These Peanut Butter Cookies are the perfect combination of simplicity and flavor. Made with just a handful of ingredients, they come together quickly for a sweet treat that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you love crunchy or creamy peanut butter, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients
1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
¾ cup sugar (or substitute with honey)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Shape & Flatten: Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to press a crisscross pattern on each cookie.
Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 12-15 cookies, depending on the size of the dough balls. From start to finish, it takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare and bake, with a few extra minutes for cooling.
Variations
Chocolate Chips: I love adding chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor. Just fold in about ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough.
Chopped Pecans: For a bit of crunch, I sometimes add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough. About ½ cup works perfectly.
Honey Substitute: If I’m looking to make the recipe a bit healthier, I substitute sugar with honey for a natural sweetness.
Salted Version: If I want a sweet and salty combo, I sprinkle a little sea salt on top of the cookies before baking.
Storage/Reheating
I store these Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If I want them to last longer, I can freeze them for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to enjoy a cookie, I simply thaw it at room temperature or warm it up in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked taste.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, I can definitely use crunchy peanut butter if I prefer a bit more texture in my cookies. The recipe will turn out great either way.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
I know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden, and the center looks set. I avoid overbaking them to keep them soft and chewy.
Can I make these cookies without eggs?
Yes, if I need an egg-free version, I can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or try a chia egg.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
I can add in some extras like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a dash of cinnamon or sea salt for an added twist.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t require any flour. However, I make sure to check that my peanut butter and other ingredients are gluten-free if that’s a concern.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Cookies are the ultimate go-to when I want a quick, delicious, and gluten-free treat. The combination of peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla creates a perfect balance of flavors, and the recipe is so easy to follow. Whether I’m making them for myself or sharing with others, they’re always a hit.
Recipe:

Peanut Butter Cookies
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- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 cookies
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Peanut Butter Cookies are a simple yet flavorful treat made with just a few ingredients. Soft and chewy, they offer a perfect balance of peanut butter and sweetness.
Ingredients
1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
¾ cup sugar (or substitute with honey)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Shape & Flatten: Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to press a crisscross pattern on each cookie.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For variations, add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a dash of sea salt.
To make the recipe healthier, substitute honey for sugar.
These cookies are naturally gluten-free but check ingredients if necessary.
Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg