dough ball gently with a fork to form the classic peanut butter cookie crisscross pattern. Sprinkle sea salt lightly on top if you like a touch of savory balance.
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Bake the cookies for around 9 minutes. They should look slightly underbaked to keep their chewy texture. Let them cool on the tray for 15 minutes before moving to a wire rack—it helps them finish setting perfectly.
How to Serve Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful and tasty finish, sprinkle some flaky sea salt or drizzle melted dark chocolate over your cookies. You can also add chopped peanuts on top for extra crunch and visual appeal, making the cookies even more inviting.
Side Dishes
These chewy peanut butter cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, creamy vanilla ice cream, or even a hot cup of coffee or tea. The contrast of temperatures and flavors elevates the experience, turning a simple bite into a delightful treat.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests, serve these cookies on a rustic wooden board layered with parchment paper and sprinkles of crushed peanuts. Or get playful by sandwiching two cookies with a simple vanilla or chocolate frosting for an indulgent twist everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover cookies fresh by placing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay soft and chewy for up to 5 days, so you can enjoy the goodness without any rush.
Freezing
These cookies freeze beautifully! Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When stored this way, they’ll keep for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy your favorite Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe anytime.
Reheating
To revive the softness, warm frozen or refrigerated cookies in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. This little trick restores their chewy texture, just like fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture with little peanut bits. Just keep in mind that it might make your cookies slightly more textured but equally delicious.
Why are my cookies not chewy?
Chewiness depends on ingredients like brown sugar and proper baking time. Make sure you do not overbake the cookies; they should look slightly underbaked when removed from the oven to retain their chewy center.
Can I substitute gluten-free flour?
Yes, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can work well. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum or similar binders to maintain the chewy texture we love in this recipe.
Is it okay to add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Definitely! Adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon can personalize the cookies and add extra layers of flavor and texture.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
If your cookies are spreading too thin, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the dough firm up and the cookies keep their shape better while baking.
Final Thoughts
This Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is a rare gem that’s quick to make and incredibly satisfying with its rich flavor and perfect chewiness. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or just looking for a cookie that’s both soft and flavorful, this recipe will become a cherished go-to. I can’t wait for you to try making these cookies and enjoy every delightful bite just like I do!
Print
Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Total Time: 19 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These chewy peanut butter cookies are a perfect blend of rich peanut flavor, soft texture, and a hint of sweetness. Easy to prepare and baked to perfection, they offer a delightful treat with a classic crisscross pattern on top, optionally enhanced with a sprinkle of sea salt.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/3 cups unbleached flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Optional
- Sea salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and white granulated sugar. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg and pure vanilla extract into the wet mixture, stirring thoroughly to blend all flavors evenly.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the unbleached flour, baking soda, and baking powder into the bowl. Stir gently until the dough is just combined, taking care not to overmix to maintain chewiness.
- Scoop and Shape Dough: Use about 2 tablespoons of dough per cookie. Shape each portion into a ball and place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet.
- Create Crisscross Pattern: Press down gently on each dough ball with a fork to make the classic crisscross pattern. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top to enhance the flavor contrast.
- Bake Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 9 minutes. The cookies should appear slightly underbaked to achieve their chewy texture.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes to set properly before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Do not overbake the cookies to maintain their chewiness; slightly underbaked is perfect.
- Using natural creamy peanut butter is recommended for the best flavor.
- Softened butter should be at room temperature for easier mixing.
- For extra flavor balance, a sprinkle of sea salt on top contrasts nicely with the sweetness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and soft.
