When it comes to comfort baking, few treats satisfy like a thick, chewy peanut butter cookie. Perfectly golden on the outside, soft and gooey on the inside, these cookies are a must-try for any peanut butter lover. Whether you’re baking for a party, a cozy night in, or just because, this simple recipe delivers bakery-quality cookies every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Texture: Thick and chewy with a melt-in-your-mouth softness.
  • Quick & Easy: Only 10 minutes of prep time and minimal cleanup.
  • Classic Flavor: That timeless peanut butter taste you know and love, elevated to perfection.

Ingredients

Let’s break down what you’ll need. All ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe super convenient!

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
  • ½ cup granulated sugar: For that classic sweetness.
  • ½ cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
  • ½ cup creamy peanut butter: Go for your favorite brand, but make sure it’s the classic, not natural, variety for the best consistency.
  • 1 large egg: Brings it all together.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor and gives it a homemade touch.
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of a perfectly thick cookie.
  • 1 tsp baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly while baking.
  • ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

  • Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugars

  • In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.

3. Add the Wet Ingredients

  • Mix in the peanut butter, followed by the egg and vanilla extract. Beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

4. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

  • Gradually add the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir until the dough comes together, but avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

5. Shape and Pattern the Dough

  • Roll the dough into 1½-inch balls (about the size of a ping pong ball) and place them 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
  • Using a fork, gently press down on each dough ball twice—once vertically and once horizontally—to create the signature crisscross pattern.

6. Bake to Perfection

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes. The cookies should look set around the edges but slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

7. Cool and Enjoy

  • Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm for an ultra-gooey texture, or store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and a room-temperature egg ensure even mixing.
  • Don’t Overbake: Pull them out when they look slightly underdone for that perfect chewy texture.
  • Add a Twist: Stir in chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for extra indulgence.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds a delightful crunch to these cookies.

Can I freeze the dough?
Yes! Roll the dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and bake directly from frozen—just add 1–2 minutes to the baking time.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute granulated sugar, but the cookies may lose a bit of their chewiness.

With this recipe in your arsenal, you’re just 30 minutes away from cookie bliss. So grab your mixing bowl and preheat that oven—these thick and chewy peanut butter cookies are calling your name!