Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Soft peanut butter cookies are a timeless classic,warm, nostalgic, and packed with irresistible flavor. The secret to truly exceptional cookies lies in achieving that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture while keeping the peanut butter richness front and center. This recipe brings professional technique to your home kitchen, ensuring each cookie is tender, balanced, and deeply satisfying. Whether for gifting, snacking, or baking with loved ones, these cookies deliver bakery-level softness every time.
Ingredients List
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Step-by-Step Instructions

Cream the Peanut Butter and Butter
In a mixing bowl, beat the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and creamy, creating the foundation for a tender cookie texture.
Add the Sugars and Egg
Mix in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla, blending until fully incorporated.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
Chill the Dough
Refrigerate the dough for 30–45 minutes to help control spreading and enhance overall softness.
Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into small balls and gently press with a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 9–11 minutes, removing when the edges are just set for perfectly soft centers.
Cook Time
9–11 minutes
Servings
20–22 cookies (approx.)
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
- Calories: 160
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 11g
Storage Instructions
Store cookies in an airtight container for 5–6 days to maintain softness. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature for best texture. Dough can also be frozen in pre-rolled balls and baked straight from the freezer with an extra minute added.
Suggestions
- Use natural peanut butter only if well-stirred and thick; runny varieties may affect texture.
- Add chocolate chips for a richer, more indulgent twist.
- For an extra soft finish, slightly underbake and allow the cookies to set on the tray.
Seasonal Relevance
These cookies shine year-round,from cozy fall baking sessions to summer treat boxes. Their warm peanut butter aroma makes them especially comforting during winter months, but their simple, delightful flavor is welcome in any season or celebration.
Conclusion
This Soft Peanut Butter Cookies recipe delivers bakery-level results with minimal effort. Each cookie is tender, rich, and perfectly balanced,proof that simple ingredients, when handled with expertise, can produce extraordinary results. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a guaranteed success.
Soft Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
22
servings15
minutes11
minutes160
kcal26
minutesSoft Peanut Butter Cookies are tender, rich, and perfectly balanced in flavor. With a melt-in-your-mouth texture and the classic peanut butter aroma, these cookies deliver bakery-quality results at home with simple, accessible ingredients.
Ingredients
1 cup creamy peanut butter
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
Directions
- Beat peanut butter and softened butter in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add granulated sugar and brown sugar; mix until fluffy. Stir in egg and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Chill the dough for 30–45 minutes.
- Roll dough into small balls and gently press with a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 9–11 minutes, until edges are set but centers remain soft.
- Cool on a wire rack before serving.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Chilling the dough helps control spreading and enhances softness.
- Chocolate chips or chunks can be added for a richer variation.
- Slightly underbaking ensures extra soft centers.
