If you have a sweet tooth but want something quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, this 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. It requires only simple ingredients you probably have on hand, yet produces irresistibly chewy and perfectly nutty cookies that melt in your mouth. Whether you’re baking with kids, whipping up a last-minute dessert, or just craving a nostalgic treat, these cookies hit the spot every single time with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich peanut butter flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of sweetness, texture, and peanut butter goodness that makes these cookies so special.
- Granulated sugar: Adds the essential sweetness and helps create that crave-worthy chewy texture.
- Creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, providing a rich, nutty flavor and moistness that truly defines these cookies.
- Large egg (at room temperature): Binds the ingredients together and gives the cookies a soft, tender crumb.
How to Make 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and help your cookies bake evenly. This prep step ensures your cookies come out perfect every time.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, stir together the granulated sugar, creamy peanut butter, and the room temperature egg. Mix until the dough is smooth and fully combined, creating a uniform batter that’s easy to scoop. This simple blend of ingredients is what makes these cookies so effortless to whip up.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Scoop about one tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball with your hands. Place each dough ball on the lined baking sheet, making sure to space them roughly 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading during baking. This shaping step is quick and fun, especially if you love cookie dough.
Step 4: Create the Classic Crisscross Pattern
Gently press down on each dough ball with the back of a fork, making a crisscross pattern. Not only does this add a charming touch, but it also helps flatten the cookies slightly so they bake evenly. This simple pattern is a classic hallmark of peanut butter cookies.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes. You want the edges to be set and the tops to show slight cracks. This baking time delivers that chewy yet firm texture we all love in peanut butter cookies.
Step 6: Cool Your Cookies
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling them fully allows the perfect bite and texture to develop, so be patient—it’s worth the wait!
How to Serve 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right after pressing the dough balls can take your peanut butter cookies to the next level. It beautifully balances the sweetness with a subtle salty kick. Alternatively, a light drizzle of melted chocolate can add a touch of decadence without overpowering the peanut butter flavor.
Side Dishes
These tasty cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, a cup of hot coffee, or even a cozy mug of tea. They also make an excellent sweet accomplice to a scoop of vanilla ice cream, turning a simple dessert into an indulgent treat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party idea, stack several 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe cookies with layers of peanut butter frosting or Nutella in between to create cookie sandwiches. Wrapping individual cookies in colorful parchment and tying with twine makes them delightful homemade gifts that friends and family will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and chewy for up to 5 days. Keeping them sealed properly ensures the peanut butter flavor remains vibrant and the texture stays just right.
Freezing
You can freeze baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container once solid. Frozen cookies last up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy your 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
To bring frozen or stored cookies back to life, warm them gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This quick heat-up refreshes their chewy texture and fresh-from-the-oven aroma.
FAQs
Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds a delightful crunch to your 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe. Just keep in mind the texture will be a bit different, with a pleasant nuttiness from the peanut bits.
Is it possible to make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to make this recipe vegan-friendly. The cookies will remain delicious and maintain a similar texture.
Can I substitute the granulated sugar with brown sugar?
Brown sugar will work, providing a deeper, caramel-like flavor and slightly chewier texture. It’s a lovely variation if you’re looking to add a bit more richness to the cookies.
Do these cookies spread a lot during baking?
They spread just a little, which is why spacing them about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet is important. The peanut butter helps keep the shape intact while creating a tender bite.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?
Definitely! If you want to jazz up your 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe, sprinkle in some chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a handful of mini M&Ms before scooping the dough. It’s a fun way to customize your cookies without complicating the recipe.
Final Thoughts
This 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is a true testament to how a handful of simple pantry staples can come together to create something unexpectedly delightful. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a quick snack, or just because, these cookies never disappoint. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s quick, fuss-free, and packed with irresistible peanut butter flavor that will have you coming back for more!
Print
3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are a quick and simple treat perfect for any occasion. Combining just granulated sugar, creamy peanut butter, and an egg, they create a soft, chewy cookie with a classic peanut butter flavor. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, these cookies are ideal for beginner bakers or anyone looking for a fast homemade dessert.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg (at room temperature)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the sugar, creamy peanut butter, and egg. Stir together until the mixture is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Form cookie balls: Use about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie, rolling each portion into a ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet spaced about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Create crisscross pattern: Gently press down on each dough ball with the back of a fork, making a classic crisscross design to give the cookies their signature look.
- Bake cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops show slight cracks, indicating they are done.
- Cool on baking sheet: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, which helps them firm up slightly.
- Cool completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool fully before serving to achieve the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use peanut butter without added salt or sugar.
- Make sure the egg is at room temperature to help bind the ingredients evenly.
- You can add a pinch of salt if using unsalted peanut butter for balanced flavor.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
