Make traditional peanut butter cookies with crispy edges and soft centers using this simple, time-tested recipe.
Author:amyrosewood
Prep Time:15 min
Cook Time:11 min
Total Time:26 min
Yield:About 3 dozen cookies 1x
Category:Dessert
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 cup creamy peanut butter
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the peanut butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until just combined.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
Scoop the dough into balls, about 1.5 tablespoons each. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Use a fork to press down on each dough ball to create a crosshatch pattern, pressing once in one direction and then once perpendicular to the first press.
Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers will still look slightly soft.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a richer peanut flavor, use a natural, unsweetened peanut butter.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before scooping if your kitchen is warm; this helps maintain shape during baking.
If you prefer a slightly chewier cookie, slightly underbake them by about 1 minute.