Four Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
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Peanut butter cookies are a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of childhood baking sessions and cozy family gatherings. Simple yet satisfying, these four-ingredient peanut butter cookies boast a rich, nutty flavor that appeals to both kids and adults alike. What makes them especially appealing is their ease of preparation—the dough comes together in minutes, and the cookies are baked to perfection in just a short time. If you’ve ever craved a warm, gooey cookie paired with a glass of milk, this recipe is your new go-to!
Why you’ll love this dish
There are countless reasons to whip up this delightful recipe, but let’s start with the most compelling factors. For starters, it requires only four ingredients, making it an incredibly budget-friendly option. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute dessert for a potluck or a fun baking project with the kids, this is the ideal choice. It’s quick, simple, and the results are downright delicious.
“These cookies are the quickest and easiest treat I’ve ever made! The kids love helping, and they disappear in minutes!” — Sarah T.
Perfect for a weekday treat, a school lunch snack, or even a family game night, these peanut butter cookies are satisfying and adaptable to any occasion.
Preparing Four Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Making these cookies is a breeze. The cooking process flows seamlessly, ensuring that even novice bakers can successfully create a batch of these delightful treats. Here’s how it breaks down: gather your ingredients, mix them together, form cookie balls, flatten, bake, and cool. It doesn’t get much simpler than that!
What you’ll need
To bring these irresistible cookies to life, you’ll need:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ¾ cup brown sugar (lightly packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Feel free to substitute the creamy peanut butter with crunchy if you prefer a bit of texture. Alternatively, you can use natural peanut butter—just keep in mind it may slightly alter the texture and taste.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together the peanut butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Using a 2-inch cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll it into balls. Place these cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they have space to spread.
- Flatten each ball slightly with a fork to create a criss-cross pattern.
- Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops look dry.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
The enjoyment doesn’t stop at just eating these cookies plain. You can serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful sundae, or crumble them over yogurt for a tasty parfait. For a rich indulgence, consider pairing them with a drizzle of melted chocolate. They also make an excellent snack when enjoyed with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee—all perfect complements!
How to store & freeze
To keep your leftover cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last about a week, but there’s no guarantee they will last that long! If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready for a treat, let them thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.
Helpful cooking tips
- Ensure your peanut butter is at room temperature for smoother mixing—this helps the ingredients combine seamlessly.
- If you prefer a sweeter cookie, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar to the mix.
- To achieve the perfect criss-cross design, dip the fork in a bit of flour to prevent sticking.
Creative twists
Want to put your own spin on this classic recipe? Try adding a handful of chocolate chips for extra sweetness or mixing in chopped nuts for added crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap out the peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter to cater to different dietary preferences.
Your questions answered
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that natural peanut butter might yield a slightly different texture, but the cookies will still be delicious.
How long does it take to make these cookies?
From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 20 to 30 minutes baking these cookies, making them perfect for a quick treat!
Can I store the dough in the fridge for later use?
Yes! You can refrigerate the cookie dough for up to a week. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop out the dough and bake as directed!
With their rich flavor, simplicity, and adaptability, these four-ingredient peanut butter cookies are destined to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the process and, most importantly, savor the delicious cookies!
