Old fashioned chewy peanut butter cookies are the epitome of a comfort food cookie. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner looking to impress, this recipe is for you. With its timeless appeal and nostalgic flavor, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Do you know why peanut butter cookies have a crisscross pattern on top? It’s because the dough is dense, and the pattern helps them bake more evenly.
Recipe Overview
| Yields | 24 cookies |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Calories per Serving | 120 kcal |
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and butter until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Step 3: Add the brown sugar and egg to the mixture, beating until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 5: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 6: Flatten each dough ball slightly with a fork to create a crisscross pattern on top.
Step 7: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden but the centers are still soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 10mg |
| Sodium | 90mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 9g |
Watch the video for more detailed instructions:
Tips and Variations
- Tip: For even softer cookies, slightly underbake them. They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.
- Variation: Add chocolate chips or chopped peanuts to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
- Shortcut: Use a pre-made peanut butter cookie dough if you’re short on time.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Fork
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Wire rack
Storage and Pairings
Store these classic peanut butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Pair these homemade peanut butter cookies with a cold glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the secret to chewy cookies?
A: The secret to chewy cookies lies in the moisture content. Using ingredients like brown sugar and butter helps retain moisture, making the cookies soft and chewy.
Q: Is butter or shortening better for chewy cookies?
A: Butter is generally better for chewy cookies because it contains water, which adds moisture and helps create a softer texture.
Q: Does baking soda make cookies chewy?
A: Yes, baking soda helps make cookies chewy by creating a tender crumb and promoting even spreading during baking.
Q: What makes cookies spread and chewy?
A: The combination of butter, sugar, and proper baking time helps cookies spread and become chewy. The dough’s temperature also affects spreading.
These vintage cookie recipes are not only a treat for the taste buds but also evoke a sense of nostalgia. If you loved this timeless cookie recipe, please share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delightful recipes!
