Description
These easy peanut butter cookies require just four simple ingredients and come together in under 20 minutes. Soft in the center with a slightly crisp edge and a classic crisscross fork pattern, they are a perfect sweet treat for peanut butter lovers looking for a quick and delicious homemade cookie.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the cookies evenly.
- Mix ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, forming a dough.
- Shape the dough: Roll the dough into small balls about one tablespoon each. Place them evenly spaced on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Create crisscross pattern: Use a fork to gently flatten each dough ball, pressing down to create a crisscross pattern on the top of the cookies.
- Bake cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, watching carefully for the edges to set while the centers remain soft.
- Cool cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, which helps them firm up slightly, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Use either smooth or crunchy peanut butter depending on your texture preference.
- Do not overbake to maintain a soft center; edges should be set but cookies still soft inside.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For a lower sugar option, reduce granulated sugar amount slightly or use a sugar substitute appropriate for baking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American