Easy Peanut Butter Cookies
Quick and easy peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat made with just five pantry ingredients. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re craving a snack or need a sweet addition to your dessert table. With no flour or butter involved, this simple recipe stands out for its effortless preparation and delicious flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with just five common pantry items, these cookies are easy to whip up anytime.
- No Flour or Butter: Perfect for those looking to avoid gluten or reduce fats in their diet without sacrificing taste.
- Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes, you can have fresh cookies ready to enjoy, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.
- Customizable Delight: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: These cookies are easy enough for kids to help make, turning baking into a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Electric mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Cookie scoop (or tablespoon)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort by blending ingredients quickly to achieve a smooth dough.
- Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking and perfect presentation.
- Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for cookies to bake evenly without sticking.
Ingredients
Quick and easy peanut butter cookies made with only 5 pantry ingredients and no flour or butter! Simple, effortless, and delicious!
Pantry Essentials
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus more for rolling, optional)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup creamy full-fat peanut butter (see note)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
How to Make Easy Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
Using an electric mixer, blend together all the ingredients until combined. The mixture should be smooth and thick after about 2-3 minutes of mixing.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Using a heaping tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop out 1 & 1/4-inch balls of dough. Knead and roll them in your palms until they feel soft and smooth. For an extra touch of sweetness, you can roll the balls in granulated sugar.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Transfer the cookie dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each ball.
Step 5: Create the Pattern
Press down on each cookie with the back of a fork. Then press again from the opposite direction to form a criss-cross pattern on top. To prevent sticking, dip the fork tines in granulated sugar between cookies.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes or until the tops are lightly browned. Remember that ovens vary; your cookies should be slightly soft when pressed but will firm up as they cool.
Step 7: Cool Down
Remove from oven and let cool on the tray for about 5 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Serve these delicious easy peanut butter cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat!
How to Serve Easy Peanut Butter Cookies
Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be enhanced with a few serving ideas. Whether you want something classic or a bit more adventurous, here are some suggestions.
With Milk
- A tall glass of cold milk perfectly complements the rich taste of peanut butter cookies, making for a nostalgic and comforting treat.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Take two cookies and sandwich your favorite ice cream in between for a delicious dessert that’s perfect for warm days.
Topped with Chocolate
- Drizzle some melted chocolate over the cookies or dip half of each cookie in chocolate for an added layer of sweetness.
As a Breakfast Treat
- Enjoy these cookies alongside your morning coffee or tea for a quick breakfast that still feels indulgent.
Gift-Wrapping
- Package these cookies in a cute box or jar as homemade gifts. They make thoughtful treats for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.
Crumbled Over Dessert
- Crumble the cookies over ice cream, yogurt, or even pancakes to add texture and flavor to your favorite dishes.
How to Perfect Easy Peanut Butter Cookies
To achieve the best results with your Easy Peanut Butter Cookies, consider these helpful tips.
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Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the ingredients combine smoothly, leading to a better texture in your cookies.
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Don’t overmix: Blend the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Chill the dough: If time allows, chill your cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This can enhance flavor and reduce spreading during baking.
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Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Ovens vary, so remove them when they are lightly browned but still soft in the center.
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Store properly: For maximum freshness, store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Peanut Butter Cookies
Pairing side dishes with Easy Peanut Butter Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the cookies.
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Chocolate Milkshake: This creamy treat pairs well with peanut butter flavors and makes for a decadent combination.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit alongside your cookies for a wholesome dessert option.
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Coffee: A warm cup of coffee complements the flavors of peanut butter beautifully while providing a nice contrast in temperature.
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Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese to create an interesting contrast with sweet cookies.
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Rice Crispy Treats: These chewy snacks provide a fun textural contrast and enhance the sweet experience when served together.
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Homemade Hot Chocolate: Serve this cozy drink alongside your cookies for a comforting dessert experience.
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Banana Slices: Fresh banana slices add natural sweetness and pair well with peanut butter flavors, making each bite delightful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Easy Peanut Butter Cookies can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Skipping the mixer: Mixing by hand can lead to uneven consistency. Use an electric mixer for a smooth and thick dough.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can affect texture and taste. Always use measuring cups for precision.
- Overbaking the cookies: Baking too long makes them hard instead of soft. Keep an eye on them and take them out when they are lightly brown.
- Using the wrong type of peanut butter: Natural peanut butter can yield different results. Stick with creamy, full-fat peanut butter for the best flavor and texture.
- Ignoring cooling time: Letting cookies cool on the tray is key to achieving the right firmness. Don’t rush this step!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Easy Peanut Butter Cookies
- Freeze in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Peanut Butter Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for 10-15 seconds; enjoy warm!
- Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat; flip after a few seconds until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Peanut Butter Cookies.
How do I make Easy Peanut Butter Cookies without flour?
You can make these cookies using just peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla—no flour needed!
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can! Crunchy peanut butter will add texture but may change the overall consistency slightly.
What variations can I try with Easy Peanut Butter Cookies?
Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for extra flavor!
How do I store my leftover Easy Peanut Butter Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to maintain freshness.
Final Thoughts
Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are not only simple to make but also offer delightful versatility. You can customize them with various mix-ins or toppings based on your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a cozy treat that satisfies every craving!
Easy Peanut Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful simplicity of Easy Peanut Butter Cookies, a quick treat that requires just five common pantry ingredients. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a sweet snack or an easy dessert to impress guests. With no flour or butter needed, this recipe is not only effortless but also caters to those seeking gluten-free or lower-fat options without compromising flavor. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up warm, soft cookies that are rich in peanut butter goodness. Customize them with chocolate chips or nuts for a personalized touch and enjoy a fun baking experience with family.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus more for rolling)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup creamy full-fat peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients using an electric mixer until smooth.
- Using a cookie scoop, form dough into 1 & 1/4-inch balls and optionally roll them in granulated sugar.
- Place cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each ball with a fork to create a criss-cross pattern.
- Bake for about 10 minutes until lightly browned but still soft in the center.
- Let cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (about 22g)
- Calories: 106
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 19mg
