To make old-fashioned peanut butter cookies, mix peanut butter, sugar, and an egg. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Old-fashioned peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat loved by many. Their simplicity and delicious flavor make them a favorite in households worldwide. With just a few ingredients, you can create these delightful cookies that bring a sense of nostalgia.
The rich, nutty taste paired with a soft, chewy texture makes them irresistible. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual afternoon snacks. You don’t need advanced baking skills to whip up a batch, making them an excellent choice for beginners. Follow this straightforward recipe, and you’ll have a plate of mouth-watering cookies ready in no time.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect old fashioned peanut butter cookies starts with the right ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that nostalgic taste and texture we all love. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of both essential ingredients and optional add-ins to elevate your cookie game.
Essential Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Peanut Butter | 1 cup |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 1/2 cups |
| Baking Soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking Powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup (softened) |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon |
Optional Add-ins
- Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup for a chocolatey twist.
- Chopped Nuts: Include 1/2 cup for extra crunch.
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch on top for a salty-sweet contrast.
- Cinnamon: Add 1/2 teaspoon for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Shredded Coconut: Mix in 1/2 cup for a tropical touch.
These optional add-ins can make your cookies even more delicious. Feel free to experiment with your own favorite ingredients!
Tools Needed
To make the best old-fashioned peanut butter cookies, you need the right tools. These tools help you achieve perfect texture and flavor. Below are the essential tools you need.
Baking Tools
Quality baking tools make a big difference. Here’s what you need:
- Baking Sheet: Use a non-stick or lined baking sheet.
- Parchment Paper: Keeps cookies from sticking.
- Cooling Rack: Cools cookies evenly.
- Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements are key.
- Measuring Spoons: For precise small quantities.
Mixing Equipment
Mixing equipment ensures your ingredients blend well. Here’s what you need:
- Mixing Bowls: Use various sizes for different tasks.
- Electric Mixer: Speeds up the mixing process.
- Spatula: Scrapes the bowl clean.
- Wooden Spoon: Ideal for hand mixing.
- Whisk: Helps to blend dry ingredients.
Preparation Steps
Learn how to make old-fashioned peanut butter cookies. Follow these easy steps to get started. Each step ensures your cookies turn out perfect.
Measuring Ingredients
Accurate measuring is key. Use a kitchen scale for precision. Here’s what you need:
- 1 cup of peanut butter
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp of baking soda
Measure each ingredient carefully. This ensures your cookies have the right texture.
Mixing Dough
Once you have all ingredients, start mixing. Use a large bowl for this step:
- Combine peanut butter and sugar.
- Mix until smooth.
- Add the egg.
- Add baking soda.
- Mix until well combined.
The dough should be thick and sticky. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Peanut Butter | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Baking Soda | 1 tsp |
Your dough is now ready for shaping and baking. Enjoy the process of making these delicious cookies!
Baking Instructions
Baking old-fashioned peanut butter cookies is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these simple steps to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Preheating Oven
First, you need to preheat your oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C). This step is very important for even baking. Make sure your oven is fully heated before you place the cookies inside.
Forming Cookies
Next, it’s time to form the cookies. Start by scooping out small amounts of dough. A tablespoon works well for this. Roll each scoop into a ball using your hands.
Place the dough balls on a baking sheet. Make sure to leave enough space between each ball. They will spread as they bake. Use a fork to flatten each ball slightly. Press the fork down twice, making a criss-cross pattern.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Scoop Dough | Use a tablespoon to scoop dough. |
| Roll into Balls | Roll each scoop into a ball. |
| Place on Sheet | Place dough balls on a baking sheet. |
| Flatten | Use a fork to make a criss-cross pattern. |
Now your cookies are ready to bake. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
Once done, remove the cookies from the oven. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious homemade peanut butter cookies!
Baking Tips
Baking old fashioned peanut butter cookies can be a delightful experience. Follow these tips to get the best results every time.
Perfect Texture
Achieving the perfect texture for peanut butter cookies is essential. Here are some pointers:
- Use room temperature butter for the dough.
- Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Don’t overmix the dough. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
Common Mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly:
- Using melted butter: This makes the dough too runny.
- Skipping the chilling step: Warm dough spreads too much.
- Overbaking: This leads to hard, dry cookies.
- Incorrect measuring: Use a kitchen scale for precision.
- Skipping the crisscross pattern: It helps the cookies bake evenly.
| Baking Tip | Reason |
|---|---|
| Use room temperature butter | Ensures proper creaming |
| Chill the dough | Prevents spreading |
| Don’t overmix | Keeps cookies tender |
| Use a kitchen scale | Ensures accuracy |
| Bake at 375°F | Perfect temperature for even baking |
Serving Suggestions
Old fashioned peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat. They are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to make your cookies even better.
With Beverages
Pairing your cookies with the right drink can enhance the experience. Here are some beverage suggestions:
- Milk: A classic choice. The creamy milk complements the peanut butter.
- Hot Chocolate: Perfect for a cozy evening. The rich chocolate pairs well with the cookies.
- Coffee: Great for adults. The bitter coffee balances the sweet cookies.
- Tea: A lighter option. Choose a mild tea to not overpower the cookies.
As Dessert
Old fashioned peanut butter cookies can also be the star of your dessert table. Here are some dessert ideas:
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a scoop of ice cream between two cookies.
- Cookie Crumble: Crumble the cookies over a bowl of vanilla ice cream.
- Peanut Butter Pie: Use the cookies as a crust for a homemade pie.
- Cookie Parfait: Layer cookie pieces with yogurt and fruit in a glass.
These serving suggestions will make your old fashioned peanut butter cookies even more enjoyable. Try them all and find your favorite!
Storage And Shelf Life
After baking your delicious old fashioned peanut butter cookies, proper storage is crucial. This ensures they stay fresh and tasty. Here are some tips on how to store them and extend their shelf life.
Storing Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. This prevents them from becoming stale. You can use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.
Place a piece of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread helps keep the cookies soft by absorbing excess moisture. Change the bread slice every few days to maintain freshness.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Airtight Container | Up to 1 week |
| With Bread Slice | Up to 10 days |
Freezing Options
Freezing is a great way to extend the shelf life of your cookies. Follow these steps for best results:
- Let the cookies cool completely before freezing.
- Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze them until solid, about 1-2 hours.
- Transfer the frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label the bag with the date and type of cookie.
Frozen peanut butter cookies can last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes. Enjoy your delicious cookies anytime!
Variations
Old fashioned peanut butter cookies are a timeless treat. But did you know you can tweak them? Below are some exciting variations to try. These twists will make your cookies even more delightful!
Chocolate Chip
Love chocolate? Add chocolate chips to your peanut butter cookies. Mix in 1 cup of chocolate chips into the dough. This gives a rich, sweet taste. For a gourmet touch, use dark chocolate chips. Bake as usual and enjoy the melty goodness.
Gluten-free
Need a gluten-free option? It’s easy to modify. Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour. You can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure other ingredients are gluten-free too. This keeps the texture while making it safe for gluten-sensitive individuals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Ingredients Are Needed For Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies?
You will need peanut butter, sugar, flour, baking soda, eggs, and vanilla extract. These basic ingredients create delicious, classic cookies.
How Do You Make Peanut Butter Cookies From Scratch?
Mix peanut butter, sugar, and eggs. Add flour and baking soda. Shape dough into balls, flatten with fork, and bake.
How Long Should You Bake Peanut Butter Cookies?
Bake peanut butter cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. They should be golden brown.
Can You Freeze Peanut Butter Cookie Dough?
Yes, you can freeze peanut butter cookie dough. Shape into balls, freeze on a tray, then store in a bag.
Conclusion
Creating old fashioned peanut butter cookies is simple and rewarding. Follow the recipe steps for perfect results. Enjoy these delicious treats with family and friends. They are a timeless favorite that never disappoints. Happy baking and savor every bite!
