Perfectly Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.

1. Mix the Ingredients:

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the mixture until it’s smooth and creamy.
• Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to ensure your cookies remain soft.

1. Shape the Cookies:

• Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. If desired, roll each ball in granulated sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and a sparkling finish.
• Place the cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

1. Flatten the Cookies:

• For the classic crisscross pattern, use the back of a fork to gently press down on each cookie dough ball, making a crisscross pattern on top. This also helps the cookies bake evenly.

1. Bake:

• Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look soft. Remove them from the oven, as they will continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet.

1. Cool:

• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps them set and enhances their chewy texture.

Tips for Perfectly Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your peanut butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Do Not Overbake: The key to chewy cookies is to take them out of the oven while they are still slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
• Chill the Dough (Optional): For a thicker cookie, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent excessive spreading.
• Add Chocolate Chips or Nuts: For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped peanuts to the dough for extra flavor and texture.

Storing Your Cookies

• At Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Conclusion

These perfectly chewy peanut butter cookies are simple to make and deliver big flavor in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, this recipe is a must-try. Serve them warm with a glass of milk or share them with friends and family—their irresistible taste and chewy texture will leave everyone wanting more! Enjoy the sweet, nutty goodness of homemade peanut butter cookies anytime you like.