Who doesn’t love cookies? Especially when they’re easy to make and packed with flavor! If you’re a peanut butter fan, these 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies will quickly become your favorite treat. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of delicious cookies that are soft, chewy, and perfect for any occasion.
What makes these cookies so special? They’re quick, require almost no baking experience, and taste like they came from a bakery. Plus, you won’t need any fancy equipment or a long list of ingredients—just four items from your kitchen.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a beginner baker, or simply someone craving something sweet, this recipe will be your go-to. Let’s dive in and learn how to make these easy cookies!
Table of Contents
The Ingredients
One of the best things about these 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies is that they only require a few simple ingredients—most of which you probably already have at home! Here’s exactly what you’ll need:
1. 1 Cup of Peanut Butter (250g)
This is the star ingredient! Creamy peanut butter works best because it makes soft and chewy cookies. If you prefer more texture, go ahead and use chunky peanut butter. Just make sure to avoid natural peanut butter that separates, as it can make the dough too runny.
2. 1 Cup of Granulated Sugar (200g)
Sugar gives the cookies their sweetness and that perfect golden brown color. If you prefer softer cookies with a hint of caramel flavor, you can substitute with brown sugar.
3. 1 Large Egg
The egg is what binds the ingredients together and gives the cookies their structure. For the best results, use a large egg at room temperature.
4. 1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Optional)
While this is technically optional, a teaspoon of vanilla adds a warm and rich flavor that takes these cookies to the next level. It’s worth adding if you have it!
Why These Ingredients Work Together
- Peanut Butter creates the base of the cookie dough.
- Sugar sweetens and gives the cookies their delightful texture.
- Egg holds everything together and ensures the cookies bake properly.
- Vanilla Extract adds a burst of flavor, making the cookies taste like they’re fresh from a bakery.
What if I Don’t Have All These Ingredients?
- No vanilla? Don’t worry—your cookies will still be delicious without it.
- Want a healthier twist? Replace the sugar with coconut sugar or your favorite sugar substitute.
- Have an egg allergy? Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) or ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.
How to Make 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Making these cookies is so easy that even kids can help! Follow these simple steps to get soft, chewy, and delicious cookies in no time:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready to bake your cookies to perfection. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine:
- 1 cup of peanut butter (250g)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar (200g)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Use a spoon or a whisk to mix everything together until the ingredients form a smooth and thick dough. This should only take about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Form the Cookie Dough Balls
Scoop out the dough using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop. Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter (or the size of a walnut). Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Step 4: Flatten the Cookies
To give these cookies their classic peanut butter look, use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball, creating a crisscross pattern. Don’t press too hard—just enough to flatten the cookies slightly.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10–12 minutes. The cookies should look set but still soft in the center.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
That’s it! Your cookies are ready to enjoy. They’ll be soft, chewy, and full of peanut butter goodness.
Tips for Perfect 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
1. Use the Right Peanut Butter
Stick with regular creamy or chunky peanut butter. Avoid natural peanut butter with separated oil, as it can make the dough too soft and the cookies won’t hold their shape. If you only have natural peanut butter, mix it thoroughly before measuring to reincorporate the oils.
2. Measure Ingredients Accurately
Use a measuring cup for dry ingredients like sugar, and level it off with a knife for precise measurements. When measuring peanut butter, lightly grease the measuring cup to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
3. Don’t Overmix the Dough
Once the ingredients come together, stop mixing. Overmixing can make the cookies dense and heavy.
4. Add Extras if Desired
Though these cookies are perfect as-is, you can mix in extras like chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for a fun twist.
5. Use the Crisscross Pattern
Pressing the cookies with a fork not only flattens them but also helps them bake evenly. Plus, it gives them the classic peanut butter cookie look!
6. Watch the Baking Time
Peanut butter cookies can go from perfect to overbaked very quickly. Take them out of the oven when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. They’ll firm up as they cool.
7. Allow Cooling Before Handling
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. They’re delicate when hot and might break apart if handled too soon.
8. Store Properly
Once completely cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Want to keep them longer? Freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying!
9. Make Them Your Own
For a healthier version, use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.
You might also like :
Peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat, loved for their simplicity and rich flavor. With just four ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies in no time, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute desserts. If you’re craving something a little different, why not explore other delightful baked goods like the gooey decadence of What is in a Killer Brownie? or learn more about The Three Types of Brownies to find your favorite variation? For peanut butter lovers, Nutter Butter Cookies offer a crunchy twist, while the zesty flavor of Lemon Brownies brings a refreshing spin to your dessert options. These treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth and add variety to your baking repertoire.
FAQ About 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
What are the basic ingredients for peanut butter cookies?
The basic ingredients are 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 large egg. Adding 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract is optional but enhances the flavor.
Why do they put fork marks in peanut butter cookies?
Fork marks help flatten the dense dough for even baking and are a traditional signature of peanut butter cookies.
What is the secret ingredient to keep cookies soft?
The secret is moisture! Use brown sugar, avoid overbaking, and store the cookies in an airtight container. Adding a slice of bread to the container keeps them soft longer.
Why do my peanut butter cookies keep falling apart?
Cookies fall apart if the dough is too dry, they’re underbaked, or handled while hot. Let them cool for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack.
These tips will help you troubleshoot and bake the perfect cookies every time!
Conclusion
Making these 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies is as easy as it gets! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a batch of cookies that are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re baking for a party, a family treat, or a quick snack, this recipe is perfect for all occasions.
The best part? These cookies are versatile, gluten-free, and beginner-friendly—ideal for anyone who loves the simplicity of homemade treats. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delicious aroma of fresh-baked peanut butter cookies in no time!
Start baking today and share the joy of these classic cookies with your loved ones! 🍪
4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup 250g peanut butter (creamy for soft cookies, chunky for added texture)
- 1 cup 200g granulated sugar (or brown sugar for a caramel-like flavor)
- 1 large egg room temperature for best results
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional but enhances the flavor
Instructions
- 1️⃣ Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2️⃣ Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined.
- 3️⃣ Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- 4️⃣ Create the Classic Crisscross Pattern: Use a fork to press down lightly on each cookie, creating a crisscross pattern.
- 5️⃣ Bake: Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still slightly soft.
- 6️⃣ Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For a healthier version: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute.
Make them dairy-free & gluten-free: These cookies are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free!