Peanut butter cookies are a timeless classic, and if you’re looking for an incredibly simple and delicious recipe, look no further! This 3-ingredient peanut butter cookie recipe has become my go-to favorite, and it’s so easy that anyone can whip them up in no time. The best part? They’re made with just three simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Once you try these peanut butter cookies, you’ll see why they’re a family favorite in my home!
What You’ll Need to Make These Irresistible Peanut Butter Cookies
This straightforward recipe calls for just three basic ingredients, all of which work together to create the perfect balance of sweetness, moisture, and peanut butter flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before you begin:
- Peanut Butter and Sugar: You’ll need one cup of peanut butter and one cup of white sugar for the dough. These two ingredients are the foundation of your cookies. Peanut butter provides the nutty flavor, while sugar gives the cookies their sweet crunch. It’s important to use creamy peanut butter, as it blends smoothly into the dough, making the mixing process much easier.
- Egg: The egg binds the dough together and adds moisture, ensuring that your cookies will be soft and chewy with the perfect texture. It also helps the cookies rise slightly during baking, giving them a light, airy bite.
How to Make These Simple 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Making these peanut butter cookies couldn’t be simpler. All you need is a mixing bowl, a fork, and an oven! Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Mix Your Ingredients: Start by combining the peanut butter, sugar, and egg in a bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to blend everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can also mix by hand with a spoon, but using an electric mixer makes the process faster and more efficient.
- Shape the Dough: Roll the dough into small balls, about one inch in diameter. Arrange the dough balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about one inch apart to ensure that the cookies bake evenly and don’t stick together.
- Flatten the Dough: Take a fork and press down gently on each dough ball to flatten it slightly. Create a criss-cross pattern by pressing the fork into the dough at a 90-degree angle to your first press. This not only gives your cookies their signature appearance but also helps them bake more evenly.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the cookies at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden and firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven.
- Cool the Cookies: Once the cookies are done, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cookies maintain their shape as they firm up.
Enjoy your freshly baked peanut butter cookies, and watch how quickly they disappear!
How to Store Your Homemade Peanut Butter Cookies
Storing your 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies is easy. Once they’ve cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container or cookie jar. They’ll stay fresh at room temperature for up to five days. To keep them tasting freshly baked, you can place a slice of bread inside the container to help absorb moisture. This will prevent the cookies from becoming too soft.
Can You Freeze These Peanut Butter Cookies?
Absolutely! Freezing these peanut butter cookies is a great way to make them ahead of time and enjoy them later. The best method is to freeze the dough balls before baking. Simply roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as usual, adding a minute or two to the baking time if needed.
FAQs for 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter, but it will affect the texture slightly, giving your cookies a bit more crunch. I recommend using creamy peanut butter for a smoother dough and chewier cookie texture.
Can I use a sugar substitute for these cookies?
Yes, you can substitute white sugar with a sugar alternative like Stevia or Monk Fruit sweetener, but keep in mind that the texture and sweetness might vary. Adjust the amount based on the type of substitute you’re using.
What can I do if my dough is too dry?
If your dough seems too dry and crumbly, add a small amount of peanut butter or a teaspoon of milk to bring it together. Just a little moisture will help the dough bind.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! While this recipe is delicious on its own, you can always mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a dash of vanilla extract for an extra flavor boost.
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, these 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies are perfect! They’re incredibly easy to make and come together in just 25 minutes. Here’s the quick version of the recipe:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Yield: 2 dozen cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the peanut butter, sugar, and egg until smooth.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet, 1 inch apart.
- Use a fork to flatten each dough ball, making a criss-cross pattern.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and firm.
- Let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your delicious, easy-to-make peanut butter cookies!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
- Calories: 98
- Fat: 6g
- Carbs: 11g
- Protein: 3g