3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Imagine the aroma of warm, freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen, a scent that instantly brings a smile to everyone’s face. That’s exactly what happened in my home last weekend when I decided to try a recipe that seemed almost too simple to be true: 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies. Skeptical yet intrigued, I gathered the unbelievably short list of ingredients – peanut butter, sugar, and an egg – and got to work. The process was so quick and easy, even my youngest could help. And the result? Absolutely delicious! These cookies are chewy, peanut-buttery perfection, with a slightly crisp edge and a melt-in-your-mouth center. My family devoured them in minutes, declaring them a new favorite. If you’re looking for a foolproof, incredibly easy, and utterly satisfying cookie recipe, look no further. These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are a game-changer, perfect for busy weeknights, impromptu gatherings, or simply when that cookie craving hits. Prepare to be amazed by how much flavor and delight can come from just three humble ingredients!

Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

This recipe is delightfully simple, requiring only three pantry staples. Here’s what you’ll need to create these amazing cookies:

• 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter: The star of the show! Use your favorite creamy peanut butter. For best results, avoid natural peanut butter where the oil separates significantly, as it can affect the cookie texture. Regular creamy peanut butter provides the perfect balance of flavor and consistency for these cookies.
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar: Sugar not only adds sweetness but also plays a crucial role in the cookie’s texture, contributing to its chewiness and slightly crisp edges. Plain white granulated sugar works best for this recipe, ensuring the classic peanut butter cookie flavor shines through.
• 1 Large Egg: The binder! One large egg helps to bring the dough together, adding moisture and structure to the cookies. It helps create that perfect chewy texture and prevents the cookies from being too crumbly.

Instructions: Baking Your 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Ready to bake? These cookies are incredibly easy to make. Follow these simple step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have warm, delicious cookies in no time.

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the ideal temperature for baking these cookies to ensure they are cooked through without burning. While the oven is preheating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Parchment paper is recommended for easy cleanup and to prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet. A silicone mat also works wonderfully and is reusable.
2. Combine Ingredients in a Mixing Bowl: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of creamy peanut butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using a sturdy spoon or a rubber spatula, mix these two ingredients together until they are thoroughly combined and smooth. It might take a minute or two of mixing to get them fully incorporated, but keep stirring until you have a consistent mixture. The mixture will start to become slightly thick and pasty.
3. Incorporate the Egg: Crack one large egg into the bowl with the peanut butter and sugar mixture. Now, continue to mix all three ingredients together until they are completely combined and form a smooth dough. Initially, it might seem like the egg isn’t fully incorporating, but keep mixing. As you mix, the dough will come together and become more cohesive. Ensure there are no streaks of egg yolk visible and that the dough is uniform in color and texture. The dough will be quite thick and slightly sticky, which is exactly what you want for these cookies.
4. Shape the Cookie Dough: Once the dough is mixed, it’s time to shape the cookies. You can use a spoon or a cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll the dough into approximately 1-inch balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking – about 2 inches apart is ideal. These cookies don’t spread a huge amount, but a little space is still necessary.
5. Create the Classic Fork Marks (Optional but Recommended): This step is optional but highly recommended for that classic peanut butter cookie look and texture. Take a fork and lightly dip the tines into sugar (this prevents sticking). Then, gently press the fork onto each cookie dough ball in a crisscross pattern. First, press down lightly in one direction, and then rotate the fork 90 degrees and press down again to create the signature crisscross pattern. This not only flattens the cookies slightly but also creates those characteristic ridges, which help the cookies bake evenly and look beautiful.
6. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet with the shaped cookies into the preheated oven. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, especially towards the end of the baking time. You want the edges of the cookies to be just starting to turn golden brown, but the centers should still be slightly soft. They might not look fully cooked when you take them out, but they will continue to set as they cool. Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s always best to start checking for doneness at the 8-minute mark.
7. Cool on Baking Sheet and Transfer to Wire Rack: Once baked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 to 10 minutes. This allows them to firm up a bit, making them easier to handle. After the initial cooling on the baking sheet, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling them on a wire rack prevents the bottoms from getting soggy and allows air to circulate, ensuring they cool evenly and maintain their perfect texture.
8. Enjoy! Once the cookies are completely cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed! These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are delicious warm or at room temperature. They are perfect with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or simply on their own as a delightful treat. Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days.

Nutrition Facts for 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

These simple cookies, while delicious, should be enjoyed as a treat in moderation as they are calorie-dense. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per cookie (based on a recipe making about 18 cookies, and using standard creamy peanut butter and granulated sugar):

• Serving Size: 1 cookie
• Calories: Approximately 110-130 kcal
• Fat: 7-9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5-2g
• Cholesterol: 10-15mg
• Sodium: 50-70mg (varies depending on peanut butter)
• Carbohydrates: 9-11g
  • Sugars: 8-10g
• Protein: 3-4g

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used, particularly the type of peanut butter and the size of the cookies. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time for 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

From start to finish, these cookies are incredibly quick to make, perfect for when you need a sweet treat in a hurry.

• Prep Time: 5-10 minutes (This includes gathering ingredients, mixing the dough, and shaping the cookies.)
• Bake Time: 8-10 minutes (Oven time to bake the cookies until golden brown edges.)
• Cooling Time: 15-20 minutes (Initial cooling on the baking sheet and then cooling completely on a wire rack.)
• Total Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes

This recipe is a true time-saver, making it ideal for busy weeknights, last-minute dessert cravings, or when you need to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The minimal prep and quick baking time mean you can have freshly baked cookies ready to enjoy in under an hour!

