There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked peanut butter cookies wafting through your home. Whether you’re curled up under a blanket on a chilly autumn day, hosting a holiday cookie exchange, or simply satisfying a late-night sweet tooth, these thick and chewy peanut butter cookies are the ultimate comfort food.
Inspired by my grandmother’s classic recipe and perfected with a few modern tweaks, these cookies deliver a nostalgic experience with every bite—soft in the center, crisp at the edges, and packed with rich, nutty flavor. If you grew up eating peanut butter sandwiches or sneaking spoonfuls straight from the jar (guilty!), you’re going to fall in love with this recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re searching for a no-fuss, consistently delicious cookie that pleases a crowd or comforts your inner child, you’ve just found it. Here’s why these cookies are bound to become a favorite:
- Incredible texture: Thick, chewy centers with lightly crisp edges.
- Simple ingredients: Nothing fancy—just pantry staples.
- Peanut butter lovers’ dream: Bursting with creamy, roasted peanut flavor.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
- Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for parties, gifting, lunchboxes, or cozy evenings.
These cookies are made with creamy peanut butter, but if you’re a fan of extra texture, feel free to experiment with crunchy peanut butter or even stir in some chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for a twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the baking, let’s gather our ingredients. Everything listed is a common household staple, making this recipe even more accessible.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/3 cup chopped peanuts
- A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top
Each ingredient plays a key role: brown sugar adds moisture and depth, peanut butter offers that signature taste, and milk helps bind everything together for that perfect chewy texture.
How to Make Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
Let’s walk through this simple and satisfying recipe step-by-step.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly, so your cookies rise just the right amount.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, using a hand or stand mixer, cream the softened butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Creaming incorporates air, giving your cookies their lift.
Step 4: Add Egg, Vanilla, and Milk
Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk. These wet ingredients add richness and help bind everything together. Continue mixing until smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until the dough is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this can lead to tough cookies.
Step 6: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough into 1.5-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, leaving at least 2 inches of space between each.
Step 7: Crisscross Fork Pattern
Lightly press each dough ball with a fork in a crisscross pattern. This not only flattens the cookies slightly but also gives them that classic peanut butter cookie look.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and set, but the centers remain soft and slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook slightly on the tray after removal.
Step 9: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set up perfectly without drying out.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies Every Time
- Chill the dough: For extra thick cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Don’t overbake: These cookies should look slightly underdone in the center when you take them out. That’s how they stay soft and chewy!
- Choose the right peanut butter: Use natural peanut butter (just peanuts and salt) for a more robust flavor, or stick with commercial brands for a classic, smooth finish.
- For extra indulgence: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate or drizzle white chocolate over the top.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Storing:
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Add a slice of bread or apple to the container to keep the cookies soft for longer.
Freezing Baked Cookies:
- Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave before serving.
Freezing Cookie Dough:
- Scoop dough balls, place on a tray, and freeze until solid.
- Transfer to a freezer-safe bag and bake straight from frozen—just add an extra 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
Peanut Butter Cookie FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds a bit of texture, which can be delightful. Just keep in mind it may affect how the dough spreads slightly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely—substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure it’s one formulated for baking.
How do I make them dairy-free?
Swap the butter for a vegan alternative or coconut oil and use non-dairy milk. Be sure your peanut butter doesn’t contain added milk products.
Serving Ideas for Your Peanut Butter Cookies
These cookies are perfect on their own, but you can easily dress them up or pair them with:
- A cold glass of milk (classic combo)
- Crumbled into ice cream for a homemade dessert mix-in
- Sandwiched with chocolate ganache or peanut butter frosting
- With a hot cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon treat
For special occasions, try wrapping them in twine or placing them in clear treat bags for a lovely homemade gift.
Why These Cookies Are Worth Sharing
Peanut butter cookies are the kind of treat that brings people together. They’re universally loved, nostalgic, and satisfying without being overly complicated. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer, this recipe is nearly foolproof.
Plus, they’re great for sharing: bake a batch and surprise your coworkers, neighbors, or friends—or keep them all to yourself (we won’t judge!).
Nutrition Facts (Per Cookie)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Sugar: 14g
- Protein: 5g
These cookies are indulgent but still reasonably portioned. Enjoy in moderation, or don’t—after all, life is short, and cookies are good.
Final Thoughts: Bake It, Love It, Share It!
If you’ve been craving the ultimate thick and chewy peanut butter cookie, this is the recipe for you. It checks every box: buttery, soft, sweet, a little salty, and oh-so-satisfying.
Now that you’ve got the recipe and all the tips, it’s time to get baking! We’d love to hear how your cookies turn out—tag us in your cookie pics or share this post with your fellow peanut butter fanatics.
Happy baking! 🥜🍪