Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Byjessica
Easy 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies on a baking tray

Here’s a delightful recipe that anyone can whip up in no time! These Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are a favorite among cookie lovers for their simplicity and delicious flavor. With just peanut butter, sugar, and an egg, you can create mouth-watering cookies that are rich, chewy, and packed with the nutty taste of peanut butter. Perfect for a quick snack or a last-minute dessert, they are sure to satisfy cravings.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Total Time: 20-22 minutes
  • Servings: 12 cookies
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 120
  • Protein: 4g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fat: 8g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 70mg

Why Make This Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

These cookies are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also require minimal ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. The combination of peanut butter and sugar creates a delightful sweetness, while the egg helps bind everything together. They’re perfect for kids and adults alike—great for baking with little ones or for an after-school snack. Plus, you can have a fresh batch of cookies ready in under 30 minutes!

How to Make Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Making these cookies is straightforward and fun! Follow these simple steps to enjoy fresh, warm peanut butter cookies.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg

Directions:

  • Step 1: Preparation

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cookies will bake evenly.

  • Step 2: Mixing

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. You’ll want to see a creamy texture forming.

  • Step 3: Forming the Cookies

    Once the dough is mixed, use your hands to roll it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

  • Step 4: Flattening

    Using a fork, press down gently on each cookie ball to flatten it slightly. Create a criss-cross pattern on top, which not only looks nice but also helps the cookies bake evenly.

  • Step 5: Baking

    Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are just lightly browned around the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking, as they can become dry.

  • Step 6: Cooling

    Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

How to Serve Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can also serve them with a glass of milk for a classic combination. Consider stacking them high on a plate for a sweet presentation at parties, or pack them in lunchboxes for a treat to enjoy during the day.

How to Store Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. To freeze, place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to harden, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Expert Tips for Perfect Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

  • Ensure your peanut butter is well-stirred if it’s natural peanut butter; you want it creamy for the best texture.
  • For a little extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt or a splash of vanilla extract to the mix.
  • If your dough seems too sticky, you can chill it for about 30 minutes in the fridge before forming the balls.
  • Don’t over-bake! The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

Delicious Variations

  • Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies: Add half a cup of chocolate chips to the dough for extra sweetness and rich chocolate flavor.
  • Oatmeal Peanut Butter Cookies: Mix in half a cup of quick oats for a heartier cookie with a pleasant chew.
  • Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies: Swap out smooth peanut butter for crunchy to add texture.
  • Sugar-free or Reduced Sugar: Consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol for a healthier version.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use natural peanut butter?
    Yes! Just make sure to stir it well to mix the oil that may separate.

  • What can I substitute for sugar?
    You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia or Erythritol, but the texture may differ slightly.

  • How do I know when my cookies are done?
    They should be lightly browned at the edges and still soft in the center. They will solidify as they cool.

  • Can I double the recipe?
    Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you want.

  • What if I don’t have eggs?
    You can use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a substitute.

Conclusion

There’s something truly special about a homemade cookie that fills your kitchen with warmth and the smell of deliciousness. These Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies not only deliver on taste but also on simplicity. They’re perfect for busy days when you want a treat without a lengthy process. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful process of baking these scrumptious cookies. Your taste buds will thank you!

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