Introduction
Nothing beats the simplicity of homemade peanut butter cookies, especially when they require just three ingredients. Whether you’re craving a quick sweet treat, need a last-minute dessert, or want a fuss-free baking experience, these Classic 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are the answer. With no flour, no butter, and no complicated steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
These cookies are naturally gluten-free, incredibly soft and chewy, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor. Plus, they’re kid-friendly and a great option for making with little helpers in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this effortless recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Only 3 Ingredients – No need for a long shopping list or fancy ingredients.
- Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free – Perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
- Quick & Easy – No chilling required; you’ll have cookies in just 20 minutes.
- Soft, Chewy & Packed with Peanut Butter Flavor – The ultimate comfort cookie.
- Minimal Cleanup – Only one bowl and a baking sheet needed.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable for keto, low-sugar, or chocolate lovers.
Ingredients 🥜🍯🍪
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar for a chewier texture)
- 1 large egg
(That’s it! No flour, no baking powder, no butter!)
Necessary Tools 🔪🍴
- Mixing bowl – To combine all ingredients.
- Fork – For mixing and making the signature crisscross pattern.
- Baking sheet – To bake the cookies.
- Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – For evenly shaped cookies.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions 🔄
- Sugar-Free Version: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter.
- Extra Chewy Cookies: Use brown sugar instead of white sugar.
- Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add ½ cup chocolate chips.
- Crunchy Boost: Mix in chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels.
Step-by-Step Instructions 📖
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dough
In a bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Stir until smooth and well incorporated. The dough will be thick and slightly sticky.
3. Scoop & Shape
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
4. Crisscross Pattern
Using a fork, gently press down each cookie, making a crisscross pattern on top. This helps flatten them and creates the classic peanut butter cookie look.
5. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are set. They may look soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
6. Cool & Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store for later!
Pro Tips for Success ✅
- Use natural peanut butter for a stronger peanut taste, but stir well before using.
- Don’t overbake! These cookies firm up as they cool.
- If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate for 10 minutes before shaping.
- For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop.
Serving Suggestions 🍽️
- With a Glass of Milk – A nostalgic pairing for the ultimate treat.
- Drizzled with Chocolate – Melted dark chocolate makes them extra indulgent.
- Sandwich Cookies – Fill two cookies with Nutella or peanut butter frosting.
- Crumble Over Ice Cream – Use as a topping for added crunch.
Storing and Reheating 🍪
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 5-10 seconds for a fresh-baked feel.
Nutritional Information 📊
- Calories: ~120 per cookie
- Carbohydrates: ~10g
- Protein: ~4g
- Fats: ~7g
(Exact values depend on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
FAQs ❓
1. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Yes! Almond butter or cashew butter works, but the texture may vary slightly.
2. Why are my cookies crumbly?
Natural peanut butter can make cookies crumbly; add 1 tsp of honey or maple syrup for better binding.
3. Can I make these vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water).
4. Do I need to chill the dough?
No chilling required! However, refrigerating for 10 minutes can help if your dough is sticky.
5. What type of peanut butter is best?
Both natural and processed peanut butter work. Natural peanut butter gives a more intense flavor, while processed peanut butter provides a smoother texture.
Conclusion 🎉
These Classic 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies prove that simple can be delicious! Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a gathering, this quick and easy recipe will become a favorite. Try different variations and enjoy these soft, chewy, and nutty delights anytime!
