How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies from Scratch
Peanut butter cookies are a classic favorite among cookie enthusiasts. These chewy, nutty treats are easy to make from scratch and require only a few ingredients. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making peanut butter cookies from scratch.
Ingredients
Before we begin, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make peanut butter cookies from scratch:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, whichever you prefer)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s move on to the instructions:
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure easy cookie removal. - Step 2: Whisk Together Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. - Step 3: Cream Together Butter and Peanut Butter
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the peanut butter and butter until smooth and creamy. - Step 4: Add Sugar and Mix
Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar to the peanut butter mixture. Mix until well combined. - Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. - Step 6: Mix in Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients (flour mixture) until just combined. - Step 7: Add Optional Ingredients (Chopped Peanuts or Chocolate Chips)
If using, fold in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips.
Table: Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/4 cups |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Peanut butter | 1 cup (creamy or crunchy) |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup (softened) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Large eggs | 2 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips | 1/2 cup |
Step 8: Scoop and Bake Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Variations
- To ensure chewy cookies, do not overbake.
- If you prefer a crisper cookie, bake for 12-14 minutes.
- You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for added flavor.
- Experiment with different types of nut butters, such as almond or cashew butter, for a unique flavor.
Conclusion
Making peanut butter cookies from scratch is a simple and rewarding process that requires only a few ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment. With these instructions and tips, you can create delicious, chewy peanut butter cookies that are perfect for snacking or sharing with friends and family. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the satisfaction of baking your own peanut butter cookies from scratch!