Introduction
There’s nothing quite like biting into a thick and chewy peanut butter cookie—that soft, rich, peanut-buttery goodness just melts in your mouth. If you’ve been searching for the perfect recipe, you’re in the right place! This guide will take you step-by-step through making the ultimate peanut butter cookies that are both soft and chewy while packing an incredible flavor punch.
1. Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, gather the following ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
These simple ingredients come together to create soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies that are perfect for any occasion.
2. The Secret to Thick and Chewy Cookies
Want the ultimate thick and chewy peanut butter cookies? Here’s the key:
- Use the right fat ratio: Butter and peanut butter work together to keep the cookies soft.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing toughens cookies, so mix just until combined.
- Chill the dough: If you want even thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
5. Mixing the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
6. Combining the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined.
7. Shaping the Cookies
- Roll the dough into 1 ½-inch balls (about 2 tablespoons of dough each).
- Place them on the baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each dough ball slightly with a fork, making a crisscross pattern.
8. Baking to Perfection
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes.
- The edges should be set and golden, while the centers remain slightly underbaked.
9. Cooling and Storing Your Cookies
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
10. Pro Tips for the Best Cookies
- For extra chewiness, use more brown sugar than white sugar.
- Don’t overbake! The cookies continue baking even after they come out of the oven.
- Try different peanut butters! Natural peanut butter gives a stronger nutty taste, while commercial brands provide a creamier texture.
11. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using melted butter: This can make the dough too runny.
- Skipping the chilling step: If your dough is too soft, chilling helps keep the cookies thick.
- Overmixing the dough: This results in tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
12. Customizing Your Cookies
Want to switch things up? Try these variations:
- Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies – Add ½ cup of chocolate chips.
- Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies – Use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies – Make an indent in the center and fill with jam.
13. Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy these cookies with a cold glass of milk.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
- Use them to make homemade ice cream sandwiches!
14. Conclusion
Making thick and chewy peanut butter cookies at home is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you’ll have soft, rich, and delicious cookies that everyone will love. Follow this recipe, and you’ll never look for another peanut butter cookie recipe again!
15. FAQs
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes! But natural peanut butter can make the cookies more crumbly, so mix well before using.
2. How do I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to increase the baking time slightly if baking multiple trays.
4. What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can substitute with white sugar, but the cookies may lose some chewiness.
5. How do I make these cookies softer?
Use more brown sugar than white sugar, and don’t overbake!
Now that you have the perfect peanut butter cookie recipe, it’s time to bake! Let us know how your cookies turn out.
