Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies – Soft, Rich & Irresistible
These Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies are a classic favorite—crispy on the edges, soft and chewy in the center, and packed with nutty flavor. Perfect for cookie lovers, bake sales, or an easy homemade dessert. Just like grandma used to make, but even better!
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Cookie scoop
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or mini peanut butter cups
Instructions
- Cream Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Egg & Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Chill Dough: Cover and refrigerate dough for at least 30 minutes.
- coop & Shape: Using a cookie scoop, portion dough onto lined baking sheets, leaving 2 inches between each cookie. Optionally press lightly with a fork for a crisscross pattern.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 9–11 minutes, until edges are golden and centers look slightly underbaked.
- Cool: Let cookies rest on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Extra Chewy Tip: Use more brown sugar than white sugar and slightly underbake for maximum softness.
- Make Ahead: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Place a slice of bread in the container to maintain softness.
- Variations: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or swirl in jam for peanut butter & jelly cookies.