Make delicious 4 ingredient peanut butter cookies with flour ! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick treat, offering a simple solution for baking that satisfies your sweet tooth.
Introduction to 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies with Flour
Peanut butter cookies are a classic dessert beloved by many. With just four simple ingredients, you can whip up these delicious 4 ingredient peanut butter cookies in no time. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced chef, this easy recipe is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies with flour, and we’ll provide you with tips and tricks to perfect them.
Why Choose Simple Recipes?
Simple recipes are often the best. When you only need a few ingredients, it reduces the chance for errors and ensures that anyone can make the recipe, regardless of experience. These cookies are great because you can make them on a whim without needing to run out for any complicated ingredients.
Key Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cookies
To make these delicious 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of peanut butter: Choose creamy or chunky, depending on your preference. This is the main flavor base of the cookies.
- 1 cup of sugar: White granulated sugar will provide the necessary sweetness and contribute to the crispness of the cookies.
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour: This is used to give structure to the cookies and help bind the ingredients together.
- 1 large egg: The egg helps to hold the dough together and gives the cookies their texture and richness.
- Baking powder. This is the leavening agent to give the cookie it’s chewy centers.
- Vanilla extract. Almond extract can be used instead of vanilla extract.
These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious treat that’s quick and easy to make!
Making these 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies is quick and simple. Follow these easy steps for perfect cookies every time:
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking. - Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to make cleanup easier. - Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of peanut butter
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 cup of flour
- 1 large egg
Stir the ingredients together until fully combined, forming a dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour to achieve the right consistency.
If you’re looking for a no-egg version, try this 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies No Egg in 15 Minutes recipe.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies
To make sure your peanut butter cookies turn out just right every time, follow these helpful tips:
How to Ensure Chewy Cookies
For soft, chewy cookies, be careful not to overbake them. Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are golden brown but the center is still slightly soft. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This will help maintain their chewy texture.
How to Achieve a Crispy Cookie
If you prefer crispy cookies, flatten the dough balls more before baking. You can also bake the cookies for an extra minute or two, until the edges are deeply golden brown. This will give them a crispier texture while still maintaining a nice bite.
Adjusting for Dough Consistency
If the dough feels too sticky to handle, don’t hesitate to add a little more flour. Start by adding a tablespoon at a time until the dough reaches a smooth, non-sticky consistency. If the dough feels too dry or crumbly, add a small amount of peanut butter to bring it together.
Keep an Eye on the Oven
Baking times can vary, so always keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. If you’re unsure, check them after 8 minutes. You can always bake them a bit longer if needed, but be cautious not to overbake.
For Even Results
To ensure uniform cookies, try to make the dough balls the same size. Using a cookie scoop or spoon can help you measure out equal portions of dough. This way, all cookies will bake at the same rate, ensuring consistency in texture and taste.
By following these tips, you’ll get the perfect batch of peanut butter cookies every time!
Want more protein? Pair these cookies with Delicious Banana Protein Pancakes for a nutritious breakfast!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes, even the simplest recipes can present challenges. Here are a few common issues you might encounter when making peanut butter cookies, and how to fix them:
Why Are My Cookies Crumbly?
Crumbly cookies often happen if there’s too much flour in the dough or if it’s overmixed. To fix this, be sure to measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Avoid overmixing the dough—stir just until the ingredients are combined. If the dough feels too dry, try adding a little more peanut butter to bring it together.
How to Fix Overbaking Problems
If your cookies turn out too hard or overbaked, it’s likely because they stayed in the oven too long. The next time, check them a minute or two earlier than the suggested time. Peanut butter cookies should have a slightly soft center when removed from the oven and will continue to firm up as they cool. If the cookies are already overbaked, try making smaller batches and keeping a closer eye on them in the future.
My Cookies Spread Too Much
If your cookies spread too much while baking, this may be due to overly soft dough or too much sugar. Try refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help it firm up. You can also slightly reduce the amount of sugar or flour to help control how much they spread.
Why Do My Cookies Look Too Flat?
Flat cookies are often the result of not using enough flour or not enough baking time. If you find that your cookies are too thin, try adding a bit more flour to the dough and make sure you don’t flatten the dough balls too much before baking. A thicker dough ball will result in a thicker cookie.
My Cookies Are Too Soft to Handle
If the dough is too soft and difficult to shape, it’s possible the peanut butter used had too much oil, or the dough wasn’t mixed enough. You can chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it into balls, which should make it easier to handle.
By troubleshooting these common issues, you can adjust your process and ensure perfect peanut butter cookies every time!
Variations and Substitutes
While the classic 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies are delicious on their own, there are plenty of ways to get creative with this recipe. Here are some variations and substitutes to customize the cookies to your taste or dietary needs:
Peanut Butter Cookie Variations
- Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough before mixing. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is always a winning choice!
