The Best Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies That Are Always a Hit

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

The Best Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies That Are Always a Hit

Olivia Bennett

Created by

Olivia Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:11:28.101Z

These peanut butter cookies are a family favorite, cherished for their rich flavor and chewy texture. Made with simple ingredients, they are perfect for any occasion!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Rich and nutty flavor that satisfies cravings
  • Classic chewy texture that brings back childhood memories
  • Quick and easy to make, perfect for any baking level

A Timeless Classic

Peanut butter cookies are an enduring favorite that transcends generations. Their rich and nutty flavor makes them perfect for satisfying any craving, whether you're young or young at heart. The combination of peanut butter and sugar creates a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with a touch of salt, enhancing the overall taste experience.

This recipe captures the essence of old-fashioned peanut butter cookies, bringing back fond memories of childhood baking sessions. The nostalgic aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is sure to evoke cherished moments spent with family and friends. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re a reminder of simpler times.

Quick and Easy to Make

One of the best aspects of this peanut butter cookie recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookies in no time. This makes it an excellent choice for novice bakers or anyone looking for a quick baking project.

The straightforward steps ensure that even those with minimal baking experience can achieve perfect results. You don’t need any special equipment beyond a mixing bowl and a baking sheet. This accessibility makes these cookies a go-to recipe for spontaneous baking sessions or last-minute gatherings.

Ingredients

Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix all ingredients thoroughly and prepare for baking!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth.

Shape Cookies

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll into balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Flatten Cookies

Using a fork, press down on each ball to create a crisscross pattern.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your delicious peanut butter cookies!

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your peanut butter cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, though we doubt they’ll last that long once your family gets a whiff of their deliciousness! For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll be ready to enjoy whenever the mood strikes.

If you prefer warm cookies straight from the oven, you can also freeze the dough. Simply scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag. When you're ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is perfect as is, feel free to get creative! Add chocolate chips for a delightful twist, or mix in chopped nuts for added crunch. For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. The molasses in brown sugar will give your cookies a deeper, more complex taste.

You can also experiment by incorporating different types of nut butters, such as almond or cashew butter, for a unique flavor profile. Each variation brings its own charm to these classic cookies, making them even more exciting to bake and share.

Secondary image

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, just ensure it is well mixed and not too runny.

→ How can I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw and bake when ready.

→ What can I substitute for sugar?

You can use brown sugar or a sugar alternative, but it may alter the texture slightly.

The Best Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies That Are Always a Hit

The Best Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies That Are Always a Hit

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Olivia Bennett

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 24 cookies

What You'll Need

Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients

  1. 1 cup peanut butter
  2. 1 cup sugar
  3. 1 egg
  4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  5. 1 teaspoon baking soda
  6. 1/2 teaspoon salt

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 02

In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth.

Step 03

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll into balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 04

Using a fork, press down on each ball to create a crisscross pattern.

Step 05

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 06

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 150 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 70mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 4g