Description
Peanut Butter Cookies
For an extra crunch, try this nutty twist on the original recipe!
Ingredients:
1 cup chunky peanut butter
¾ cup sugar
1 large egg
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a tray with parchment.
Combine chunky peanut butter, sugar, and egg.
Roll dough, flatten with a fork, and bake for 10-12 minutes.
Let cool and enjoy with a glass of milk!
#CrunchyPeanutButterTreats
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect cookies every time. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly combine 1 cup of chunky peanut butter, ¾ cup of sugar, and 1 large egg until a uniform dough forms. The dough will be thick and oily. Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use the tines of a fork to press down on each ball, creating a classic criss-cross pattern and flattening the cookie to about ½ inch thick. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just set and lightly golden. The cookies will be soft when hot but firm up as they cool.
Serving Suggestions
These classic cookies are incredibly versatile. For the ultimate treat, serve them warm with a cold glass of milk. For a decadent dessert, sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. Consider drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkling them with a touch of sea salt before baking for a gourmet touch.
How-to Summary
In short: Mix peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Roll into balls, flatten with a fork in a criss-cross pattern, and bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Let cool completely on the baking sheet for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use smooth peanut butter instead?
Yes, but the cookies will lack the signature crunch. Chunky peanut butter provides texture and a more authentic flavor.
Why are my cookies spreading too much?
This usually means your dough was too warm or the oven wasn’t hot enough. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature, not warm, and always preheat the oven fully.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Fold in ½ cup of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips after combining the main ingredients for a delicious variation.
How should I store these cookies?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just ensure your peanut butter and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if you have a severe allergy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over-mixing the dough, as this can make the cookies tough. Do not over-bake them; they will continue to cook on the hot baking sheet after removal from the oven. For the iconic look, don’t skip the fork-pressing step—it ensures even baking. Finally, resist the urge to move the cookies immediately after baking; let them cool on the sheet for at least 5 minutes to set.
Conclusion
This simple three-ingredient peanut butter cookie recipe proves that delicious treats don’t require complicated steps or a long list of ingredients. The result is a batch of irresistibly crunchy, nutty, and sweet cookies that are perfect for any occasion. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve bakery-quality results right in your own kitchen. Happy baking!
