Are you craving a warm, gooey peanut butter cookie? This guide will walk you through making the perfect batch, from simple ingredients to achieving that signature criss-cross top. Let's get baking!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, requiring ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show! Choose your favorite brand.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides sweetness and structure.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deeper flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: The leavening agent, making your cookies rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to bake perfect peanut butter cookies every time:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper – this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. This is best done with an electric mixer, but you can do it by hand if you're feeling strong! Beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 4: Shape Your Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Use a fork to create the classic criss-cross pattern on top of each cookie. This is optional, but it adds a nice touch!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, enjoy your warm, gooey peanut butter cookies!
Tips for the Perfect Peanut Butter Cookie:
- Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Add chocolate chips: Elevate your cookies by adding chocolate chips or other mix-ins.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer less sweet cookies, reduce the amount of sugar.
- Use different types of peanut butter: Experiment with crunchy peanut butter for a different texture.
FAQs:
Q: Can I freeze peanut butter cookie dough?
A: Yes! Freeze the cookie dough balls before baking for easy baking later.
Q: How long do peanut butter cookies last?
A: Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they'll last for about a week.
With these simple steps and tips, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious homemade peanut butter cookies that everyone will love! Happy baking!
