Why do peanut butter cookies have fork marks?

The crisscross pattern isn't just for looks! Peanut butter dough is denser than other cookie doughs. Pressing the cookies with a fork helps them bake evenly and prevents them from staying too thick in the center.

Can I freeze peanut butter cookie dough?

Absolutely! Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a tray. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, place them on a baking sheet and add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

What type of peanut butter is best for cookies?

Both creamy and crunchy peanut butter work well, depending on your preference. However, natural peanut butter (the kind that separates) can make cookies too oily or crumbly. If using natural peanut butter, stir it well and slightly reduce the butter in the recipe.

How do I make peanut butter cookies without sugar?

You can swap regular sugar for coconut sugar, honey, or a sugar substitute like erythritol. Keep in mind that different sweeteners may change the texture slightly.

Why are my peanut butter cookies crumbly?

Crumbly cookies usually mean there's too much flour or not enough fat. Make sure to measure flour correctly and use enough peanut butter or butter to keep the dough soft.

The Best Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Description

Learn how to make the best peanut butter cookies soft, chewy, or crispy! Perfect for every occasion, with gluten-free and keto options.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
½ cup white sugar
½ cup brown sugar
1 large egg
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a bowl, cream peanut butter, butter, and sugars until smooth.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until combined.
Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet.
Press each ball with a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 180 kcal
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 120g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Peanut Butter Cookies, homemade peanut butter cookies, soft peanut butter cookies, best peanut butter cookies, easy peanut butter cookies