Simple Peanut Butter Cookies: A No-Fail Recipe for Delicious Treats
Are you craving a classic, melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter cookie? Look no further! This simple recipe delivers on flavor and texture without requiring a culinary degree. Perfect for baking with kids or a quick afternoon treat, these cookies are guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses simple, pantry-staple ingredients, making it incredibly convenient. You likely already have everything you need!
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show! Use your favorite brand.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps bind the cookies.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deeper caramel flavor.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent for a perfectly chewy texture.
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the peanut butter flavor.
Easy-Peasy Instructions:
This recipe is designed for simplicity. Even novice bakers will find it a breeze!
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a snap.
- Cream Together: In a medium bowl, cream together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined. A hand mixer or a good old-fashioned wooden spoon will do the trick!
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Stir in the baking soda (and salt, if using) until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Flatten the Cookies: Use a fork to flatten each ball, creating a criss-cross pattern. This is a classic peanut butter cookie touch!
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as ovens can vary.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Perfect Peanut Butter Cookie:
- Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Add-ins: Get creative! Try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even pretzels for extra flavor and texture.
- Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They're best enjoyed fresh, but they'll still be delicious after a few days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
A: Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful textural contrast to your cookies.
Q: What if my cookies are too soft?
A: Next time, try baking them for a minute or two longer. You might also consider reducing the amount of brown sugar slightly.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Yes! Scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
This simple peanut butter cookie recipe is a guaranteed success. Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful treats! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out!
