If you crave cookies that are satisfyingly indulgent with a perfectly chewy texture, then this Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Rich peanut butter flavor melds with the ideal balance of sweetness and a touch of salt, creating cookies that are soft and tender right out of the oven yet thick enough to satisfy every bite. These cookies are the perfect treat for cozy afternoons, sharing with loved ones, or simply whenever you need a little peanut butter bliss in your day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; every ingredient plays a vital role in crafting those luscious thick and chewy cookies. From the creamy peanut butter that infuses the cookies with deep flavor to the combination of sugars that add moisture and a gentle caramel undertone, each component contributes to the irresistible texture and taste you’ll love.
- Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup, softened: Provides a tender crumb and rich flavor without overpowering the peanut butter.
- Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup: Adds sweetness and helps with that classic cookie structure and slight crisp edges.
- Light brown sugar, 1/2 cup, gently packed: Brings moisture and depth with its molasses content, making cookies chewy and soft.
- Creamy peanut butter, 1/2 cup: The star ingredient that delivers creamy, nutty goodness in every bite.
- One large egg: Acts as a binder, creating structure while keeping cookies moist.
- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon: Enhances flavor complexity and balances sweetness beautifully.
- All-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups: Forms the sturdy yet tender base of the cookie dough.
- Baking soda, 1 teaspoon: Helps the cookies rise slightly and develop a soft texture.
- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon: Accentuates the flavors and balances the sweetness effectively.
How to Make Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to create that perfect baking environment. Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper will prevent sticking and help your cookies bake evenly.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air that ultimately makes your cookies delightfully tender yet substantial.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter, Egg, and Vanilla
Next, blend in the creamy peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl so everything is evenly combined, giving you a velvety dough base rich in flavor.
Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your leavening agent and seasoning distribute evenly and prevent clumps in the final dough.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, folding gently to avoid overmixing. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and we absolutely want to keep them soft and chewy.
Step 6: Scoop Dough and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges look set but the centers are still a little soft. This slight underbaking is the secret to that perfect, chewy center we all adore.
Step 7: Cool and Transfer
Once out of the oven, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, sealing in that thick and chewy texture you’re aiming for.
How to Serve Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Though these peanut butter cookies shine on their own, a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate the sweet and nutty flavors beautifully. For a fun twist, consider chocolate drizzle or chopped roasted peanuts to add texture and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a cold glass of milk or creamy vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that complements the cookie’s richness. For adults, a cup of black coffee or a nutty chai tea blends perfectly with the peanut butter profile.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking outside the cookie jar? Sandwich two thick and chewy peanut butter cookies with chocolate ganache or marshmallow fluff for an irresistible treat. Or crush them up as a flavorful topping for yogurt or pudding cups to bring an exciting peanut butter twist to your dessert table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your freshly baked thick and chewy peanut butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for up to one week, making snack time convenient and satisfying.
Freezing
If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Properly sealed, they can be stored for up to three months without losing their wonderful texture.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-baked softness, warm your cookies in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. Enjoy that just-baked warmth and gooey peanut butter goodness all over again.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will give your cookies a delightful texture with bits of peanuts throughout, but keep in mind the dough may be a bit less smooth when mixing.
Do I have to use both granulated and brown sugar?
Both sugars serve a unique purpose; granulated sugar helps with structure and slight crispness, while brown sugar adds moisture and chewiness. Using only one type might alter the cookie’s classic thick and chewy texture.
Is it okay to substitute butter with margarine or oil?
Butter contributes flavor and a firm texture to these cookies that oil or margarine can’t quite replicate. For best results, stick with unsalted butter for that classic taste and consistency.
Why do my cookies turn out flat instead of thick?
Flat cookies often result from using melted butter instead of softened or from overmixing the dough. Also, make sure your baking soda is fresh as it’s critical for leavening and thickness in this recipe.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Yes! Chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit can be folded into the dough to create different flavor profiles while keeping the signature thick and chewy texture intact.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the recipe for these scrumptious Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies, it’s time to get baking and share the joy. Their simple ingredients, straightforward method, and unbeatable texture make them a standout treat that anyone can master in their own kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be on repeat for every craving that calls for peanut butter goodness!
Print
Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies are deliciously soft with a perfect balance of sweetness and rich peanut butter flavor. They feature a tender, chewy center with lightly crisp edges, making them an irresistible homemade treat that’s easy to make and perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, gently packed
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you prepare the cookie dough to ensure it reaches the correct temperature for baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which helps create a tender texture.
- Add Peanut Butter and Egg: Mix in the creamy peanut butter, then add the egg and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until fully incorporated, scraping down the bowl as necessary to ensure even mixing.
- Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies thick and chewy rather than tough.
- Portion the Dough: Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough onto baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Space each scoop about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Look for edges that are set while the centers remain slightly underbaked for the best chewy texture.
- Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time allows the cookies to firm up without losing softness inside.
Notes
- For even thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture; crunchy peanut butter will change the cookie consistency.
- To enhance flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of chocolate chips.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- These cookies freeze well; freeze baked cookies or dough balls for up to 3 months.
