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Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe Easy Homemade Classic Fork Pattern

chewy peanut butter cookies - featured image

These chewy peanut butter cookies feature a classic fork pattern and a perfect balance of peanut flavor with a soft, chewy texture and slightly crisp edges. Made with simple pantry staples, they are quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Optional: chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for mix-ins

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat with a hand mixer or wooden spoon until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated and smooth.
  4. Sprinkle in baking soda and sea salt. Stir gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
  5. Scoop dough using a tablespoon or small cookie scoop, rolling into 1-inch balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Dip a fork in granulated sugar and gently press down on each dough ball to flatten slightly and create the classic crisscross pattern.
  7. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
  8. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Avoid overbaking to keep cookies chewy. Use room temperature egg for smooth dough. Press cookies with a fork dipped in sugar to prevent sticking and create the classic pattern. Chill dough for 10-15 minutes if too soft. Brown sugar is key for chewiness and moisture. Using creamy peanut butter yields the best texture. Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months and bake from frozen, adding 2 minutes to baking time.

Nutrition

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