NYT Cooking, known for its wide array of mouthwatering recipes, has shared a delightful recipe for peanut butter cookies that’s sure to be a hit with fans of this classic treat. These cookies strike the perfect balance between chewy and crunchy, offering a burst of peanut butter flavor in every bite. Here’s a closer look at how to make these irresistible cookies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the smooth peanut butter and sugar until well combined. This forms the base of your cookie dough.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: To the peanut butter and sugar mixture, add the beaten egg and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough is smooth and the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop out teaspoon-sized balls of dough. Roll them in your hands to make them round, then roll each ball in extra sugar to give them a sweet, crispy exterior.
- Create Patterns: Place the sugared dough balls on your prepared baking sheet. Using a fork, gently press down on each ball to flatten it and create a crisscross pattern. This not only gives your cookies a classic peanut butter cookie look but also helps them cook evenly.
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until they are golden around the edges but still soft in the center. The cookies will firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This rest period helps them set properly.
Tips and Variations
- For Chunkier Cookies: Add chopped peanuts or chocolate chips to the dough for an extra texture and flavor.
- Peanut Butter Types: While smooth peanut butter is recommended, feel free to experiment with chunky varieties for added crunch.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can also be frozen for long-term storage.
These peanut butter cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, with a simple ingredient list and straightforward instructions. Perfect for an afternoon snack, a school lunchbox treat, or even as a thoughtful homemade gift, these cookies are sure to please peanut butter lovers of all ages. Enjoy the rich, comforting taste of homemade peanut butter cookies with this delightful recipe from NYT Cooking.