How to Make 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Learn how to make the best 4 ingredient peanut butter cookies with this simple, quick recipe. Just peanut butter, sugar, egg, and baking soda for a perfect, soft treat.

The Simplicity of the Recipe

The beauty of this 4-ingredient peanut butter cookie recipe lies in its simplicity. Many cookie recipes can be overwhelming with a long list of ingredients and steps, but this one is as straightforward as it gets. By cutting down to just four ingredients—peanut butter, sugar, an egg, and baking soda—you get a perfect, chewy cookie without any fuss. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced one looking for a quick snack, this recipe will make your life easier.

What Makes Peanut Butter Cookies Special?

The Role of Peanut Butter in Baking

Peanut butter is the heart and soul of this recipe. It provides a rich, nutty flavor and a soft texture that makes peanut butter cookies stand out from other types of cookies. The natural oils in peanut butter keep the cookies moist and tender, making them a delight with every bite. Peanut butter also pairs perfectly with sugar, creating a harmonious balance of sweetness and savory notes.

For those who like experimenting with baking formulas, check out What is the Formula for Banana Bread? to learn how ingredient ratios affect baking.

Ingredients You Need for 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

1. Peanut Butter – 1 cup

• Use smooth, unsweetened peanut butter for the best results. Natural peanut butter is recommended for a healthier option.

2. Sugar – 1 cup

• Granulated white sugar is ideal for this recipe, but you can also use brown sugar for a richer flavor.

3. Egg – 1 large

• The egg helps bind the ingredients together and gives the cookies structure and texture.

4. Baking Soda – 1/2 teaspoon

• Baking soda helps the cookies rise and spread during baking, ensuring they have the perfect texture.

These four simple ingredients come together to make a delicious, easy-to-make batch of peanut butter cookies!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Making 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies is simple and quick. Follow these easy steps to create delicious cookies that are soft, chewy, and full of peanut butter flavor!

If you love simple, minimal-ingredient baking, you’ll also enjoy this Quick & Delicious 4 Ingredient Banana Bread Recipe. It’s just as easy and packed with flavor!

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the right temperature when your cookies are ready to bake.

2: Mix the Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of sugar, 1 large egg, and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda.
2. Use a spoon or hand mixer to blend the ingredients together until smooth and fully combined. You should have a dough-like consistency.

3: Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands.
2. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

4: Flatten the Cookies

1. Use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball, creating a crisscross pattern on top of the cookie. This will help them spread evenly while baking.

5: Bake the Cookies

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake. The cookies should be golden brown around the edges but still soft in the center.
2. If you prefer softer cookies, remove them a little earlier; for crispier cookies, let them bake for the full time.

6: Cool the Cookies

1. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up.
2. Afterward, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

7: Serve and Enjoy

• Enjoy your homemade 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies! They’re perfect for a quick snack or dessert. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to a week.

These simple steps will give you perfectly chewy, flavorful peanut butter cookies in no time!

Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

Achieving the perfect peanut butter cookie is easy with a few simple tips. Whether you prefer soft, chewy cookies or crispy, golden ones, these tricks will ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

1. Use High-Quality Peanut Butter

• The key to great peanut butter cookies is using good-quality peanut butter. Opt for smooth, unsweetened peanut butter with no added preservatives for the best flavor. Natural peanut butter works well too, but make sure to stir it well before use since the oil tends to separate.

2. Don’t Overmix the Dough

• While mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can cause the cookies to be dense and tough. Once the ingredients are combined into a smooth dough, stop mixing.

3. Adjust the Sweetness

• If you prefer sweeter cookies, add a little more sugar to taste. On the other hand, if you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the sugar slightly. The sweetness can be adjusted depending on whether you want a more traditional cookie or a balanced flavor.

4. Flatten the Dough Balls Evenly

• Flatten the dough balls with a fork to create that signature crisscross pattern. This also helps the cookies spread evenly during baking. Press gently—don’t flatten them too much, as they need to retain some thickness for a soft, chewy texture.

5. Don’t Overbake the Cookies

• For soft, chewy cookies, remove them from the oven just as the edges begin to turn golden. The cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after you take them out. If you want crispier cookies, bake them for an extra minute or two.

