Hey there, fellow food lovers! David Anderson here, ready to guide you on a delicious journey to cookie heaven. Today, we’re tackling a timeless classic: the Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookie. These aren’t just any cookies; they’re the kind that evoke warm memories of childhood kitchens, filled with the irresistible aroma of peanut butter and sugar.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie just starting, this comprehensive guide will equip you with all the tips and tricks to create perfectly soft, chewy, and utterly irresistible peanut butter cookies. So, grab your aprons, preheat those ovens, and let’s get baking!

What Makes These Cookies So Special?

These aren’t your fancy, multi-ingredient cookies with a mile-long list of steps. These are simple, straightforward, and rely on the pure, unadulterated goodness of peanut butter to shine. A handful of pantry staples, a bit of mixing, and you’re on your way to pure cookie bliss.

Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. Want to add a chocolatey twist? Fold in some chocolate chips. Feeling adventurous? A sprinkle of sea salt on top adds a sophisticated touch. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• All-Purpose Flour: This provides the structure for our cookies.
• Baking Powder: Our secret weapon for a little rise and a soft texture.
• Salt: Just a pinch to enhance all those wonderful flavors.
• Unsalted Butter: Make sure it’s softened for optimal creaminess.
• Packed Brown Sugar: Adds moisture, chewiness, and a hint of caramel flavor.
• White Sugar: For sweetness and a bit of crispness around the edges.
• Eggs: The binding agents that hold everything together.
• Peanut Butter Chips: Because more peanut butter is always a good idea!
• Peanut Butter: The star of the show! Choose your favorite creamy peanut butter.
• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla elevates all the other flavors.

Let’s Get Baking: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and line those baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

   
   

2. Dry Ingredients Unite: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents those pesky baking powder clumps.

   
   

3. Creamy Dreamy Base: In a large bowl, grab your electric mixer and beat together the softened butter, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture is light and fluffy. This incorporates air for a tender cookie. Gradually add both sugars, beating well after each addition. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is combined evenly.

   
   

4. Incorporate the Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing develops gluten, which can lead to tough cookies. Nobody wants a tough cookie!

   
   

5. Peanut Butter Chip Extravaganza: Gently fold in those peanut butter chips. This is where you can get creative! Feel free to add other mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even pretzels.

   
   

6. Shape and Bake: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Using a fork, gently press down on each cookie to create that iconic criss-cross pattern. This helps the cookies bake evenly and adds a touch of rustic charm.

   
   

7. Into the Oven: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the tops are set. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.

   
   

8. Cool and Devour: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking apart and allows them to firm up perfectly.

   
   

Tips for Baking Success:

• Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. Overbaking can lead to dry, crumbly cookies.
• Chill Out: If your dough seems too soft, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking. This will help prevent spreading.
• Get Creative with Mix-Ins: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit.
• Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 2 months.

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and peanut butter flavor. The combination of brown sugar and white sugar creates a chewy texture, while the addition of peanut butter chips adds an extra burst of peanut butter goodness in every bite.

Nutritional Information:

While these cookies are undeniably delicious, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (1 cookie):

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value*
Calories	150
Total Fat	8g	10%
Saturated Fat	5g	24%
Cholesterol	14mg	5%
Sodium	90mg	4%
Total Carbohydrate	17g	6%
Dietary Fiber	0g	1%
Total Sugars	11g
Protein	4g	7%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

Source: ESHA Research Database

FAQs:

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?

A: While you can use natural peanut butter, keep in mind that it tends to be runnier than traditional peanut butter. This may cause your cookies to spread more during baking. If using natural peanut butter, be sure to use one that is well-stirred and doesn’t have too much oil separation. You may also want to reduce the amount of added oil in the recipe.

Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?

A: Absolutely! This dough freezes beautifully. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the baking time.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend. Be sure to choose a blend that is specifically designed for baking, as this will help ensure the best texture and results.

More Delicious Cookie Inspiration:

Looking for more cookie adventures? Check out these fantastic recipes:

• Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies – A classic for a reason!
• Oatmeal Raisin Cookies – Soft, chewy, and packed with oats and raisins.
• Snickerdoodles – Cinnamon-sugar goodness in every bite.

Conclusion:

There you have it! Everything you need to know to master the art of the Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookie. With its simple ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and endless possibilities for customization, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your loved ones, preheat that oven, and get ready to experience the joy of baking (and devouring!) these timeless treats. Happy baking!