Let me share with you a true gem of a treat: this Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. These cookies strike the perfect balance between soft and chewy, with that rich, nutty peanut butter flavor that makes every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you prefer creamy or chunky peanut butter, these cookies manage to deliver a deeply satisfying texture and taste that feels homemade but impressively delicious. They’re quick to whip up and guaranteed to bring smiles to everyone around, making them an absolute favorite to keep on repeat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe means gathering some truly simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding sweetness, moisture, or that perfect dough structure to achieve the chewy texture we’re after.
- 1 cup brown sugar (tightly packed): Adds deep caramel notes and helps keep the cookies moist.
- ½ cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky): The star ingredient that delivers rich flavor and chewiness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened but not melty): Adds creaminess and richness, essential for that tender crumb.
- 1 egg (room temperature): Binds the dough and contributes to softness.
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure without making the cookies tough.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a light texture.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Works along with baking soda for the perfect lift.
- 1/8 teaspoon table salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
How to Make Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Position the rack on the lower middle level. This is key to getting that lovely even bake without burning the bottoms or undercooking the centers.
Step 2: Cream Together the Sugars, Peanut Butter, Butter, and Egg
In a stand mixer bowl, beat the brown sugar, peanut butter, softened butter, and room-temperature egg at medium speed. Mix just until the mixture turns creamy and smooth. This step is where that luscious base for your chewy cookie dough forms.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients and Mix Gently
Now, sprinkle in the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Switch to low speed and mix just until everything comes together. Be careful not to over-mix here, as you want to keep the dough tender and avoid tough cookies.
Step 4: Shape and Arrange the Dough Balls
Grab about 1 ½ inch portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet spaced at least 3 inches apart to give room for spreading. If you want that classic peanut butter cookie look, gently press each ball with a fork to create a subtle criss-cross pattern.
Step 5: Bake Until Lightly Golden
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 11 minutes. The cookies should be just lightly golden around the edges. Let them rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely—this helps them finish setting up into the perfect chewy texture.
How to Serve Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are heavenly on their own, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right after baking can elevate their flavor to new heights. You might also try drizzling some melted chocolate over cooled cookies for a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
Side Dishes
Enjoy these chewy peanut butter cookies alongside a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. The creamy beverage balances the richness of the cookies, creating a nostalgic and comforting pairing that feels just right.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving these at a party or gifting them, stack the cookies with parchment paper layers in a jar or decorative tin. You can also sandwich two cookies together with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible homemade ice cream sandwich treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay soft and chewy for up to 5 days, making it easy to enjoy the Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe whenever a craving strikes.
Freezing
You can freeze these cookies either before or after baking. For unbaked dough, shape and freeze the balls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake frozen dough balls by adding a couple of minutes to the baking time. Baked cookies freeze well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To bring out that freshly-baked warmth, pop the cookies in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave works wonders for softening up chilled cookies without drying them out.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Both crunchy and creamy peanut butter work beautifully in this recipe. Crunchy will add a delightful textural contrast inside the chewy cookie.
Why are my peanut butter cookies not chewy?
Overbaking is the most common culprit. Aim for a lightly golden color and slightly soft centers before taking them out. Also, don’t over-mix the dough to keep the texture tender.
Can I substitute the butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is recommended for flavor and texture, but margarine can be used in a pinch. Avoid oil as it will change the dough’s consistency and the cookie’s chewiness.
Is it necessary to use both baking soda and baking powder?
Yes, using both gives the cookies a balanced rise and tender crumb, contributing to that perfect chew you’re aiming for.
How should I store these cookies for longer shelf life?
For longer storage, freezing is your best friend. Keep them airtight and chilled in the freezer, then thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe a whirl because it’s one of those timeless favorites that never fails to bring joy. The combination of soft chewiness and rich peanut butter flavor will make it your go-to for cookie cravings, family gatherings, or sweet moments of self-indulgence. Once you try these, they might just become your new signature cookie!
Print
Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies are soft, flavorful, and packed with the classic taste of peanut butter. With a perfect balance of sweetness from brown sugar and a tender texture, these cookies are easy to prepare and bake in just over 20 minutes. Ideal for peanut butter lovers, these cookies feature a delightful criss-cross pattern on top and are perfect for sharing or enjoying as a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups all purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon table salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar (tightly packed)
- ½ cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened but not melty)
- 1 egg (room temperature)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack in the lower middle section to ensure even baking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the brown sugar, peanut butter, softened butter, and egg. Beat together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until everything is combined—avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.
- Shape Cookies: Form the dough into 1 ½ inch balls and place them 3 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If desired, gently press each dough ball with a fork to create the traditional criss-cross pattern.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 11 minutes, or until they turn a light golden brown color around the edges.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- The recipe works well with either creamy or chunky peanut butter depending on your texture preference.
- Make sure the butter is softened but not melted to achieve the best texture.
- Don’t overmix after adding the dry ingredients to keep the cookies tender and chewy.
- If you prefer softer cookies, slightly underbake by removing them at 10 minutes.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