6. Allow Cookies to Cool on the Baking Sheet

• Once the cookies are out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This helps them set properly before transferring them to a cooling rack. If you move them too soon, they may break or fall apart.

7. Customize Your Cookies

• Mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt can be added for an extra flavor boost. Add a handful of your favorite mix-ins after combining the dough, and gently fold them in.

8. Use Parchment Paper or a Silicone Mat

• To ensure the cookies don’t stick to the baking sheet and to make cleanup easier, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.

9. Store the Cookies Properly

• To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. If you freeze them, make sure they are individually wrapped or placed in layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

10. Experiment with Flavors

• While the classic 4-ingredient peanut butter cookie recipe is delicious on its own, feel free to experiment with flavors. A touch of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate after baking can add a new twist to your cookies.

By following these tips, you can make peanut butter cookies that are just the right texture and flavor, every time! Whether you like them soft, chewy, or crispy, these simple tricks will help you create your perfect batch.

How to Store Peanut Butter Cookies

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor of your peanut butter cookies. Whether you have leftovers or just want to prepare ahead, here are some tips on how to store your cookies to keep them as delicious as the day they were baked.

1. Store at Room Temperature

• If you plan to eat your cookies within a few days, storing them at room temperature is the easiest option. Place the cookies in an airtight container or a cookie jar to prevent air from making them stale.
• Tip: Add a piece of bread or a moisture pack inside the container to keep the cookies soft and fresh. The bread helps absorb moisture and keeps the cookies from drying out.

2. Separate Layers with Parchment Paper

• If you’re stacking your cookies in a container, place parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together or becoming misshapen. This is especially helpful for soft cookies that can easily stick to one another.

3. Keep in a Cool, Dry Place

• Store your airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight or heat sources. Heat can cause the cookies to lose their freshness and can also make peanut butter-based cookies melt and become greasy.

4. Freezing Peanut Butter Cookies

• If you want to keep your peanut butter cookies for a longer period, freezing them is an excellent option. Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. For extra protection, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in the bag/container to prevent freezer burn.
• Tip: You can freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave or oven for a few seconds to warm them up.

5. Reheating Frozen Cookies

• When reheating frozen peanut butter cookies, you can thaw them at room temperature or heat them directly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes, or until they’re warm and slightly crispy. If you prefer a soft texture, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

6. Storing Cookies with Fillings or Toppings

• If you’ve added fillings like chocolate chips or drizzled frosting on your peanut butter cookies, store them separately from other cookies to prevent the toppings from sticking. You can also place parchment paper between the layers to keep everything intact.

By following these storage tips, your peanut butter cookies will stay fresh, flavorful, and soft for days—or even longer if you freeze them! Keep your cookies stored properly to enjoy them at their best whenever you’re ready for a sweet treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make peanut butter cookies without an egg?

• Yes! If you prefer an egg-free version, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg or chia egg. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken before adding it to the dough.

2. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

• Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter can be used in this recipe for added texture. Just keep in mind that it will result in a more textured cookie. If you like a bit of crunch in your cookies, go ahead and use it!

3. How do I make the cookies softer?

• For softer cookies, underbake them slightly. Remove them from the oven when they are just golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.

4. How can I adjust the sweetness?

• You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, you can reduce the sugar by 1-2 tablespoons or substitute with a sugar alternative like stevia.

5. Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?

• Yes! Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a pinch of sea salt for extra flavor. Add the mix-ins right after combining the dough, and fold them in gently to avoid overmixing.

6. How long will peanut butter cookies stay fresh?

• Stored in an airtight container, peanut butter cookies will stay fresh for up to 1 week at room temperature. If you freeze them, they will last up to 3 months.

Conclusion

4-ingredient peanut butter cookies are a simple yet delicious treat that everyone can enjoy. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make soft, chewy, and flavorful cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them as a quick snack, for a special event, or simply for a sweet craving, these cookies will surely satisfy your taste buds. With easy storage options and the flexibility to adjust sweetness or texture, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your baking repertoire. Enjoy!

And if you’re curious about alternative ingredients, take a look at What Are the Ingredients of Banana Bread? for a breakdown of substitutions and healthier choices.

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