Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

These Peanut Butter Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor in every bite. Made with simple pantry ingredients and the classic crisscross fork pattern, they're a timeless cookie recipe that never goes out of style.

Whether you're baking for the holidays, an afternoon snack, or a family gathering, these homemade peanut butter cookies are always a crowd favorite.

The Origins of Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter cookies became popular in the United States during the early 1900s as peanut butter gained popularity as an affordable pantry staple.

The famous crisscross fork marks were first published in a peanut butter recipe during the 1930s and have remained the signature look of peanut butter cookies ever since.

Today, they remain one of America's most beloved homemade cookies.

Why You'll Love These Cookies

• Soft and chewy centers

• Rich peanut butter flavor

• Easy pantry ingredients

• Freezer-friendly

• Ready in under 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 large egg

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a bowl whisk together:

• Flour

• Baking soda

• Salt

Step 2: Cream Ingredients

Beat together:

• Peanut butter

• Butter

• Brown sugar

• Granulated sugar

until light and fluffy.

Add egg and vanilla.

Mix until combined.

Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients

Gradually add flour mixture.

Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Shape Cookies

Roll dough into 1-inch balls.

Place on prepared baking sheets.

Use a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 9-11 minutes.

Edges should be lightly golden while centers remain soft.

Step 6: Cool

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

What to Serve With Peanut Butter Cookies

• Cold Milk

• Coffee

• Hot Chocolate

• Vanilla Ice Cream

• Chocolate Milkshakes

Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do peanut butter cookies have fork marks?

The dough is dense, so pressing with a fork helps them bake evenly.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes. It adds extra texture.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months.

More Cookie Recipes You'll Love

• Classic Sugar Cookies

• Lofthouse Cookies

• Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Snickerdoodles

• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

• Red Velvet Cookies

• Lemon Cookies

• Strawberry Cookies

• Double Chocolate Cookies

Final Thoughts

These classic Peanut Butter Cookies are soft, chewy, and loaded with peanut butter flavor. They're easy enough for beginner bakers but delicious enough to become a permanent family favorite.