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Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

chewy peanut butter cookies - featured image

These chewy peanut butter cookies feature a classic fork pattern and a perfect balance of sweetness and texture, making them soft and irresistibly delicious every time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240g) smooth or crunchy peanut butter
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (110g) packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt (use less if peanut butter is salted)
  • Optional: 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips
  • Optional: pinch of sea salt flakes for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar using an electric mixer or hand whisk until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Mix in the peanut butter and egg until fully incorporated and smooth.
  4. Add vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt; mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
  5. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
  6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions (about 15g or 1/2 oz) of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
  7. Dip a fork in granulated sugar and gently press down on each dough ball twice to create a crisscross pattern.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes until cookies are lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
  9. Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Do not overbake to keep cookies chewy. Use room temperature butter for best creaming results. Dip fork in sugar before pressing to prevent sticking. Chill dough for 15-20 minutes if cookies spread too much. Optional sea salt flakes on top enhance flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: peanut butter cookies, chewy cookies, classic fork pattern, easy cookies, gluten-free cookies, homemade cookies