If you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this recipe for 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies is a lifesaver. With just three simple pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies in no time. This foolproof recipe is perfect for beginners, busy days, or a last-minute dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Requires minimal effort and takes only 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Gluten-Free: No flour needed, making it an excellent option for those avoiding gluten.
- Versatile: You can add extra ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts for variety.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need:
- 1 cup (250 g) of creamy or chunky peanut butter (natural or regular).
- 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar or brown sugar.
- 1 large egg.
Optional add-ons:
- A pinch of vanilla extract for added flavor.
- A handful of chocolate chips, crushed peanuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt for extra texture and taste.
Step-by-Step Instruction
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg.
- Stir until the ingredients are fully incorporated and form a thick dough.
- If you’re adding optional ingredients like vanilla or chocolate chips, mix them in at this stage.
3. Shape the Cookies
- Use a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop to portion out the dough.
- Roll each portion into a ball and place it on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each ball.
4. Create the Signature Crosshatch Pattern
- Using the back of a fork, gently press down on each dough ball to flatten it slightly, then rotate the fork and press again to create a crisscross pattern.
5. Bake
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes.
- The cookies will look slightly underbaked when you take them out, but they will firm up as they cool.
6. Cool and Serve
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy them as they are or with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat.
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies
- Choose Your Peanut Butter Wisely: Natural peanut butter works well but may result in a slightly crumblier texture. Regular peanut butter gives a smoother consistency.
- Don’t Overbake: The cookies continue to cook as they cool. Removing them from the oven when they’re slightly soft ensures a chewy texture.
- Storage: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This simple 3-ingredient peanut butter cookie recipe proves that delicious desserts don’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these cookies are a guaranteed hit. Make a batch (or two) today, and don’t forget to save this recipe for future cravings!
