As the aroma of cookies wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but smile—there’s something magical about baking. These Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies are my ultimate go-to for a cozy holiday treat that never fails to bring joy. With a satisfying balance of rich peanut butter flavor and that perfect soft chewy texture, these cookies quickly become a family favorite. Not only do they come together in a snap, but they also make for the ideal addition to any cookie platter or bake sale, ensuring you’ll have something delicious to share with friends and loved ones. Want to learn the secret to making them even softer or chewier? Stick around as we dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Comforting, the moment you take a bite, the familiar flavors of childhood come rushing back. Customization options allow you to adjust the textures—make them softer for a melt-in-your-mouth experience or chewier for that homey bite. Easy to Make, this recipe comes together swiftly, meaning more time for laughter and cheer during the holidays. Versatile Treats, perfect for cookie platters, gift-giving, or cozy evenings with a glass of milk or hot cocoa! Plus, if you love the rich flavor of peanut butter, you’ll also adore Cranberry Shortbread Cookies for a delightful twist!
Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Butter – 1/2 cup, 1 stick – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Creamy Peanut Butter – 3/4 cup – The star flavor; provides creaminess and contributes to chewiness. Use natural peanut butter for a more robust taste.
- White Sugar – 1/2 cup + 1/2 cup for rolling – Sweetens the cookies and helps form a delightful crust once rolled before baking.
- Light Brown Sugar – 1/2 cup, packed – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor that elevates the cookies.
- Large Egg – 1 – This ingredient binds everything together and helps with the cookie structure.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp – Enhances the cookies’ flavor profile and makes them irresistible.
- All-Purpose Flour – 1 3/4 cups – Provides structure; adjust for desired texture—less flour means softer cookies.
- Baking Soda – 1 tsp – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise beautifully.
- Kosher Salt – 1/2 tsp – Balances sweetness and amplifies the peanut butter flavor in these soft & chewy classic peanut butter cookies.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer, beat together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter on medium speed until combined and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Next, gradually add 1/2 cup of white sugar and 1/2 cup of packed light brown sugar, mixing until the texture becomes creamy and light, signaling it’s ready for the next step.
Step 2: Incorporate Egg & Vanilla
Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the creamy mixture. Continue mixing on medium speed until the egg and vanilla are fully integrated, creating a rich batter that’s both fluffy and aromatic. This will be the flavorful foundation for your Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing. You should see a soft dough forming, rich with peanut butter goodness.
Step 4: Chill Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours, allowing it to firm up. This chilling step is crucial for your Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies, preventing them from spreading too thin while baking and ensuring the perfect texture.
Step 5: Preheat & Prepare Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper, creating a perfect non-stick surface for baking. The aroma of the preheating oven is a delightful sign that your kitchen is ready to fill with the scent of freshly baked cookies.
Step 6: Form Cookies
Once chilled, use a cookie scoop to portion out 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie. Roll each portion into a ball, then roll in additional white sugar for a sweet crust. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, then flatten them slightly with a fork to create the iconic criss-cross pattern that adds character to your Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies.
Step 7: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-9 minutes, or until they are set in the middle yet slightly underbaked. They should have a lovely golden crust. Remove them from the oven, letting them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely and develop that chewy texture.
Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine in the kitchen with these delightful twists!
- Chocolate Lover: Add 1 cup of chocolate or peanut butter chips for an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.
- Nutty Surprise: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter.
- Salted Caramel: Drizzle melted caramel over cooled cookies and sprinkle with sea salt for a luxurious treat that balances sweet and salty.
- Oatmeal Twist: Replace 1/2 cup of flour with quick oats for a chewy texture and a hearty feel that adds depth to each bite.
- Spiced Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, inviting flavor perfect for the holidays.
- Dairy-Free: Swap the butter with coconut oil and use almond or cashew milk in place of the egg for a delicious, dairy-free alternative.
- Maple Magic: Incorporate 1/4 cup of maple syrup in place of some of the sugar for a sweet, earthy twist that enhances the peanut flavor. Check out my Maple Butter Glazed Turkey for more maple-inspired goodness!
- Toffee Bits: Sprinkle in some toffee bits to give your cookies a crunchy, caramelized element which pairs beautifully with peanut butter.