How to Serve 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

These versatile cookies can be enjoyed in so many ways! Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Classic Pairings:
  • With a Glass of Cold Milk: The quintessential cookie companion! Milk and peanut butter cookies are a match made in heaven.
  • Alongside Hot Coffee or Tea: The sweetness of the cookie balances perfectly with the warmth and slight bitterness of coffee or tea.
  • With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: Create an instant dessert sundae by serving warm peanut butter cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
• Elevated Dessert Options:
  • Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches: Let the cookies cool completely, then sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream (vanilla, chocolate, or even more peanut butter!) between two cookies. Freeze briefly for a firmer treat.
  • Crumbled as a Topping: Crumble cooled peanut butter cookies over yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothie bowls for added texture and flavor.
  • Dipped in Chocolate: Melt some dark or milk chocolate and dip half or all of the cooled cookies into the melted chocolate. Let the chocolate set for an extra decadent treat.
• Fun and Festive Servings:
  • Cookie Platter: Include these peanut butter cookies as part of a cookie platter with other homemade or store-bought cookies for parties or gatherings.
  • Gift Giving: Package a batch of these cookies in a decorative tin or bag as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends, neighbors, or teachers.
  • Lunchbox Treat: Individually wrap cookies and pack them as a special treat in lunchboxes (check school guidelines regarding peanut products).
• Simple and Satisfying:
  • Enjoy Them Warm: There’s nothing quite like a warm, freshly baked peanut butter cookie. Enjoy them slightly warm straight from the oven (after they’ve cooled slightly on the baking sheet!).
  • Perfect Snack: Keep a batch of these cookies on hand for a quick and satisfying snack any time of day.

No matter how you choose to serve them, these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are sure to be a hit!

Additional Tips for Perfect 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

While this recipe is incredibly simple, these tips will help you achieve cookie perfection every time:

1. Use the Right Peanut Butter: For the best texture and flavor, use regular creamy peanut butter, like Jif or Skippy. Natural peanut butters, especially those with oil separation, can result in drier, more crumbly cookies. If you do use natural peanut butter, make sure it’s very well stirred and consider adding a tablespoon or two of oil to the dough if it seems too dry.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix the ingredients just until they are combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten (even though there’s no flour, the peanut butter has proteins), which can make the cookies tougher. Mix until everything is just incorporated and smooth.
3. Chill the Dough (Optional for Firmer Cookies): If you prefer slightly thicker and less spread-out cookies, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before baking. Chilling helps to firm up the butter (in the peanut butter) and prevents excessive spreading in the oven.
4. Adjust Sugar for Sweetness Preference: If you prefer less sweet cookies, you can reduce the sugar slightly, down to ¾ cup. However, keep in mind that sugar also contributes to the texture, so reducing it too much might affect the chewiness and crispness.
5. Experiment with Extracts (Optional Flavor Boost): While these cookies are delicious as is, you can add a touch of flavor with extracts. A teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract can enhance the flavor profile without adding extra ingredients. Stir the extract in along with the egg.
6. Add Mix-Ins for Variety: Get creative with mix-ins! Fold in chocolate chips (mini or regular), chopped nuts (like peanuts or pecans), dried cranberries, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for added texture and flavor complexity.
7. Watch Baking Time Carefully: These cookies bake quickly. Overbaking will make them dry and crumbly. Bake just until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set but still slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Start checking for doneness at 8 minutes and adjust the baking time as needed for your oven.
8. Proper Storage is Key: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Got questions about making these simple and delicious cookies? Here are answers to some common queries:

Q1: Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can, but it might affect the texture. Natural peanut butter tends to be oilier and can result in drier, more crumbly cookies. If using natural peanut butter, make sure it’s very well stirred and consider adding 1-2 tablespoons of oil (like vegetable or coconut oil) to the dough if it seems too dry. Regular creamy peanut butter generally yields the best results for this recipe.

Q2: Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
A: While granulated sugar is recommended for the classic texture, you can experiment with brown sugar. Brown sugar will add a molasses flavor and make the cookies chewier and slightly softer. If using brown sugar, pack it lightly when measuring. A combination of half granulated sugar and half brown sugar can also be a good option for a slightly richer flavor.

Q3: Can I make these cookies without an egg?
A: The egg acts as a binder in this recipe. While it’s possible to make them without an egg, the texture will be different and they may be more crumbly. If you need an egg substitute, you could try using 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a “flax egg” (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken). However, the texture and consistency might be altered.

Q4: My cookies are spreading too much. What did I do wrong?
A: Over-spreading can sometimes happen if your oven temperature is too low or if your peanut butter is very oily. Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature (350°F/175°C). If your peanut butter seems very oily, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking, which can help to reduce spreading. Also, ensure you are not using margarine or a very soft butter substitute, as this can also contribute to spreading.

Q5: My cookies are dry and crumbly. What went wrong?
A: Dry cookies can be a result of overbaking or using natural peanut butter without adjusting the moisture. Make sure you are not baking the cookies for too long – they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. If you used natural peanut butter, consider adding a bit of oil or another tablespoon of peanut butter next time to increase moisture.

Q6: Can I double or triple this recipe?
A: Yes, this recipe is easily scalable. You can double or triple the recipe by simply multiplying all the ingredients by the desired factor. Make sure to mix the larger batch of dough thoroughly. When baking larger batches, you might need to bake in multiple batches depending on the size of your oven and baking sheets.

Q7: Are these cookies gluten-free?
A: Yes, in their simplest form, these 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies are naturally gluten-free as they do not contain any wheat flour. However, always check the labels of your peanut butter and sugar to ensure they are certified gluten-free, especially if you have a severe gluten allergy or intolerance, as some brands might have cross-contamination.

Q8: Can I freeze the cookie dough instead of baking it all at once?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough. Shape the dough into balls as instructed, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can bake them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time. Freezing the dough is a great way to have freshly baked cookies on demand!

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