Peanut butter cookies are one of those timeless treats that bring back fond memories of childhood and family gatherings. Grandma’s peanut butter cookies are particularly special, offering a perfect balance of chewy and crunchy textures with a rich peanut flavor that’s hard to beat. If you’re looking to bake something that will make your home smell like love and nostalgia, this classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
In this article, we’ll walk you through Grandma’s Peanut Butter Cookies recipe, share some helpful baking tips, and answer frequently asked questions to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Why This Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe is a Winner
What sets Grandma’s peanut butter cookies apart is their simplicity and authenticity. With just a handful of ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, you can create a batch of cookies that will remind you of simpler times. The addition of peanut butter gives these cookies a distinctive flavor that is irresistible.
This recipe is easy to follow, and whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll find it straightforward and fun to prepare. Plus, the best part? You get to enjoy warm, freshly baked cookies right out of the oven!
Grandma’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky, depending on your preference)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1/4 cup milk (optional for extra softness)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (optional for extra richness)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir well until smooth. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
- Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together. If you prefer softer cookies, you can add a little milk and butter to the dough. This step is optional but recommended for a richer flavor.
- Form the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart to allow space for spreading.
- Create the Signature Criss-Cross Pattern: Gently press down on each dough ball with a fork, creating a criss-cross pattern. This not only gives the cookies their signature look but also helps them bake evenly.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until they’re golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time to avoid over-baking.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Baking Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies
- Peanut Butter Choice: For a chunkier texture, use chunky peanut butter. For a smooth, soft cookie, stick with smooth peanut butter. Both versions taste delicious!
- Cookie Size: The size of your dough balls will determine how thick or thin the cookies are. For a more classic look, keep the balls about 1-inch in diameter.
- Do Not Overbake: To ensure your cookies remain soft and chewy, remove them from the oven when they are slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the middle.
- Storage Tips: Store your peanut butter cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer freshness, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind that it may result in a slightly different texture. If the peanut butter is very oily, you may want to drain some of the excess oil before using it in your recipe.
2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, which will yield similar results. Be sure to check the ingredients in your peanut butter to ensure it’s gluten-free.
3. How can I make the cookies softer or crunchier?
For a softer cookie, add a tablespoon or two of milk to the dough. To make the cookies crunchier, flatten them out more with the fork and bake a little longer, but be careful not to overdo it.
4. Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Yes, adding chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a swirl of caramel can elevate this classic recipe. If you want to experiment with different flavors, feel free to add in 1/2 to 1 cup of your favorite add-ins.
5. How long should I bake the cookies?
Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time, as ovens may vary. The cookies should be golden around the edges but soft in the center.
6. How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?
If you want your cookies to hold their shape better, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the dough firm up and prevents excessive spreading.
Conclusion
Grandma’s peanut butter cookies are a delicious and nostalgic treat that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just because, this recipe will give you the perfect balance of sweetness and peanut flavor. With a few simple ingredients and a little love, you’ll have homemade cookies that will bring smiles to your family and friends.
Now that you have the recipe and some baking tips, it’s time to get in the kitchen and enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked peanut butter cookies. Happy baking!