3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Introduction
These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are delightfully simple and quick to make, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth with minimal effort. With just peanut butter, sugar, and an egg, you can enjoy soft and chewy treats that highlight the rich flavor of peanut butter.
Ingredients
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter (well-stirred if using natural peanut butter)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Step 1: Arrange two oven racks to divide the oven into thirds and preheat the oven to 350℉. Line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Mix thoroughly with a flexible spatula until the dough is well combined.
- Step 3: Scoop the dough into 24 level 1-tablespoon portions and roll each into a ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart, with 12 dough balls per sheet.
- Step 4: Flatten each dough ball with a fork to about 2 inches wide and 1/4 inch thick, creating a crosshatch pattern on top.
- Step 5: Bake the cookies for 5 minutes. Then, rotate the baking sheets between the oven racks and turn them front to back.
- Step 6: Continue baking for 5 to 7 more minutes until the centers are set, the cookies are lightly puffed, and the edges are firm.
- Step 7: Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheets, about 30 minutes. They will firm up as they cool.
Tips & Variations
- Use natural peanut butter for a more intense peanut flavor, but make sure to stir it well before measuring.
- Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness, especially if using unsalted peanut butter.
- For a chocolate twist, dip half of each cooled cookie in melted dark chocolate and let it set.
- If you prefer crunchy cookies, fold in some chopped peanuts before baking.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them soft, add a slice of bread to the container. These cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving. To refresh slightly hardened cookies, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter will work well and add extra texture to the cookies, giving a pleasant crunch with each bite.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
No, chilling is not necessary for this recipe. The dough is ready to bake as soon as it’s mixed, making it quick and convenient.
Print
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 52 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
These simple and delicious 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for a quick treat made with just peanut butter, sugar, and an egg. Soft and chewy with a classic peanut butter flavor, they require minimal ingredients and effort, making them ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter (well-stirred if using natural peanut butter)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Arrange two racks to divide the oven into thirds and preheat to 350℉ (175℃). Line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 1 cup smooth peanut butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 large egg. Use a flexible spatula to mix until the dough is well combined and smooth.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop the dough into 24 equal portions, about 1 tablespoon each. Roll each portion into a ball and place them at least 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets, with 12 balls per sheet.
- Flatten Dough: Press each dough ball down with a fork, spreading them to about 2 inches in diameter and approximately 1/4 inch thick, creating a crosshatch pattern on top for classic peanut butter cookie appearance.
- Bake and Rotate: Bake the cookies for 5 minutes initially. Then, rotate the baking sheets between the racks and from front to back to ensure even baking. Continue baking for an additional 5 to 7 minutes or until centers are set, cookies are lightly puffed, and edges are firm.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheets for about 30 minutes. The cookies will firm up as they cool, developing their perfect texture.
Notes
- For natural peanut butter, make sure it’s well-stirred to avoid oily separation.
- Do not overbake to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Use parchment paper or silicone mats for easy removal and cleanup.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- You can add a pinch of salt or vanilla extract for extra flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: peanut butter cookies, easy cookies, 3 ingredient cookies, quick dessert, simple peanut butter treat
