The Perfect Soft and Chewy Cookie for Every Occasion
If you’re searching for a cookie that perfectly blends nostalgia and flavor, look no further than Soft Peanut Butter Cookies! With their chewy centers, golden edges, and rich nutty aroma, these cookies deliver comfort in every bite.
Did you know peanut butter cookies have been around since the early 1900s, when peanut butter first became widely available? They quickly became a household favorite — and it’s no wonder why. This recipe captures that same old-fashioned goodness while staying wonderfully simple and quick to make.
Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies come together in minutes using pantry staples. If you loved our Chocolate Chip Cookies, you’re going to fall head over heels for this nutty twist! So grab your mixing bowl — it’s time to bake some happiness.
🍪 What Are Soft Peanut Butter Cookies?
Soft Peanut Butter Cookies are exactly what their name promises: melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are rich, tender, and filled with creamy peanut butter flavor. Each bite feels like a warm hug from childhood — sweet, nutty, and perfectly comforting.
It’s easy to see why they’ve become a classic. The combination of peanut butter’s natural richness and the cookie’s soft, chewy texture is irresistible. They’re not just a dessert — they’re a mood booster!
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why these Soft Peanut Butter Cookies will become your go-to treat:
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🥜 Incredible Texture: Soft, chewy centers with just the right amount of crisp around the edges.
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💰 Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients you probably already have.
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🍫 Totally Customizable: Add chocolate chips, sea salt, or chopped nuts for endless variations.
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🕒 Quick & Easy: Just one bowl, a few ingredients, and 20 minutes to cookie bliss.
If you enjoy homey classics like Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, this recipe will steal your heart with its nutty twist.
🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this easy peanut butter cookie recipe, gather:
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1 cup creamy peanut butter
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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(Optional) Pinch of salt – enhances flavor, especially if using natural peanut butter
That’s it! Just a handful of ingredients for a cookie that tastes like pure joy.
👩🍳 How to Make Soft Peanut Butter Cookies
Quick Overview
🕐 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
🍪 Yield: About 12–14 cookies
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. -
Mix the Base
In a large bowl, combine peanut butter and sugar. Stir until smooth and well blended. -
Add the Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is evenly incorporated. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure a uniform texture. -
Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle in baking soda (and salt if using). Gently fold until just combined — avoid overmixing to keep the cookies soft. -
Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. -
Create the Classic Pattern
Use a fork to gently press a crisscross pattern on top of each cookie — it’s not just iconic, it helps them bake evenly too! -
Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They’ll still be soft in the center — that’s the secret to their chewiness. -
Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Grab a glass of milk and enjoy your warm, soft peanut butter cookies!
☕ What to Serve Soft Peanut Butter Cookies With
These cookies pair beautifully with:
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🥛 A cold glass of milk — the classic combo!
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🍦 Vanilla or chocolate ice cream — for a decadent cookie sandwich.
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☕ A cup of coffee, cappuccino, or chai — to complement the nutty sweetness.
They also make a sweet homemade gift when wrapped in parchment and twine.
💡 Tips for the Best Soft Peanut Butter Cookies
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Use creamy peanut butter: It gives a smoother texture than chunky varieties.
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For richer flavor: Try natural peanut butter (stirred well before measuring).
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Don’t overbake: They should look slightly underdone — they’ll firm up as they cool.
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Mix-ins welcome: Chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt take them to the next level.
🧊 Storing & Freezing
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At Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
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In the Freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag.
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Reheat: Microwave a cookie for 8–10 seconds for that just-baked softness.
You can also freeze the unbaked dough balls and bake them straight from the freezer — just add 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
Soft Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter Natural peanut butter can enhance flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- a pinch salt Optional for added flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine creamy peanut butter and granulated sugar. Stir until smooth.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Sprinkle in baking soda and salt (if using) and fold gently until well mixed.
- Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to drop dough balls onto a lined baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Gently press down the tops with a fork to create a criss-cross pattern.
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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