Easy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Overview
Name: Easy PNut Butter Cookies
Description: Make and share this Easy PNut Butter Cookies recipe from lovewithrecipes.com.
Recipe Category: Dessert
Keywords: Cookie & Brownie, < 15 Mins, Easy
Total Time: 15 minutes (Cook Time: 10 minutes, Prep Time: 5 minutes)
Servings: 12
Calories: 197.1 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup crunchy peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 197.1
- Fat: 11.2g
- Saturated Fat: 2.3g
- Cholesterol: 17.6mg
- Sodium: 104.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 20.9g
- Fiber: 1.3g
- Sugar: 18.7g
- Protein: 5.9g
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: Combine the crunchy peanut butter, sugar, and egg in a medium-sized bowl. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form Cookies: Roll the mixture into balls and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet. Each ball should be about the size of a walnut.
- Flatten: Using the back of a spoon, gently flatten each ball of dough. This will help the cookies bake evenly and give them a traditional cookie shape.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Tricks
- Peanut Butter: For this recipe, crunchy peanut butter adds texture, but you can also use smooth peanut butter if you prefer a different texture. The flavor remains equally delightful.
- Mixing: Ensure that you mix the ingredients well to achieve a consistent dough. This step is crucial for the cookies to bake evenly.
- Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. Peanut butter cookies can go from perfect to overdone quickly. The edges should be lightly browned, and the centers should look slightly underbaked.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months.
- Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative by adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra touch of decadence.
Cooking Notes
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, consider using a sugar substitute that measures like sugar. However, be mindful that this might slightly alter the texture of the cookies.
- Baking Sheet Preparation: No need to grease the cookie sheet as the natural oils from the peanut butter will prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Cooling: Letting the cookies cool on the baking sheet allows them to firm up and makes them easier to transfer to the wire rack.
Serving Suggestions
- With Milk: Enjoy these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use the cookies to make delightful ice cream sandwiches. Simply place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies and gently press together.
- Gift Idea: These cookies make a great gift. Pack them in a decorative tin or box lined with parchment paper for a thoughtful and delicious present.
Variations
- Chocolate-Dipped: After the cookies have cooled, dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate and let it set for an extra indulgent treat.
- Peanut Butter Blossoms: Before baking, press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie ball for a fun twist.
- Nutty Delights: Add chopped peanuts or other nuts to the dough for additional crunch and flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
This Easy Peanut Butter Cookies recipe is perfect for those moments when you crave something sweet but don’t have a lot of time or a pantry full of ingredients. With just three ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookies in no time. The combination of crunchy peanut butter, sugar, and an egg creates a dough that bakes up into cookies with a crisp edge and a chewy center. The simplicity of the recipe means it’s easy enough for novice bakers, yet the results are so satisfying that even seasoned bakers will enjoy making (and eating) these cookies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be sure to stir it well before measuring to ensure that the oil is fully incorporated. This will help maintain the correct consistency of the dough.
Q: How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour. Just make sure that your peanut butter does not have any gluten-containing additives.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Simply double the ingredient quantities and follow the same instructions. You may need to bake the cookies in batches depending on the size of your oven.
Q: How do I know when the cookies are done?
A: The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges. The centers may still look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
Health and Dietary Information
These Easy Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that fits into various dietary preferences:
- Gluten-Free: As mentioned, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
- Protein-Packed: Thanks to the peanut butter, each cookie contains a decent amount of protein, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Moderation-Friendly: While these cookies are a sweet treat, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The nutritional information provided can help you keep track of your intake.
Conclusion
This Easy Peanut Butter Cookies recipe is a quick, simple, and satisfying way to enjoy homemade cookies without the hassle of a long ingredient list or complicated steps. With just three ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can have a batch of delicious cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking with kids, preparing a quick dessert, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the delightful crunch and rich peanut butter flavor with each bite, and don’t hesitate to share the love by gifting these cookies to friends and family. Happy baking!
