Introduction
Welcome to Adrian Recipes, where today we’re diving into the delightful world of homemade cookies with our irresistible Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to deliver soft, chewy cookies that are bursting with peanut butter flavor. As you embark on this baking journey, we’ll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve that perfect batch every time.
Ingredients List
To create these delectable peanut butter cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (lightly spooned and leveled)
- ¾ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (salted)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sea salt (optional, for topping)
Timing
Preparation Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 8 to 10 minutes
Total Time:
- Approximately 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder until well combined. This helps distribute the baking powder evenly, ensuring a consistent rise.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This aerates the butter-sugar mixture, creating a light texture.
Step 4: Add Peanut Butter, Egg, and Vanilla
Add the peanut butter and mix until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, scraping down the sides as needed to ensure even mixing.
Step 5: Combine with Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender crumb.
Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly to allow room for spreading.
Step 7: Create the Crisscross Pattern
Using a fork dipped in sugar, press down each ball gently in a crisscross pattern. This classic touch not only adds texture but also helps the cookies bake evenly.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of these peanut butter cookies contains approximately:
- Calories: 180
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 90mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 3g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
For a healthier twist on this classic recipe, consider these substitutions:
- Whole Wheat Flour: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Natural Peanut Butter: Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils.
- Coconut Sugar: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
Serving Suggestions
These peanut butter cookies are perfect on their own, but why not elevate them with these serving ideas:
- Pair with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea.
- Crumble over vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
- Use as a base for ice cream sandwiches by adding a scoop of your favorite flavor between two cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies, so mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your cookies; they should be slightly underdone when removed from the oven to maintain their chewiness.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet to finish cooking through and firm up.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
To keep your peanut butter cookies fresh:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Conclusion
This Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is a timeless favorite that combines simplicity with deliciousness. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies are sure to hit the spot. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!
FAQs
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to your cookies.
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version.
Q: How can I make the cookies more festive?
A: Consider adding chocolate chips or drizzling melted chocolate over the top for an extra treat.
For more delightful recipes and baking tips, don’t forget to check out our other posts on Adrian Recipes. Happy baking!
Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder until well combined.
- In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy.
- Add the peanut butter and mix until smooth. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Do not overmix.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly.
- Using a fork dipped in sugar, press down each ball gently in a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges start to turn golden. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
