Name: Peanut Butter Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter; 1 cup sugar; 1 egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt

It should entice the reader and set the tone for the dish. Peanut butter cookies are a classic favorite, combining the nutty richness of peanut butter with a soft, chewy texture. Perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert, these cookies are simple to prepare and require minimal ingredients. With just a few steps, you can create a batch that will have everyone asking for more!

Ingredients

– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is 10-12 minutes, making it a quick and delightful treat.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 90 calories, 4g protein, 7g fat, 7g carbohydrates, and 1g fiber. This nutritional breakdown is based on a standard recipe serving size.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg. 3. Add vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt to the mixture. 4. Stir until the ingredients form a smooth dough. 5. Use a tablespoon to scoop the dough and roll into balls. 6. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. 7. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern. 8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. 9. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. 10. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter for peanut butter if you have nut allergies. Also, consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor or coconut sugar for a healthier option.

Serving and Pairings

These peanut butter cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea. You can also serve them alongside ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

Cooking Mistakes

Using unsweetened peanut butter can result in bland cookies.
Overbaking will lead to dry cookies; keep an eye on them.
Not flattening the dough can cause uneven baking.
Skipping the cooling step can result in crumbly cookies.
Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture.

Helpful Tips

Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
Add chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
Try sprinkling sea salt on top before baking for a flavor boost.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly due to its oil separation. Stir it well before measuring.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool.

Can I add other ingredients to the dough?

Absolutely! Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for varied flavors and textures.

What type of sugar is best for these cookies?

Granulated sugar is commonly used, but brown sugar can add moisture and a deeper flavor.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free.

Conclusion

Peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat that brings joy with every bite. Their simplicity and flavor make them perfect for any occasion, whether you’re baking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet moment at home. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will delight family and friends alike!