Introduction
Peanut Butter Cookies are a beloved classic in the world of baking, cherished for their rich, nutty flavor and delightful chewy texture. Whether enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or a sweet treat with coffee, these cookies evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort.
The beauty of peanut butter cookies lies in their simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients—peanut butter, sugar, egg, and a touch of vanilla—these cookies come together quickly and easily. The distinctive crisscross pattern made with a fork not only adds a charming touch but also helps create a perfectly baked cookie.
Perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging in a quiet moment alone, peanut butter cookies are versatile and can be customized with chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt. Whether you prefer them soft and chewy or crisp and crunchy, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring a smile to your face.
Ingredients
1 cup of peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
1 cup of granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1/2 tsp of baking soda
1/4 tsp of salt (optional)
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Shape the Cookies:
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on top.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked; they will firm up as they cool.
Cool:
Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Method of Storage
To keep your Peanut Butter Cookies fresh and delicious, follow these storage guidelines:
Storage Instructions
Cooling:
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack after baking. This prevents moisture from building up and keeps them from becoming soggy.
Airtight Container:
Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container. You can use a cookie jar, plastic container, or resealable bag.
Room Temperature:
Peanut butter cookies can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure to place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Refrigeration (Optional):
If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate the cookies. They will last for about 2 weeks in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.
Freezing (Optional):
For longer storage, freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Frozen cookies can last for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the containers with the date for easy reference.
Reheating Tips
Thawing: If frozen, thaw the cookies at room temperature for about 15-30 minutes before serving.
Microwave: For a warm treat, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.
Oven: You can also reheat cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Enjoying Leftovers
Enjoy your peanut butter cookies plain, or pair them with a glass of milk or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert!