Name: Peanut Butter Cookies That Are Quick, Easy and Irresistible
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Provides sweetness and helps with cookie structure); 1 cup Peanut Butter (Use creamy, branded peanut butter for best results); 1 large Egg (Acts as a binding agent); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor and aroma)

As I rummaged through my pantry earlier this week, I stumbled upon a nearly empty jar of creamy peanut butter, and an idea sparked: Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies! With just four simple ingredients, these cookies come together in a flash, making them the ultimate quick and easy treat for any peanut butter enthusiast. Chewy and rich, they manage to hit that sweet spot of indulgence while remaining gluten-free. Whether you’re looking for a delightful snack to enjoy with your coffee or a simple dessert to impress guests, these cookies have got you covered. Who knew a few pantry staples could yield such satisfying results? Curious about how to whip these up? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are these cookies so irresistible?

Simplicity, with just four ingredients, these flourless peanut butter cookies are magically easy to prepare. Irresistible texture: They offer a chewy, rich experience that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Quick baking time: Ready in only 30 minutes, they’re perfect for a last-minute treat. Crowd-pleaser: Serve them at gatherings and watch them disappear! Pair with a glass of cold milk or even alongside some of our favorite Honey Butter Chicken for a delightful meal. Don’t forget to store leftovers in a sealed container for up to a week for those unexpected cravings!

Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients

• For the Cookies

Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with cookie structure; avoid using alternatives for the best results.
Peanut Butter – The star ingredient that delivers rich flavor; use creamy, branded peanut butter (e.g., Jif, Skippy) for perfect consistency.
Egg – Acts as a binding agent, giving moisture and helping the cookies hold together.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor and aroma of the peanut butter cookies, making them even more delectable.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper; this will prevent the cookies from sticking. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable, setting you up for success with your flourless Peanut Butter Cookies.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, creamy peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Using a stand mixer or a handheld mixer, blend these ingredients together for about 8-10 minutes until fully combined. You should achieve a somewhat crumbly dough texture; don’t worry, it will come together nicely when shaped.

Step 3: Shape the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, portion out the dough and roll it into balls, placing them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. This spacing ensures that the flourless Peanut Butter Cookies have room to spread during baking, creating that signature chewy look and texture that everyone loves!

Step 4: Flatten the Cookies
Gently flatten each cookie ball using the tines of a fork to create a crisscross pattern on top. This not only adds a decorative touch to your flourless peanut butter cookies but also helps them bake evenly. Make sure each cookie retains a mound shape to keep the insides soft and chewy once baked.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let the cookies bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they are done when they appear set and the tops no longer look shiny. The subtle golden color will indicate they are perfectly baked and ready to be enjoyed.

Step 6: Cool the Cookies
After baking, allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the flourless Peanut Butter Cookies firm up a bit before you transfer them. After the resting period, carefully move them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their chewy texture.

Peanut Butter Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore the exciting twists you can put on these classic peanut butter cookies to make them your very own!

Crunchy Peanut Butter: Substitute creamy peanut butter for crunchy for delightful texture and extra nutty flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Add a handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich, chocolatey indulgence that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
Nutty Delight: Toss in chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for a satisfying crunch. This adds an earthy richness that will have everyone reaching for more.
Cinnamon Twist: Stir in a teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor that elevates the classic cookie experience. It adds a cozy touch that’s perfect for any season.
Oatmeal Surprise: Mix in quick oats for more hearty cookies. This gives a lovely chewiness and makes them even more satisfying.
Peanut Butter Swirl: Drizzle melted chocolate or white chocolate over the cooled cookies for a beautiful presentation and additional richness. A simple but elegant twist!
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick that enhances the richness of the peanut butter. This bold choice will certainly delight those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Try Almond Flour: For a nutty undertone and an alternative texture, experiment with almond flour in place of granulated sugar. It’s a creative way to keep things gluten-free while keeping the sweetness intact.

Now that you’ve got plenty of ideas, why not try your hand at some of our other irresistible recipes like Cajun Salmon or indulge in some fun with Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies? Customizing your baking adventures has never been so enjoyable!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Cookies

• Choose the Right Peanut Butter: Use creamy, pre-packaged peanut butter for the best texture; natural kinds can make cookies oily.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix only until fully combined; overmixing can lead to dry cookies.

• Proper Dough Portioning: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized dough balls, ensuring they bake uniformly.

• Chill If Needed: If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 20-30 minutes before shaping into balls.

• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; they should be slightly golden and no longer shiny for perfect results.

Make Ahead Options

These flourless peanut butter cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then refrigerating it in an airtight container. This will help the flavors meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is just as delicious. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and proceed with your baking instructions. For longer storage, you can also freeze the rolled cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just allow them to thaw in the fridge before baking for perfectly chewy cookies that are sure to please!

What to Serve with Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

Elevate your sweet experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement these rich, chewy cookies.

Cold Milk: The classic choice; its creamy texture and mild flavor balance the intense richness of peanut butter, making every bite delightful.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of freshness and acidity from seasonal fruits adds a delightful contrast to the sweet, nutty flavors of the cookies.
Coffee: The warmth and bitterness of coffee beautifully counteract the sweetness, creating a perfect afternoon treat.
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Transform dessert by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a heavenly twist, full of melting goodness!
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over your cookies for a heavenly indulgence that all chocolate lovers will appreciate.
Tea: Pairing with a calming cup of tea offers a soothing experience, balancing the sweetness while enhancing those nutty flavors.
Nutty Trail Mix: Sprinkle a handful of nutty trail mix on the side for crunchy texture and added complexity, complimenting the peanut butter goodness perfectly.
Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce elevates these cookies to gourmet status, adding a rich, buttery sweetness that’s irresistible.
Milkshakes: Pair with a creamy peanut butter milkshake for a decadent treat that enhances the cookie’s flavor while creating a fun indulgence!

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Cookies

Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, keep the cookies in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy a warm treat, reheat frozen cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until just warmed through.

Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of peanut butter should I use?
Absolutely, for the best results, use creamy, store-bought peanut butter brands like Jif or Skippy. These types have a smooth consistency and optimal fat content, ensuring your cookies maintain the right chewiness. Natural or homemade peanut butters often have too much oil, which can result in overly greasy cookies.

How should I store my peanut butter cookies?
You can store these delicious cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you have leftovers, make sure to keep them sealed to retain freshness. For longer storage, freezing is a great option—just place baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag and keep them for up to 3 months. For best flavor, let them thaw in the fridge before enjoying.

Can I freeze peanut butter cookies?
Yes, freezing is a wonderful way to enjoy these treats later! To freeze, first lay the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them into a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, and enjoy!

Why did my peanut butter cookies turn out too dry?
If your cookies are dry, it’s possibly due to overmixing the dough or not measuring the ingredients correctly. Mix the ingredients just until combined and avoid packing the sugar too tightly when measuring. If the dough feels crumbly, try adding a splash of milk or another egg to improve moisture.

Are flourless peanut butter cookies gluten-free?
Yes, these cookies are indeed gluten-free! Since there’s no flour used in the recipe, they’re a fantastic option for anyone following a gluten-free diet. Just keep in mind, if you serve them to guests, check that all other ingredients (like the vanilla extract) are also certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.