Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Made From Scratch

Peanut butter cookies are one of the first cookies I ever learned to bake. They are soft in the middle and lightly crisp around the edges. The flavor is warm and comforting. Each bite tastes like roasted peanuts with a gentle sweetness that feels familiar. These cookies do not need frosting or fillings to taste good. They stand strong on their own.

I like making peanut butter cookies when I want something simple. The dough comes together fast, and it does not need fancy tools. Most of the time, I already have the ingredients in my kitchen. These cookies are great for after school snacks, family gatherings, or quiet evenings at home. They also pair well with other peanut butter treats like Peanut Butter Fudge and Peanut Butter Brownies, which use the same rich nutty flavor in a different way.

This recipe focuses on soft cookies that stay tender even the next day. They are easy to shape and bake evenly. The classic fork marks on top give them a familiar look that many people remember from childhood.

Why This Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe Works

This recipe works because it keeps things simple. Peanut butter is the star, and nothing overpowers it. The balance between sugar, fat, and flour creates cookies that are soft without being greasy.

The dough does not spread too much in the oven. That means the cookies hold their shape and bake evenly. The centers stay soft, while the edges gain a light bite.

Another reason this recipe works is the mixing method. The butter and sugar are creamed just enough to add air. The eggs are mixed gently, so the dough stays smooth. Overmixing is avoided, which helps keep the cookies tender.

These cookies are also forgiving. Even beginner bakers can make them with good results. If the dough feels a little thick, that is normal. If it feels soft, it still bakes well after chilling for a short time.

Ingredients You Will Need

These ingredients are common and easy to find. Measure them carefully for the best results.

• Two cups creamy peanut butter
• One cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• One and one half cups granulated sugar
• One half cup brown sugar
• Two large eggs, at room temperature
• Two teaspoons vanilla extract
• Three cups all-purpose flour
• One teaspoon baking soda
• One half teaspoon salt

Optional additions if you like texture

• One half cup chopped peanuts
• One half cup chocolate chips

Creamy peanut butter works best for smooth cookies. Natural peanut butter can be used, but the texture may change a little.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the baking sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set them aside. This helps prevent sticking and allows the cookies to bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, add the flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently until combined. Set this bowl aside.

Step 3: Cream the butter and sugars

In a large bowl, add the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Mix for about two minutes, until the mixture looks light and smooth.

Step 4: Add the peanut butter

Add the peanut butter to the bowl. Mix again until fully blended. The mixture should look thick and creamy, with no streaks.

Step 5: Add eggs and vanilla

Crack in the eggs one at a time. Mix slowly after each egg. Add the vanilla extract. Mix just until smooth. Do not rush this step. Gentle mixing keeps the dough soft.

Step 6: Add the dry ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed or use a spatula. Stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears. The dough will be thick and soft.

If you are adding chopped peanuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now.

Step 7: Chill the dough

Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for thirty minutes. This helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.

Step 8: Shape the cookies

Preheat the oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Scoop dough into balls about two tablespoons each. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one.

Use a fork to gently press down each ball. Make a criss-cross pattern on top. Do not press too hard.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the cookies for ten to twelve minutes. The edges should look set, while the centers still look soft. Do not overbake. The cookies will firm up as they cool.

Step 10: Cool

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for five minutes. Then move them to a wire rack. Allow them to cool fully before serving.

Texture and Flavor Notes

These peanut butter cookies are soft and tender. The center stays moist, while the outside holds together without crumbling. The peanut flavor is strong but not heavy.

The sugar adds just enough sweetness without covering the nutty taste. The vanilla adds warmth, and the salt balances everything so the cookies do not taste flat.

Each cookie feels comforting and familiar. They are easy to enjoy with a glass of milk or a cup of tea.

Helpful Baking Tips

• Always use room temperature butter and eggs. This helps everything mix smoothly.
• Measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling it. This keeps cookies from turning dry.
• Do not skip chilling the dough. It helps the cookies bake better.
• Remove cookies from the oven while the center still looks soft.
• Let cookies cool before stacking to avoid breaking.

These small tips make a big difference in the final texture.

How to Store Peanut Butter Cookies

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. Place parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking.

For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to one week. Let them come to room temperature before eating.

To freeze baked cookies, place them in a freezer safe container. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Freezing the Dough

You can freeze the dough before baking. Scoop dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.

Bake frozen dough balls directly from the freezer. Add one or two extra minutes to the bake time. This is helpful when you want fresh cookies without making dough again.

Variations to Try

Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
Mix in chopped peanuts for crunch.
Roll dough balls in sugar before baking for a crisp edge.
Add a small chocolate kiss on top after baking.
Swirl a little honey into the dough for extra warmth.

These changes keep the recipe fun while keeping the base the same.

Peanut Butter Cookies and Other Peanut Treats

If you enjoy peanut butter cookies, you will likely enjoy other peanut butter desserts too. Peanut Butter Fudge is smooth and creamy and melts in your mouth. Peanut Butter Brownies bring together chocolate and peanut butter in a rich and soft dessert.

All of these treats share the same comforting flavor, but each one feels different. Cookies are great for quick snacks. Fudge works well for gifts. Brownies feel more rich and filling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crunchy peanut butter

Yes, but the texture will be different. Creamy peanut butter works best.

Why did my cookies spread too much

The dough may be too warm. Chill it longer before baking.

Can I make smaller cookies

Yes. Reduce the baking time by a few minutes.

Do I need a mixer

No. A sturdy spoon works fine, but mixing takes longer.

Why are my cookies dry

Too much flour or baking too long can cause this.