If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate chewy, melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter cookies, you’ve just struck gold! Soft & Thick Peanut Butter Cookies are exactly what their name promises – loaded with classic nutty flavor, with a tender bite that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. Did you know that peanut butter cookies date all the way back to the 1930s, when they first appeared in old-school cookbooks? There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the scent of fresh-baked peanut butter cookies wafting through your home.
What makes these cookies stand out is how effortlessly they come together, without fancy steps or specialty tools. In fact, these cookies are even quicker to whip up than our popular Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars – so if you loved them, you’ll fall for today’s recipe too. Ready to fill your home with cheer and your cookie jar with smiles? Let’s get baking!
What is Soft & Thick Peanut Butter Cookies?
With a name like Soft & Thick Peanut Butter Cookies, you might wonder if it’s all hype, or if these really deliver that dreamy, bakery-style texture. Why not call them “Classic Peanut Butter Cookies”? Good question! The secret’s in their extra-soft, pillowy center and that glorious thickness that just hugs all the peanut butter goodness inside. Honestly, isn’t the way to a man’s (or anyone’s) heart through their stomach – especially if that involves cookies that barely make it off the cooling rack? If you love the sound of soft, thick cookies that don’t skimp on peanut butter, it’s time to preheat your oven and join the fun.
Why You’ll Love This
The very best part about these Soft & Thick Peanut Butter Cookies is their irresistible texture – they’re extra soft, with just the right balance of chewiness. Biting into one is like a cozy hug for your taste buds, with every morsel flooded with warm, roasted peanut butter flavor. Beyond taste, making these at home helps you cut costs compared to store-bought options or bakery treats. You’ll save money, plus you get to control every ingredient – perfect for anyone who loves treating their family to homemade goodies.
These cookies shine thanks to creamy peanut butter, rich brown sugar, and a vanilla-scented dough, and rolling them in extra sugar means a lovely, slightly crunchy exterior. If you love our Chewy Oatmeal Cookies, you’ll find a similar heartwarming vibe here. Ready for chewy, soft-in-the-middle cookies that everyone will love? Grab your apron and let’s make these together!
How to Make
Quick Overview
What makes Soft & Thick Peanut Butter Cookies so outstanding is their simple, no-fuss process. No chilling time required – just mix, shape, roll, and bake. Each bite delivers that classic peanut butter punch with a delightful softness, while the sugar coating adds a fun touch. You only need about 30 minutes from start to finish, making this the perfect bake-anytime treat.
Ingredients
- 1 and 1/3 cups (170g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (100g) light or dark brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar, plus extra 1/2 cup (100g) for rolling
- 1 large egg
- 3/4 cup (about 185g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Step-by-Step
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar until light and creamy. A hand mixer or stand mixer works best, but a sturdy spoon will do the job if needed.
- Add the egg, peanut butter, and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this keeps the cookies extra tender.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll each ball in the extra 1/2 cup sugar to coat lightly.
- Place dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart. If you want, gently press each ball with a fork to create that classic criss-cross pattern – totally optional for a rustic, thick look.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look a touch underdone. They’ll finish cooking as they cool.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to finish cooling (if you can wait that long!).
What to Serve Soft & Thick Peanut Butter Cookies With
These cookies are stars on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a glass of ice-cold milk or a hot mug of coffee. For an indulgent dessert, sandwich some vanilla ice cream between two cookies for a peanut butter cookie ice cream sandwich. They’re also delicious alongside fresh fruit, a dollop of whipped cream, or as a sweet finish to a light lunch with friends. If you’re hosting movie night, serve them with a plate of brownies or some homemade caramel popcorn – it’s a crowd-pleasing spread!
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest dough, but feel free to swap in chunky peanut butter if you love extra crunch and texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough once you add the flour, as this keeps the cookies soft and tender.
- Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet right after baking – they’ll continue to set up without getting dry.
- If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use all granulated sugar, but the cookies may lose a hint of their signature depth.
- For an extra boost, add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking.
- Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t overbake – go by appearance, not time, and remember, the cookies will look a little underdone in the center when ready!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Soft & Thick Peanut Butter Cookies store beautifully! Once completely cool, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, these cookies freeze well – lay them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.
To enjoy from the freezer, let cookies thaw at room temperature, or give them a quick 10-second zap in the microwave for warm, fresh-baked comfort. If you prefer them extra gooey, reheat briefly in a 300°F oven until just warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular creamy peanut butter?
Yes, but the texture may change since natural peanut butter can be oilier. Stir well and expect a slightly flatter, chewier cookie.
What’s the best way to measure flour for this recipe?
For accuracy, use a kitchen scale. If measuring by cups, spoon flour into your cup and level off with a knife – no scooping!
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake in batches. It’s perfect for parties or freezing extras.
Why didn’t my cookies turn out thick and soft?
Check that your dough wasn’t overmixed and that you used the correct ratio of flour. Also, don’t overbake – pull them from the oven when just set.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! The dough can be made a day in advance and chilled overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before scooping and baking.
Conclusion
There you have it – Soft & Thick Peanut Butter Cookies that rival any from a bakery, made right at home with simple ingredients! These cookies are quick, satisfyingly thick, and bursting with classic peanut butter flavor in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sudden cookie craving, this recipe delivers exceptional results every time. Don’t forget to check out our other popular cookie recipes for more sweet inspiration, and be sure to share your cookie creations – we love seeing your bakes! Happy baking!