Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Soft and chewy peanut butter cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a birthday, or simply craving something sweet, these Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies will satisfy your taste buds. Their rich, nutty flavor combined with a sprinkle of sea salt makes them irresistible. Plus, they come together in just 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 8 minutes of baking, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies in no time.
• Deliciously Chewy: These cookies have the perfect chewy texture that melts in your mouth, making each bite a delight.
• Versatile Treat: Great for parties, lunchboxes, or an afternoon snack, these cookies fit into any setting.
• Easy Ingredients: Most ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe easy to whip up whenever the craving strikes.
• Customizable Flavor: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for added variety and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Fork
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Baking sheet: Using a quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Fork: A fork is vital for creating that classic crisscross pattern on the cookies.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick (softened))
• 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
• 3/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/3 cups unbleached flour
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• sea salt (optional)

How to Make Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Soften the Butter

Soften the butter in the microwave for about 20 seconds. If it’s not quite soft enough, heat it for an additional 5 seconds.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, add the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and white sugar. Mix well until smooth.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and pure vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until fully combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Slowly stir in the unbleached flour along with the baking soda and baking powder until just combined.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out dough using about 2 tablespoons per cookie. Roll into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Create Classic Patterns

Use a fork to create horizontal and vertical lines on each cookie ball to give them that traditional peanut butter cookie look. Flatten slightly while doing this.

Step 8: Bake

Sprinkle the tops with sea salt if desired. Bake in preheated oven for about 9 minutes. The cookies may look pale and slightly under-baked but will continue cooking as they cool.

Step 9: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for approximately 15 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies!

How to Serve Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Serving chewy peanut butter cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ideas to enjoy these treats in various ways.

With a Glass of Milk

• Milk pairs wonderfully with the rich flavor of peanut butter, making it a classic combination.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream for a deliciously creamy treat.

Warm with Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle warm cookies with chocolate sauce for an indulgent dessert that satisfies any sweet tooth.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a beautiful platter alongside fresh fruit or other desserts to impress your guests.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a lovely snack break.

Pin for later!

How to Perfect Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

To achieve the perfect chewy texture in your peanut butter cookies, follow these simple tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and chewy.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking helps maintain their shape and enhances flavor.

• Bake until slightly underdone: Remove them from the oven when they look just set; they will continue cooking as they cool.

• Experiment with add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture variations.

Best Side Dishes for Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

These chewy peanut butter cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their taste. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad

2. A light and refreshing option that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream

4. Creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that brings out the flavors of peanut butter.

5. Chocolate Milkshake

6. A thick, indulgent milkshake pairs perfectly with chewy cookies for a decadent treat.

7. Cheese Platter

8. A selection of cheeses can provide a savory counterpart to the sweet cookies, offering a nice contrast.

9. Coffee Cake

10. A slice of coffee cake makes an excellent side, especially during brunch or afternoon tea.

11. Caramel Dip

12. Serve warm caramel dip on the side for dipping, adding an extra layer of sweetness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making chewy peanut butter cookies is simple, but some common mistakes can lead to disappointing results.

• Overmixing the dough – Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature – An oven that’s too hot or too cool can change your cookie’s texture. Always use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly – Using too much flour can make cookies dry. Use a kitchen scale or the spoon-and-level method for precise measurements.
• Skipping the chilling step – Chilling the dough helps control spread and enhances flavor. If time allows, chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can disrupt the mixing process. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even blending.

Pin for later!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container once solid.
• They can be stored for up to three months.

Reheating Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a minute or two, covering with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making chewy peanut butter cookies, you’ve come to the right place!

How do I make my Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies softer?

To achieve softer chewy peanut butter cookies, ensure not to overbake them and consider adding an extra egg yolk.

Can I freeze my Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies?

Yes! You can freeze these delicious cookies in an airtight container for up to three months without losing their wonderful taste.

What can I add to my Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies?

Consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even pieces of Reese’s candy for extra flavor and texture.

Why did my Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies spread too much?

Excessive spreading often occurs due to warm dough or insufficient flour. Make sure your dough is chilled before baking and measure flour accurately.

Final Thoughts

These chewy peanut butter cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as they are, or customize with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts. They’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or sharing with friends and family. Try this recipe today, and experience the joy of homemade treats!