If you have a soft spot for cookies that combine rich, nutty flavor with a satisfyingly crisp bite, you are going to fall head over heels for this Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. Each cookie offers a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the deep, buttery peanut butter taste, creating a classic treat that’s as comforting as it is addictive. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon snack or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these cookies hit all the right notes with their crisp edges and just the right amount of sweetness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of these Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies starts with a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the creamy peanut butter that infuses every bite with flavor, to the combination of leaveners that help create the perfect texture, every item here ensures your cookies turn out irresistibly crisp and delicious.
- Unsalted butter (1 cup or 226g): Softened to add richness and help create a tender crumb with crisp edges.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup or 200g): Provides sweetness and helps the cookies crisp up while baking.
- Light brown sugar (3/4 cup packed or 150g): Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor for depth.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients and lend structure to the dough.
- Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
- Creamy peanut butter (1 cup or 250g): The star ingredient delivers that unmistakable nutty taste and smooth texture.
- All-purpose flour (3 cups or 375g): The base that holds everything together and provides body.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps cookies rise slightly and creates the ideal crispness.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Supports lift and texture, balancing the density of peanut butter.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
How to Make Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars
Start by softening your butter so it blends easily. Then beat it together with both granulated and light brown sugar until you get a smooth, fluffy mixture. This step is key because it incorporates air, helping your cookies develop a nice texture and that signature crisp edge.
Step 2: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Peanut Butter
Next, add the eggs one at a time, blending each fully before adding the next. Stir in the pure vanilla extract and creamy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. This combination ensures your cookies will be rich in flavor and beautifully moist inside.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This preparation makes sure the leavening agents are evenly distributed for consistent texture throughout your batch.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which could make your cookies tough instead of delightfully crisp.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Pop your cookie dough into the refrigerator for at least three hours. This chilling period is crucial because it firms up the dough, which helps the cookies hold their shape and develop that coveted crispness when baked.
Step 6: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even browning—a simple step that makes cleanup effortless.
Step 7: Roll, Sugar, and Shape the Cookies
Shape the dough into balls and generously roll them in granulated sugar. This extra sugar coating contributes to a lovely crunchy exterior. Then, place these sugared dough balls on your baking sheets and press a classic criss-cross pattern with a fork. This iconic design not only looks great but helps flatten the cookies for even baking.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Bake your cookies for 12 to 13 minutes until the edges turn a delicate golden brown. Once out of the oven, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is just as important as baking since it sets the crisp texture that makes this Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe such a winner.
How to Serve Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While the cookies are delicious on their own, you can elevate their presentation by sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on top just before baking. This simple garnish amplifies the peanut butter flavor and adds a gourmet touch that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a classic cold glass of milk for a nostalgic treat or serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Coffee or chai tea also wonderfully complement the nutty tones, making every bite an experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, use these cookies as a base for mini sandwich cookies filled with chocolate ganache or peanut butter cream. Alternatively, stack them with layers of fresh fruit and whipped cream to create an easy and impressive dessert tower.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your baked cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crisp and flavorful for up to a week, making them perfect for sharing throughout the week or saving for unexpected guests.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these delicious Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe cookies later, freeze the dough balls before baking. Simply wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to three months. When ready, bake straight from frozen and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To refresh the crispness, gently warm the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soft and chewy rather than satisfyingly crisp.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy for this recipe?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add delightful bits of peanut throughout your cookies, giving an added texture dimension while still keeping that signature peanut flavor crisped to perfection.
What makes these cookies crisp instead of soft?
The combination of baking soda and baking powder along with chilling the dough helps form crisp edges while the granulated sugar coating caramelizes during baking, creating the perfect crunchy exterior.
Can I substitute butter with margarine or oil?
Butter is best for flavor and texture in this Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. Margarine or oil may result in softer cookies without the same rich taste or crispy edges.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure to chill your cookie dough thoroughly before baking. This solidifies the fats and prevents excessive spreading, which would result in thinner, less crispy cookies.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to this recipe?
Yes! Adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts can enhance texture and taste. Just fold them into the dough before chilling for a fun twist on these classic cookies.
Final Thoughts
Baking this Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is like creating a little batch of joy that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas and delight when shared. The balance of crisp edges and rich peanut butter flavor makes these cookies a staple you’ll want to return to again and again. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be reaching for this recipe anytime a cookie craving hits.
Print
Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 28 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Crisp Peanut Butter Cookies are delightfully crunchy on the edges while maintaining a slightly chewy center. Made from creamy peanut butter, butter, and a perfect blend of sugars and flour, these classic cookies are chilled before baking to lock in flavor and texture. Perfect for peanut butter lovers craving a simple yet irresistible treat that pairs wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (226g), softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar (150g)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (250g)
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (375g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cream Ingredients: Cream together softened butter and both sugars until smooth and fluffy using a mixer. Then add eggs, vanilla extract, and creamy peanut butter; mix until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until evenly distributed.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just incorporated. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender.
- Chill Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. This helps develop flavor and makes the dough easier to handle.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for even baking.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the chilled dough into approximately 1-inch balls. Coat each ball in granulated sugar for a sweet, crisp outer layer. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets. Use a fork to press down each ball twice in a criss-cross pattern to flatten slightly.
- Bake: Bake cookies in the preheated oven for 12–13 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden but the centers still look soft. This will ensure crisp edges with a chewy middle.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing.
Notes
- Chilling the dough is essential for flavor development and to prevent excessive spreading during baking.
- For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the peanut butter flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- These cookies freeze well; freeze baked cookies or dough balls for future baking.
- Use creamy peanut butter for smoother dough; chunky peanut butter can alter texture.