Don’t hesitate to mix and match these variations, or even adapt the cookie for your favorite flavor profiles! Enjoy baking these Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies, and happy sharing!
Storage Tips for Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container for up to one week. This maintains their soft texture and prevents them from drying out.
Fridge: If you live in a warm climate, storing cookies in the refrigerator may help them last longer, but they might lose some chewiness. Enjoy within a week for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Place wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked warmth and softness.
What to Serve with Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies
As you indulge in these warm, delightful treats, consider what can accompany their nostalgic flavors for a full experience.
- Glass of Milk: Enjoy the classic pairing of cold milk for a refreshing contrast to the rich, nutty cookies.
- Hot Cocoa: The warmth of hot cocoa enhances the comforting essence of these cookies, making every bite feel like a hug.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop atop a warm cookie brings unexpected creaminess, perfect for those who crave indulgence.
- Fruit Salad: A light, fresh fruit salad balances the sweetness, adding a refreshing crunch for a wholesome touch.
- Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: Elevate your cookies by drizzling with warm chocolate sauce, creating a decadent dessert that satisfies every sweet tooth!
- Caramel Dip: Offering a luscious caramel dip encourages fun and sharing, giving guests another layer of delight to savor.
- Coffee: A rich cup of coffee complements the cookies’ flavors, making it a cozy pairing for an afternoon treat.
- Tea: Choose a fragrant herbal tea to cleanse the palate between bites while enjoying the cookies’ soft, chewy charm.
- Cheesecake Bites: Create a delightful dessert spread by including mini cheesecake bites, offering a creamy contrast to the cookies.
- Nutty Oatmeal: Serve a warm bowl of oatmeal on the side for a comforting and wholesome breakfast experience.
With these harmonious pairings, you’ll craft a memorable moment that leaves everyone craving more!
Expert Tips for Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 2-3 hours is essential, preventing cookies from becoming too thin while baking. Don’t skip this step!
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Flour Adjustment: For softer cookies, increase the flour by 1/4 cup and add an extra 1/4 cup of peanut butter. This adjustment gives you that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Baking Timing: Remove the cookies while they appear slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool, maintaining a deliciously chewy center.
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Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tougher cookies—keep them soft and chewy instead!
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Storage Technique: Store your Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them to enjoy later.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then chilling the dough in the refrigerator. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent it from absorbing any odors. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the chilled dough into balls, coat them in sugar, and proceed with the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have delicious homemade cookies with minimal effort, making those last-minute cravings a breeze to satisfy!
Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peanut butter?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using creamy, natural peanut butter without added sugar or hydrogenated oils, as it enhances the richness and chewiness of the cookies. However, if you prefer a more robust taste, feel free to experiment with crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
How should I store the cookies?
You should store your Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will help maintain their delightful softness and prevent them from drying out. If you’d like to keep them longer, refrigerating them can extend their shelf life but may result in slightly less chewiness.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your cookies! To freeze them, let the baked cookies cool completely. Then, layer them with wax paper in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their softness.
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough seems overly sticky, it’s okay! You can add a touch more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Just be cautious not to overdo it—too much flour can result in tougher cookies. Chilling the dough also helps it firm up, making it easier to scoop and shape.
Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, it’s best to keep these cookies away from pets. Chocolate and certain sweeteners, like xylitol, are toxic to dogs. While peanut butter is usually safe, it’s essential to ensure your recipe doesn’t include harmful ingredients and to keep these delectable treats exclusively for those who can enjoy them safely!
How can I adjust the texture of the cookies?
Very easily! If you prefer your Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies to be softer, increase the flour by 1/4 cup and add an additional 1/4 cup of peanut butter. For a chewier texture, reduce the flour slightly and bake them for the suggested time without overbaking. Test a batch to find your perfect balance!
Soft & Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies You'll Crave!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, beat together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 3/4 cup of creamy peanut butter on medium speed until combined and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add 1/2 cup of white sugar and 1/2 cup of packed light brown sugar, mixing until creamy.
- Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract to the mixture, mixing until fully integrated to create a rich batter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until combined.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours to firm up.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once chilled, use a cookie scoop to portion out 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie. Roll into balls, then roll in additional white sugar. Place on the baking sheet and flatten slightly with a fork.
- Bake for 8-9 minutes, until set but slightly underbaked. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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