Peanut Butter Cookies
Peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat that balances rich, nutty flavours with just the right amount of sweetness. This recipe is straightforward, requiring only a handful of pantry staples to create cookies that are soft, chewy, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these cookies are sure to become a favourite in your home.
INGREDIENTS
180 g (1 1/2 cups) of all-purpose flour
113 g (1/2 cup) of unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
250 g (1 cup) of peanut butter
100 g (1/2 cup) of brown sugar
100 g (1/2 cup) of granulated sugar
5 ml (1 teaspoon) of vanilla extract
1 large egg
3 g (1/2 teaspoon) of baking powder
METHOD
1. Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Whisk the mixture to ensure even distribution of the leavening agent.
3. Combine the Sugars
Add both the brown sugar and granulated sugar to the flour mixture, whisking to blend them thoroughly. The combination of sugars gives the cookies a perfect balance of moisture and sweetness.
4. Incorporate the Butters
Add the softened butter and peanut butter to the dry ingredients. Using your hands or a sturdy spatula, knead the mixture until it forms a cohesive dough. The peanut butter provides a rich, nutty base while the butter adds a velvety texture.
5. Add the Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, ensuring they are fully incorporated into the dough. The egg binds the ingredients, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavour profile.
6. Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 20 evenly sized balls, roughly the size of a walnut. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each ball for spreading during baking.
7. Create the Signature Pattern
Flatten each cookie slightly with your hand, then use a fork to press a criss-cross pattern onto the top. This step is both functional and decorative, ensuring the cookies bake evenly and sport their classic look.
8. Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on the cookies; they should be golden around the edges but still soft in the centre.
9. Cool Completely
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on the tray. This step is crucial, as the cookies will continue to set and firm up as they cool.
Pro Tips:
For extra crunch, consider adding a handful of chopped peanuts to the dough.
If you prefer a sweeter cookie, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or dip half of each cookie in chocolate.
These peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion, from afternoon snacks to holiday gatherings. Their irresistible flavour and texture make them a surefire crowd-pleaser. Enjoy with a glass of milk or your favourite cup of tea!
