Name: Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 egg yolk; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts or mini chocolate chips (optional)

If you’re on the hunt for a delectable dessert that satisfies your sweet cravings, look no further than these Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies. Bursting with creamy peanut butter flavor and a chewy texture that is hard to resist, this recipe is not just any cookie; it’s a nostalgic trip to your childhood. Whether you’re whipping up a batch for an after-school snack, a family gathering, or simply for yourself, these cookies are sure to bring back fond memories and create new ones too.

Peanut butter cookies are an all-time favorite for many, thanks to their rich flavor and delightful crunch. This particular recipe stands out for its simplicity and the ease with which anyone can recreate them. The blend of peanut butter and just the right amount of sweetness makes every bite a tasty treat. Plus, the cookies are made with common pantry staples, making them accessible for every level of baker.

In just 22 minutes, you can be indulging in warm, gooey cookies fresh out of the oven! Preparing these Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies is not just about the final product, but also the enjoyment of the process. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to bake something delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Simple to Make: With easy-to-follow steps, bakers of all levels can whip these up in no time.
Comfort Food: The nostalgic combination of peanut butter and sweetness warms your heart and satisfies your cravings.
Customizable: Optional add-ins like chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips enhance flavor and texture.
Perfectly Chewy: The technique of slightly underbaking ensures that every bite is soft and chewy.
Wallet-Friendly: Uses common ingredients that you likely already have at home.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the cookie-making fun, it’s key to prepare your kitchen properly. Start by gathering all your ingredients: creamy peanut butter, unsalted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, an egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, baking soda, salt, and all-purpose flour. Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature, as this will help create the perfect cookie texture.

You’ll want to equip yourself with a large mixing bowl, a hand mixer or stand mixer for effortless creaming, and a smaller bowl for whisking the dry ingredients. Having a rubber spatula at hand for folding in the chocolate chips or peanuts is beneficial. Prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper, which prevents the cookies from sticking and allows for even baking.

Ingredients

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 egg yolk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped roasted peanuts or mini chocolate chips (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

Begin by combining the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in your large mixing bowl. Using your mixer, beat these ingredients together until you achieve a light and fluffy consistency. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the mixture, which helps create that wonderfully chewy texture.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Once your butter and sugar mixture is fluffy, it’s time to add the wet ingredients. Crack in the large egg and the additional egg yolk, then pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined, ensuring that there are no streaks of egg visible. The yolk adds richness, enhancing the overall flavor of your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking evenly distributes the baking soda and salt throughout the flour, ensuring consistent leavening and flavor. Gradually add this mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough starts to come together.

Step 4: Fold in Optional Add-Ins

If you wish to elevate your cookies, consider folding in chopped roasted peanuts or mini chocolate chips at this stage. Gently mix them in using a spatula. This not only adds a delightful crunch and sweetness but allows for a fun variation on the classic cookie.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

For the ultimate thick cookie, it’s essential to chill the dough before baking. This step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. While you wait, you can preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets.

Step 6: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Once your dough has chilled, scoop out portions and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, making sure to leave some space between each cookie. Use a fork to gently press onto each ball in a crisscross pattern, which not only flattens them slightly but also adds a classic peanut butter cookie look. Bake these cookies in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked. This technique ensures that they remain chewy in the middle.

Step 7: Cool the Cookies

Once baked, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows them to firm up before you transfer them to a wire rack. After the initial cooling, move the cookies to the rack to cool completely. Enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen!

Variations

Protein: Substitute some peanut butter with almond butter for a nutty twist, or use Nutella for a chocolate indulgence.
Vegetables: Add mashed bananas or grated zucchini to create a healthier cookie option that’s still delicious.
Spices: Experiment with adding cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra depth of flavor.

Cooking Notes

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
If you want thicker cookies, do not skip the chilling time.
The cookies can be stored in an airtight container for several days or frozen for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination!
For a fun twist, make ice cream sandwiches using two cookies and your favorite ice cream flavor.

Tips

Be careful not to overbake the cookies if you prefer them soft in the center.
For even more texture, consider rolling the cookie dough in granulated sugar before baking.
Try using different nut varieties for the toppings to customize your cookies.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 150 per cookie
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 120mg

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add an additional texture to the cookies and still work perfectly in this recipe.

How should I store my cookies?

Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure they are sealed tightly.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Why are my cookies flat?

If your cookies are turning out flat, a possible reason could be that the butter was too warm or you did not chill the dough long enough. Follow the chilling instruction closely for the best results.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that bring joy to any occasion. Their rich peanut butter flavor, chewy texture, and simple preparation make them a favorite among cookie lovers everywhere. Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering or simply for yourself, these cookies are bound to be a hit. We encourage you to experiment with the variations and serving suggestions to make them your own. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us—comment below with your thoughts or variations you’ve tried. Happy baking!