Welcome to my food blog! Today, I’m excited to share a classic recipe that’s incredibly simple, quick to make, and absolutely delicious: 5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies. These cookies are perfect for when you want a sweet treat without spending hours in the kitchen. With just five pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these mouthwatering cookies in no time.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Cookies
These cookies are:
- Easy and Quick: Made with only five ingredients, these cookies come together in minutes.
- Perfectly Sweet and Nutty: The peanut butter flavor shines through, making them a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, these cookies are a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Versatile: Great for snacks, desserts, or even as a gift.
Ingredients
To make these delightful cookies, you’ll need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Fork
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and baking soda. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Form the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Place them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
- Create the Classic Crosshatch Pattern: Using a fork, gently press down on each ball of dough to flatten it slightly and create a crisscross pattern on the top.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, enjoy your homemade peanut butter cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage.
Tips and Tricks
- Consistency: Make sure your peanut butter is well-stirred and not too oily or dry for the best consistency.
- Add-ins: For extra texture and flavor, you can fold in some chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Food and Drink Pairings
These peanut butter cookies pair wonderfully with:
- Milk: A classic pairing that complements the rich peanut butter flavor.
- Coffee or Tea: Perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert.
- Hot Chocolate: For an indulgent treat, enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of hot chocolate.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of sugar?
A: Yes, you can substitute brown sugar or a sugar substitute like coconut sugar for a slightly different flavor and texture.
Q: What if I don’t have vanilla extract?
A: You can omit the vanilla extract, though it does add a nice depth of flavor. Alternatively, you can use a different extract like almond or maple.
Q: Can I use chunky peanut butter?
A: Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add a nice texture to the cookies with bits of peanuts.
Q: How do I make these cookies dairy-free?
A: These cookies are naturally dairy-free since they contain no butter or milk.
Q: Can I make a larger batch?
A: Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to make more cookies. Just adjust the baking sheets and time accordingly.
Call to Action
I hope you enjoy making and savoring these 5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies as much as I do! If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for more delicious recipes and culinary tips. Happy baking!