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Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Emily
Classic soft and chewy peanut butter cookies with rich nutty flavor and the iconic criss-cross fork pattern. Perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
chilling time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 32 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 185 kcal

Equipment

  • Stand mixer or electric hand mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheets
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter not natural or oil-separated
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar plus extra for rolling
  • ¾ cup light brown sugar packed
  • 2 large eggs room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch for extra softness

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream together peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed for 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract until combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch.
  • Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
  • Cover bowl and refrigerate dough for at least 1 hour to firm up the butter.
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  • Scoop dough into 1½-tablespoon portions and roll into smooth balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar.
  • Place cookies 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Use a fork to press criss-cross pattern on top of each cookie.
  • Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers still look slightly underdone.
  • Cool cookies on baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Use commercial creamy peanut butter for best results, not natural peanut butter with oil separation
  • Chilling dough is essential for proper texture and prevents excessive spreading
  • Do not overbake, cookies continue to set on the hot pan after removal from oven
  • Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
  • Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months and baked from frozen
Keyword peanut butter cookies