- Peanut Butter and Oatmeal Cookies: For a heartier texture, mix in ½ cup of rolled oats. This adds a chewy element and increases the nutritional value.
- Peanut Butter and Jam Thumbprint Cookies: After flattening the dough balls, create a small indentation in the center with your thumb. Fill the indentation with your favorite jam or jelly before baking.
- Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies: If you prefer a crunchier texture, swap out the creamy peanut butter for chunky peanut butter, or add chopped peanuts to the dough.
- Peanut Butter Cookies with a Twist: Spice up your cookies by adding a pinch of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or even a bit of sea salt on top for an extra flavor kick.
Ingredient Substitutes for Dietary Needs
- Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies: To make these cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour, coconut flour, or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Dairy-Free Peanut Butter Cookies: If you’re avoiding dairy, choose a dairy-free peanut butter (some natural peanut butters don’t contain any added oils or dairy) and use a dairy-free egg replacement like a flax egg or chia egg.
- Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cookies: For a sugar-free version, replace the sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture of the cookies, but they’ll still be delicious.
- Egg-Free Peanut Butter Cookies: If you need to make egg-free cookies, simply replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water), or use ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce as a binder.
These variations and substitutes allow you to personalize the recipe to suit different tastes and dietary preferences while still maintaining the classic peanut butter flavor everyone loves!
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of your peanut butter cookies can help you make informed choices, especially if you’re mindful of your calorie intake or dietary needs. Here’s a general nutritional overview for the classic 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies:
Caloric Breakdown of 4 Ingredient Cookies
Each cookie contains approximately:
- Calories: 150-170 calories per cookie (based on a serving size of one cookie).
- Fat: 10-12 grams of fat, most of which come from the peanut butter.
- Protein: 4-5 grams of protein, due to the peanut butter and egg.
- Carbohydrates: 15-17 grams of carbs, including sugar and flour.
- Fiber: 1-2 grams of dietary fiber, depending on the type of peanut butter used.
- Sugar: 12-14 grams of sugar per cookie.
Healthier Modifications
To make the cookies a bit healthier, you can swap ingredients or adjust portions:
- Reduce Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like stevia, coconut sugar, or erythritol to cut down on the sugar content while still maintaining sweetness.
- Use Natural Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter with no added sugar or hydrogenated oils to reduce unhealthy fats and sugar intake.
- Whole Wheat Flour: For a boost of fiber, replace the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will also add a nuttier flavor to the cookies.
- Add Protein: You can increase the protein content by adding a tablespoon of protein powder to the dough. This is a great option for those looking to make a more filling snack.
- Reduce Portion Size: If you want to lower the calorie count, simply make smaller cookies. This allows you to enjoy the treat without consuming as many calories.
While these cookies are delicious and relatively simple, making some small adjustments can help cater to your health goals without sacrificing flavor!
Can I Make These Cookies Without Eggs?
Yes, you can make these cookies without eggs. Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) or another egg substitute such as chia seeds or applesauce.
How Can I Make Peanut Butter Cookies Gluten-Free?
To make the cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, or coconut flour. Be sure to check the labels of your peanut butter to ensure it doesn’t contain any hidden gluten.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter can be used in this recipe. However, keep in mind that natural peanut butter tends to be a bit runnier than processed varieties, so you may need to adjust the flour slightly to achieve the right dough consistency.
How Long Do Peanut Butter Cookies Last?
These cookies can last up to a week if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can I Freeze Peanut Butter Cookie Dough?
Yes, you can freeze the dough! Roll it into balls and place them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough balls directly on a baking sheet and bake for a minute or two longer than the usual baking time.
Conclusion
These 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies are a quick, easy, and delicious treat that can be made with simple ingredients found in most kitchens. Whether you’re looking for a chewy or crispy cookie, or you want to customize the recipe to fit your dietary needs, this flexible and simple recipe is perfect for any occasion. With just a few steps and minimal ingredients, you can enjoy a homemade batch of peanut butter cookies in no time. Happy baking!
Want more variations? Check out How to Make 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies for additional tips and tricks!
Print
Simple 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12–15 cookies 1x
Description
These 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies are quick, simple, and utterly delicious. With minimal ingredients and a short prep time, you can enjoy fresh, homemade cookies in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- 1 cup sugar (granulated)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, flour, and egg. Stir until a dough forms.
- Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten Dough: Press each dough ball down with a fork, creating a criss-cross pattern.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For chewy cookies, don’t overbake! The cookies will firm up as they cool.
- For crispier cookies, bake them a minute or two longer.
- You can customize these cookies by adding chocolate chips, oats, or chopped peanuts.
- For a healthier version, try using natural peanut butter and reducing the sugar.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 170 kcal
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g