Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

“`html

If you’ve been on the hunt for a treat that hits just the right balance between tender softness and that irresistible chewy bite, look no further than these Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies. This old-fashioned favorite wraps the rich, nutty flavor of creamy peanut butter in a delightfully satisfying texture, making each bite feel like a warm hug from the inside out. Whether you’re baking to satisfy a sweet craving or looking for the perfect cookie to share with friends and family, these cookies deliver simplicity and joy with every crumb.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies require a handful of simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. Each one plays an essential role in creating that wonderfully soft texture, subtle rise, and deep peanut flavor that makes these cookies stand out.

• 1 cup smooth peanut butter: The star ingredient that gives these cookies their luscious peanut flavor and creamy texture.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the richness of the peanut butter.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps create that famous chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Provides a gentle lift to keep the cookies soft instead of flat and dense.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle flavor enhancer that adds warmth and depth.
• Pinch of salt (optional): Perfect for unlocking and balancing the flavors, especially if your peanut butter is unsalted.
• Extra granulated sugar for rolling (optional): For a touch of sparkle and crunch on the cookie’s surface.

How to Make Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat. This prevents sticking and helps the cookies bake evenly, which is crucial for achieving that soft and chewy texture.

Step 2: Mix the Magic

In a large bowl, stir together the smooth peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, baking soda, and vanilla extract until everything is beautifully combined and silky smooth. Add a pinch of salt here, if using, to really elevate the flavors. This simple mixture is what builds the tender crumb and classic peanut butter taste.

Step 3: Shape for Perfection

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, roll the dough into roughly 1-inch diameter balls. For an extra special touch, roll each dough ball in extra granulated sugar before placing them on your baking sheet. This creates a lovely, sparkly crunch that contrasts perfectly with the chewy interior.

Step 4: Bake Just Right

Space your dough balls evenly on the prepared baking sheet, then gently press down on the tops to flatten slightly. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges appear lightly golden and the cookies are set. This short bake time is essential for keeping these cookies soft and chewy rather than dry or brittle.

Step 5: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to set before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps them firm up just enough while preserving that irresistible chewiness. Then, simply enjoy your freshly baked Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies with a big smile!

How to Serve Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Garnishes

While these cookies shine on their own, adding a sprinkle of coarse sea salt on top before baking can create a lovely contrast to the sweetness. For a festive touch, try dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling melted chocolate on cooled cookies for a decorative and tasty finish.

Side Dishes

Pairing these peanut butter cookies with a cold glass of milk is a timeless classic that never fails. For a more decadent option, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream to create indulgent ice cream sandwiches that will wow everyone at your next gathering.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gift-giving, arrange your Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies on a colorful platter mixed with other cookie varieties such as chocolate chip or oatmeal raisin. You can also crumble them over desserts like yogurt or peanut butter pie to add a delightful crunch and boost of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your peanut butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and fresh for up to a week, making them perfect to bake in advance for any occasion.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, simply put them straight into the oven, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time. Fully baked cookies can also be frozen with parchment paper layers to prevent sticking and thawed at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

If you find your cookies a bit too soft after storage or thawing, refresh them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 to 10 minutes. This will bring back a slight crisp to the edges while maintaining that amazing chewiness inside.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of smooth?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add extra texture and nuttiness, giving your cookies a lovely crunch. Keep in mind it might slightly change the overall cookie texture compared to using smooth peanut butter.

What if my dough is too sticky to handle?

If your dough feels sticky, pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up. Also, dusting your hands with a touch of flour while rolling can help keep things neat and manageable.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Great news: this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn’t include any flour. Just ensure your baking soda and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have sensitivities.

Why are my cookies flat?

Flat cookies usually result from using too soft or melted peanut butter, old baking soda, or overmixing the dough. Using fresh ingredients and gentle mixing will encourage your cookies to hold their shape nicely.

Can I add oats to the recipe?

Yes! Adding about half a cup of rolled oats can boost the chewiness and add a lovely nutty dimension. Just be mindful that more oats might require slight adjustments to your peanut butter or sugar to keep the dough cohesive.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, soft cookie loaded with peanut butter flavor, and this Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies recipe captures that magic perfectly. I can’t wait for you to try baking this simple yet scrumptious treat—it’s bound to become one of your all-time favorites, whether for a cozy afternoon snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert. Grab your mixing bowl and prepare to delight in every chewy, buttery bite!

“`

Print