Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe

Peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat that blend rich nuttiness with a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this recipe promises to deliver cookies that are soft, chewy, and bursting with peanut butter flavor. Let’s dive into how you can create these delectable delights right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: Opt for a smooth, creamy variety to ensure a consistent texture in your cookies.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and helps to create a tender cookie crumb.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, holding the dough together while baking.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile with a hint of aromatic sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread just enough.
• A pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. You can use a spatula or a hand mixer for this step, whichever you prefer.
3. Form Dough Balls: Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands. Place each ball onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them to allow for spreading during baking.
4. Create Crosshatch Pattern: Using a fork, gently press down on each dough ball to create a crosshatch pattern on the top of the cookies. This not only looks appealing but also helps the cookies bake evenly.
5. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown. Be careful not to overbake; the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
6. Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked peanut butter cookies with a glass of cold milk or your favorite hot beverage!

Tips for Success:

• Creamy Peanut Butter: Use a creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture. Chunky peanut butter can be used if you prefer a bit of crunch in your cookies.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg is at room temperature before mixing it into the dough. This helps achieve a more uniform texture.
• Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for longer storage.

Final Thoughts:

With just a handful of pantry staples and a little time in the kitchen, you can whip up a batch of irresistible peanut butter cookies that are sure to please everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and delivers consistently delicious results. So, what are you waiting for? Get baking and treat yourself to the delightful taste of homemade peanut butter cookies today!