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Classic Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

4.8 from 75 reviews

Deliciously soft and chewy classic peanut butter cookies that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, delivering a nostalgic and comforting treat with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the cookie dough

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (use smooth peanut butter for best results)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed (light or dark brown sugar can be used)
  • 2 large eggs (make sure they are at room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Cream them together thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed.
  5. Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a soft texture in the cookies.
  6. Scoop the Dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between each scoop for spreading.
  7. Flatten and Decorate: Use the tines of a fork to lightly press down on each cookie scoop, creating a classic crisscross pattern on top.
  8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn lightly golden, indicating perfect doneness.
  9. Cool and Enjoy: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Notes

  • For an extra touch, try adding mix-ins such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or butterscotch chips for additional flavor and texture.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
  • For longer storage, freeze cookies in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to three months.
  • Reheat frozen or stored cookies in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their softness before serving.
  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure consistent dough texture and better mixing.
  • Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies soft; they will continue to firm up slightly as they cool.

Keywords: peanut butter cookies, soft cookies, classic cookies, easy dessert, chewy cookies, peanut butter dessert