Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that melts in your mouth but still boasts that wonderful, satisfying bite, look no further than this Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. These cookies strike the perfect balance between soft and chewy, with a rich peanut butter flavor that dances on your tongue and a hint of sea salt to elevate every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that bring warmth and joy with each batch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Even though these chewy peanut butter cookies feel indulgent, the ingredients list is refreshingly simple and straightforward. Each component plays a critical role—from the creamy peanut butter that provides that signature flavor and moist texture, to the brown sugar adding depth and chewiness, and finally the vanilla extract that ties everything together with a sweet aroma.

• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and helps create that tender crumb that’s essential for chewy cookies.
• Creamy peanut butter (3/4 cup): The star ingredient giving the cookies their classic flavor and creamy texture.
• Brown sugar (3/4 cup): Loads of moisture and a subtle molasses flavor enhance chewiness.
• White granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Balances the sweetness and helps with texture.
• Egg (1): Acts as a binder and contributes to the cookie’s softness.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Adds a warm, fragrant note that rounds out the flavors.
• Unbleached flour (1 1/3 cups): Provides structure, so the cookies hold their shape without becoming cakey.
• Baking soda (3/4 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough to stay soft and chewy.
• Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a little lift and lightness to the dough.
• Sea salt (optional): A sprinkle on top finishes the cookies with a perfect sweet-salty contrast.

How to Make Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep step ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Soften the Butter

Microwave the butter for about 20 seconds to soften it, which makes it easier to blend with the peanut butter and sugars. Just add a few more seconds if it’s not quite soft enough—this helps create a smooth cookie dough.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Peanut Butter, and Sugars

Mix the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is silky and well combined. This step is crucial for building the cookie’s texture and sweetness.

Step 4: Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. They help bind all the ingredients together while offering richness and an inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Carefully stir in the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Combining these gently prevents overmixing, ensuring your cookies stay tender and chewy instead of tough.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Scoop out the dough with a tablespoon or cookie scoop, forming balls about 2 tablespoons each. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart so they have room to spread.

Step 7: Create the Classic Fork Pattern

Press down lightly on each dough ball with a fork, first horizontally and then vertically, making the iconic crisscross design. This not only makes them look beautiful but also flattens them just enough for even baking.

Step 8: Add Sea Salt and Bake

Sprinkle lightly with sea salt if using. Bake the cookies for about 9 minutes. Remember, they’ll look a bit pale and slightly underdone upon removal—that’s exactly what you want because they finish baking on the hot sheet, leaving them perfectly chewy.

Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 minutes before transferring them to a rack. This cooling period lets them set properly and ensures you don’t break that perfect chewy texture when moving them.

How to Serve Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

Add a little whimsy with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or even a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for an extra decadent touch. These little additions don’t just enhance flavor—they give your cookies a gourmet edge.

Side Dishes

Pair your chewy peanut butter cookies with a glass of cold milk, a cup of warm coffee, or even creamy vanilla ice cream for a comforting combo that brings out the cookie’s rich texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these treasures stacked on a rustic wooden board, wrapped individually in parchment paper tied with ribbon for gift-giving, or nestled alongside fresh fruit for a delightful tea-time spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The best way to keep your chewy peanut butter cookies fresh is to store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay perfectly soft and chewy for up to a week—if they last that long!

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies later, freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready, bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

To revive any leftover cookies, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or warm them briefly in a low oven. This restores their softness and brings back that freshly-baked charm.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add delightful little bits of texture inside your chewy cookies, giving an added crunch that contrasts nicely with the softness of the cookie.

Why do my peanut butter cookies turn out dry instead of chewy?

Overbaking is the most common culprit. Be sure to remove the cookies from the oven when they still look slightly underbaked, and let them finish cooking on the warm baking sheet to keep them soft and chewy.

Can I substitute coconut sugar for brown sugar in this recipe?

You can. Coconut sugar will add a similar caramel note and moisture but may slightly alter the color and flavor. It’s a great option for those looking for a less processed sugar alternative.

Is it necessary to add sea salt on top?

Sea salt is optional but highly recommended. The touch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor, creating a more complex and satisfying bite.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain structure and chewiness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about a Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe that hits every craving just right—comforting, flavorful, and utterly delightful. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and again to sweeten your day or share with loved ones. So preheat your oven, grab those simple ingredients, and bake up some happiness!

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