This is the kind of recipe you keep tucked in a kitchen drawer, written on a small card and used often. These peanut butter cookies are made with only three ingredients, yet they come out soft, rich, and full of flavor every time. They do not need flour or dairy, just a good peanut butter, a fresh egg, and sugar. It is the sort of treat you can make in a pinch when company is on the way or when you want something warm with your tea.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 to 12 minutes
Total Time: About 20 minutes
Servings: Makes about 15
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter, well stirred
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Fork
- Cooling rack
Directions
- Heat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the cookies do not stick. - Mix the dough
Place the peanut butter, sugar, and egg in a bowl. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and soft. - Shape into balls
Scoop out small portions of dough, about a tablespoon and a half each. Roll them gently into balls and place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each one. - Press the cookies
Flatten each ball with your hand or the bottom of a glass. Then take a fork and press lightly across the top one way, then the other, to make the crisscross pattern. - Bake the cookies
Put the tray in the oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as they bake quickly. - Let them rest
Remove from the oven and let the cookies sit on the tray for a few minutes. Then move them to a rack to cool completely.
Tips and Serving Suggestions
- Always use creamy peanut butter for a soft cookie
- Do not bake too long or the cookies will turn dry
- A few chocolate chips can be stirred in for something extra special
- A light sprinkle of sea salt on top gives a lovely sweet and salty taste
- Serve fresh with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk
Storage and FAQs
Storage
Keep the cookies in a covered container on the counter for up to 5 days. If you want them to stay soft, place a small piece of bread in the container with them.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, you can. Freeze the baked cookies once they are cool, and they will keep well for up to 3 months. Warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Can I make them without eggs?
You can use a flax egg if you like. The cookies will be a bit softer but still quite good.
Why did my cookies turn out crumbly?
They may have baked too long, or the peanut butter may have been too dry. Be sure to measure carefully and take them out as soon as the edges turn golden.
Nutrition Information
Each cookie has about 145 calories, along with a bit of protein and healthy fats from the peanut butter.
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.