3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

For a quick dessert, try 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies using only peanut butter, sugar, and an egg. This straightforward recipe offers a satisfying treat with minimal effort.
Beyond simplicity, explore texture, flavor balance, and creative variations to make these cookies your own. Ready to personalize this classic recipe?
Recipe
Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that combines the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with a slightly sweet and chewy texture.
These cookies are incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect baking project for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike. The delightful aroma of freshly baked peanut butter cookies will fill your kitchen, enticing anyone nearby to come and indulge in these delicious bites.
Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a dessert to share at gatherings, or simply a way to satisfy your sweet tooth, peanut butter cookies are sure to please.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up a batch of these delightful cookies in no time. Get ready to enjoy warm, gooey cookies that will bring smiles to faces young and old.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Now let’s move on to the cooking steps.
Cooking Steps
Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring those delicious peanut butter cookies to life!
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, so it’s nice and warm when you’re ready to bake.
With just a few simple steps, like mixing your peanut butter and sugar, you’ll soon be enjoying warm, gooey cookies right from the oven!
Step 1. Preheat Oven to 350°F
Before you plunge into mixing the ingredients, preheating your oven to 350°F is vital for achieving perfectly baked peanut butter cookies. This step might seem simple, but it plays a significant role in how your cookies turn out. When you preheat your oven, you guarantee that the heat is evenly distributed, allowing your cookies to bake consistently.
Start by turning on your oven and setting it to 350°F. It’s a good idea to check your oven’s thermometer to verify it’s accurate, as some ovens can run hot or cold.
While it’s preheating, you can gather your ingredients and get everything ready for mixing. This not only maximizes your time in the kitchen but also keeps your excitement levels high as you smell that warm, nutty aroma wafting through the air.
Once the oven reaches the desired temperature, you’ll be all set to bake those delicious peanut butter cookies. Trust me, the anticipation of that first warm bite will be worth it!
Step 2. Mix Peanut Butter and Sugar

Combine the creamy peanut butter and sugar in a mixing bowl to create a rich, sweet base for your cookies. This step is essential as it sets the foundation for the delightful flavors to come. Grab your mixing spoon and get ready to whip up something amazing!
- Use smooth peanut butter – For the best texture, opt for creamy peanut butter. It blends beautifully, giving your cookies a melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- Choose granulated sugar – Regular granulated sugar works wonders for sweetness and enhances that classic cookie crunch.
- Mix until well-blended – Stir the peanut butter and sugar together until they form a cohesive mixture. You want to see no sugar granules left; it should look creamy and inviting.
- Feel the excitement – As you mix, let the aroma of peanut butter fill your kitchen! This moment is a reminder of the delicious cookies that await you.
Once you finish mixing, you’ll feel the anticipation building. This sweet, nutty blend is the heart of your cookies, promising a delightful treat.
Step 3. Add Egg and Vanilla
As you continue crafting your cookie dough, adding an egg and vanilla extract brings everything together, enhancing both flavor and texture. Crack that egg into your mixing bowl, and watch as it transforms your mixture into something creamy and rich. The egg acts as a binding agent, guaranteeing your cookies hold their shape while baking.
Next, pour in your vanilla extract. Just a teaspoon will do! This little touch adds a warm, sweet aroma that’ll have everyone guessing your secret ingredient.
As you mix these into your dough, you’ll feel the consistency change, becoming smoother and more cohesive. Don’t rush this step; take your time to guarantee everything is well combined.
You’ll notice the delightful scent filling your kitchen, making the anticipation of those cookies even sweeter. The combination of the egg and vanilla not only enhances the flavor but also gives your cookies that perfect, soft texture we all love.
Step 4. Scoop Dough Onto Baking Sheet
Now it’s time to scoop that delicious dough onto your baking sheet! This is where the magic really starts to happen, and you’ll soon have warm, gooey cookies filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas.
Grab a cookie scoop or two spoons, and let’s get to work. Here’s how to do it:
- Prep Your Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Scoop the Dough: Use your cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Each scoop should be about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Space Them Out: Place the dough balls on the baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each one. This gives them room to spread while baking.
- Flatten Slightly: Gently press down on each dough ball with a fork or your fingers to create a little flat surface. This helps them bake evenly.
You’re almost there! Just imagining those cookies baking and turning golden brown is enough to get anyone excited.
Plus, you’ll love how easy this step is. Get ready to indulge in your homemade peanut butter cookies soon!
Step 5. Bake for 10-12 Minutes

Once you’ve shaped your cookie dough, it’s time to pop the baking sheet into the oven and let the magic happen. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to guarantee it’s ready to create those delicious peanut butter cookies.
As you place the baking sheet inside, you’ll feel a rush of excitement knowing that in just 10 to 12 minutes, your kitchen will be filled with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked cookies.
Set a timer for 10 minutes and keep an eye on them as they bake. You want to see the edges turning a lovely golden brown, while the centers might still look a little soft. Don’t worry; they’ll firm up as they cool!
When the timer goes off, check your cookies. If they need a minute or two more, it’s perfectly fine to let them go a bit longer.
Once they’re done, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven, and let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Enjoy the anticipation as you wait, knowing that your homemade peanut butter cookies are just moments away from being devoured!
Final Thoughts
While you might be tempted to stick with store-bought cookies, making your own peanut butter cookies can be a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas.
There’s something truly special about crafting these treats from scratch, and you’ll love the way they taste fresh out of the oven. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make!
Here are a few reasons to whip up a batch today:
- Customization: You can easily adjust the sweetness or add chocolate chips, nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt to match your taste.
- Quality Control: You know exactly what goes into your cookies, ensuring they’re made with the best ingredients.
- Fun Activity: Baking can be a great family activity, where everyone gets to participate and share in the delicious results.
- Storage: These cookies freeze beautifully, allowing you to enjoy them later, fresh and tasty!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Peanut Butter With Almond Butter?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter in most recipes. Just keep in mind that almond butter has a slightly different flavor and texture, which might affect the final outcome. Enjoy experimenting!
How Do I Store Leftover Peanut Butter Cookies?
To store leftover cookies, let ’em cool completely, then place ’em in an airtight container. You can keep ’em at room temperature for a few days or refrigerate for longer freshness. Enjoy your treats!
Are There Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?
Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie without the gluten. Absolutely, you can use almond flour or a gluten-free blend instead of regular flour. It’ll give you that delightful texture while keeping it gluten-free. Enjoy!
How Long Do These Cookies Last at Room Temperature?
These cookies typically last about a week at room temperature if stored in an airtight container. Just make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and humidity to maintain their freshness and flavor longer.
Can I Add Chocolate Chips to the Recipe?
Absolutely, you can add chocolate chips to the recipe! Just fold them in after mixing the dough. It’ll enhance the flavor and create a delicious combination that you’ll love. Enjoy your baking!
Conclusion
Indulge in the secret to warm, chewy goodness with these 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies. In just a few simple steps, create a treat that fills your kitchen with the sweet aroma of baking.
Imagine biting into a cookie that melts in your mouth, blending peanut butter and sugar perfectly. Try this easy recipe—your taste buds will thank you, and your friends will beg for more!