Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
These Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that brings back memories of childhood. With their crispy, golden brown exterior and soft center, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to lunchtime snacks. The rich peanut butter flavor combined with the sweetness of sugars makes these cookies irresistible. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or packed in a lunchbox, they’re sure to please everyone.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe approachable for bakers of all levels.
- Classic Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sugars creates a nostalgic taste reminiscent of grandma’s baking.
- Perfect Texture: Enjoy the contrast of a crisp outside with a soft, chewy inside.
- Versatile Snack: Ideal for school lunches, parties, or just an afternoon treat with coffee or milk.
- Freezable Dough: Make a large batch and freeze some dough for fresh cookies anytime!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into baking, make sure you have the right tools on hand. This will help streamline your process and ensure your cookies turn out perfectly.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium-sized bowl
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone liners
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and effort in mixing ingredients thoroughly.
- Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
- Parchment paper or silicone liners: These prevent cookies from sticking to the baking sheets and ensure even baking.
Ingredients
These old-fashioned peanut butter cookies have a crispy, golden brown outside and a soft center, just like the ones that grandma used to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 ¼ cups creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup salted butter (room temperature)
– 1 ¼ cups light brown sugar (packed)
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs (room temperature)
– 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
How to Make Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners to prepare for baking.
Step 2: Mix Peanut Butter and Butter
In a large bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to beat together the creamy peanut butter and salted butter. Continue mixing until the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Add Sugars
Add the light brown sugar and granulated sugar. Beat until the mixture becomes fluffy and well-combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Mix in the eggs, one at a time. After each egg is added, ensure it is fully incorporated before moving on. Then add the vanilla extract and mix until blended.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Stir until just combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Step 6: Shape Cookies
Scoop out dough into balls about 2 tablespoons each. Place them approximately three inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Use a fork to gently press down on each ball, creating a cross-hatch pattern on top.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-13 minutes or until they turn golden brown and lose their glossy appearance on top. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your deliciously nostalgic old-fashioned peanut butter cookies!
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
These old-fashioned peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a casual snack or a festive gathering, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing that never gets old. The creaminess of milk complements the rich peanut butter flavor perfectly.
As a Dessert Sandwich
- Spread some chocolate or vanilla frosting between two cookies for a delicious dessert sandwich that’s sure to impress.
Crumbled Over Ice Cream
- Crush the cookies and sprinkle them over your favorite ice cream. This adds an exciting crunch and flavor contrast.
Paired with Fresh Fruit
- Serve these cookies alongside fresh fruit like sliced apples or bananas for a balanced snack that satisfies both sweet and healthy cravings.
At a Picnic or BBQ
- Pack these cookies as part of your picnic or BBQ spread. Their sturdy texture makes them easy to transport, and they’re always a crowd favorite.
How to Perfect Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
To ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring the butter and eggs to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
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Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading during baking.
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Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. They should look golden brown but still soft in the center when you pull them out.
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Store Properly: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
Old-fashioned peanut butter cookies pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent options:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Blend chocolate ice cream with milk for a rich shake that complements the nutty flavors of the cookies.
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Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that’s both healthy and delicious.
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Classic Coleslaw: The tangy crunch of coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of peanut butter cookies.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can balance the sweetness and offer savory bites between cookie indulgences.
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Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide an extra crunch while staying on theme with peanut flavors.
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Peanut Butter Dip: Create a creamy dip using peanut butter, yogurt, and honey for dunking apple slices or pretzels alongside your cookies.
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Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These add a salty-sweet crunch that pairs beautifully with old-fashioned peanut butter treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making old-fashioned peanut butter cookies can be a joy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring your butter and eggs to room temperature for a smoother dough.
- Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much after adding flour can make your cookies tough. Mix until just combined for a softer texture.
- Not Measuring Accurately: Using too much flour or sugar can ruin the balance of your cookies. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Skipping the Chilling Step: If you chill your dough, it helps prevent spreading. Allow your dough to rest in the fridge if possible before baking.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different; not all ovens heat evenly. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Place parchment paper between layers to keep them from sticking together.
Freezing Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
- Freeze cookies individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds; be careful not to overheat as this can make them tough.
- Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, covering with a lid to retain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making old-fashioned peanut butter cookies, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:
Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy. This will give your cookies added texture.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
Look for a golden-brown color on the edges and a slightly soft center. They will firm up as they cool.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips or nuts can enhance the flavor and texture of your old-fashioned peanut butter cookies.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle.
How long do these cookies last?
When stored properly, old-fashioned peanut butter cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator or three months in the freezer.
Final Thoughts
Old-fashioned peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat that brings back memories of home and comfort. Their crispy exterior and soft center make them irresistible. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor! Give this recipe a try today and enjoy these deliciously nostalgic cookies!
Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the nostalgia of Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies, where every bite brings back cherished childhood memories. With a perfectly crispy exterior and a soft, chewy center, these cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. The rich flavor of creamy peanut butter combined with just the right amount of sweetness makes them irresistible. Whether fresh out of the oven or enjoyed later with a glass of milk, these cookies are sure to please!
Ingredients
- 1 ¼ cups creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup salted butter (room temperature)
- 1 ¼ cups light brown sugar (packed)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat together creamy peanut butter and salted butter until smooth.
- Add light brown sugar and granulated sugar; mix until fluffy.
- Incorporate eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda; gradually add to wet ingredients until just combined.
- Scoop dough into balls about 2 tablespoons each and place on baking sheets, three inches apart. Press gently with a fork to create a cross-hatch pattern.
- Bake for 12-13 minutes or until golden brown; cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 110mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
