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Peanut Butter Cookies





Irresistible Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Description

Make perfect peanut butter cookies with this easy recipe! Soft, chewy, and full of nutty flavor. Click for the full recipe and tips! This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter combined with a soft, chewy texture. These cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a special event or just looking for a sweet snack to enjoy at home. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

For the Peanut Butter Cookies:

  • 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
  • 1/4 cup raisins

Instructions Step-by-Step for Making Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
    • In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until creamy and smooth. This can be done using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed.
  3. Add the Egg and Vanilla:
    • Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

  1. Form the Dough Balls:
    • Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to form the dough into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  2. Create the Crosshatch Pattern:
    • Flatten each dough ball slightly with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on top.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

  1. Bake:
    • Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will still look soft, but they will firm up as the cookies cool.
  2. Cool:
    • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips and Variations for Peanut Butter Cookies

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

  • Choose Your Peanut Butter:
    • For a smoother texture, use creamy peanut butter. If you prefer a bit of crunch, opt for crunchy peanut butter.
  • Room Temperature Ingredients:
    • Ensure that the butter and egg are at room temperature before mixing to achieve a smoother dough.
  • Avoid Overbaking:
    • The cookies will continue to set after they are removed from the oven, so it’s better to underbake them slightly than to overbake them.

Variations

  • Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies:
    • Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious peanut butter and chocolate combination.
  • Nutty Peanut Butter Cookies:
    • Mix in 1/4 cup of chopped peanuts for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Peanut Butter Raisin Cookies:
    • Stir in 1/4 cup of raisins for a chewy, fruity twist.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
  • Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 100mg

Curiosities and Historical Facts about Peanut Butter Cookies

Origins of Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter cookies have a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The first peanut butter cookie recipe is believed to have been published in 1916 by George Washington Carver, a prominent agricultural scientist who promoted the use of peanuts as a valuable crop. Carver’s recipe included simple ingredients such as peanut butter, sugar, and flour, and he recommended pressing the dough with a fork to create the signature crosshatch pattern, which helps the cookies bake more evenly.

Evolution of Peanut Butter Cookies

Over the years, the recipe for peanut butter cookies has evolved, with various adaptations and enhancements. The addition of ingredients like chocolate chips, nuts, and raisins has made these cookies even more versatile and beloved. Today, peanut butter cookies are a staple in many households, enjoyed by people of all ages.

Fun Facts

  • National Peanut Butter Cookie Day:
    • In the United States, National Peanut Butter Cookie Day is celebrated on June 12th each year, honoring this delightful treat.
  • Peanut Butter Popularity:
    • Peanut butter is a beloved ingredient worldwide, with the United States being one of the largest consumers. It’s estimated that the average American eats about three pounds of peanut butter each year.
  • Versatility:
    • This recipe can be enjoyed in various forms, from soft and chewy to crisp and crunchy, making them a versatile treat for different preferences.

The Science Behind the Recipe

The success of this recipe lies in the balance of ingredients. The combination of butter and peanut butter provides a rich, creamy texture, while the sugars add sweetness and help create the cookie’s chewy texture. The flour and leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) provide structure and lift, ensuring the cookies hold their shape during baking. The fork-pressed crosshatch pattern not only gives the cookies their distinctive look but also helps them bake evenly by flattening the dough.