Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

These Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that brings back fond memories of baking in grandma’s kitchen. With their crispy, golden-brown exterior and soft center, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—from casual get-togethers to holiday celebrations. Their rich peanut butter flavor will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can enjoy making these cookies.
• Classic Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet sugars creates a nostalgic taste that everyone loves.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy the contrast of a golden, crispy outside and a soft, chewy center with every bite.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are great for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or dessert at family gatherings.
• Batch-Friendly: This recipe yields 24 cookies, making it easy to share with friends and family or save some for later.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium-sized bowl
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone liners
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to achieve a smooth cookie dough without tiring out your arms.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
• Baking sheets: Ensure even baking and allow multiple trays to fit in the oven at once.

Ingredients

These old-fashioned peanut butter cookies have a crispy, golden brown outside and a soft center, just like the ones that grandma used to make.

For the Dough

• 1 ¼ cups creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup salted butter (room temperature)
• 1 ¼ cups light brown sugar (packed)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

How to Make Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners. Set them aside while you prepare the dough.

Step 2: Cream the Butters

In a large bowl, using a stand mixer or hand mixer:
1. Beat together creamy peanut butter and salted butter until smooth.

Step 3: Add Sugars

To the butter mixture:
1. Add in light brown sugar and granulated sugar.
2. Beat until fluffy and well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in:
1. The eggs, one at a time.
2. Follow with the vanilla extract, blending until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour and baking soda.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Scrape down the sides as needed.

Step 6: Form the Cookies

Scoop out dough:
1. Use about 2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie ball.
2. Place them about 3 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
3. Use a fork to gently press down on each ball, creating a cross-hatch pattern on top.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven:
1. For about 12-13 minutes or until they are golden brown and no longer glossy on top.
2. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies!

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

Old-fashioned peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or savoring them with a cup of coffee, these cookies always bring joy.

With Milk

• Pairing these cookies with a glass of cold milk enhances their flavor and adds a comforting touch, making it a classic combination.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Take two cookies and fill them with your favorite ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve these cookies alongside fresh fruit like apple slices or bananas for a balanced snack that combines sweetness with freshness.

For Lunchboxes

• Pack these cookies in lunchboxes for kids or adults; they make for a satisfying sweet treat during the day.

At Parties

• Arrange them on a platter at parties, accompanied by other desserts, to create an inviting dessert table that guests will love.

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How to Perfect Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

To achieve the best old-fashioned peanut butter cookies, consider these helpful tips for perfect results every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your butter and eggs are at room temperature will help create a smoother dough and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and avoid toughening them up.
• Chill the Dough: If you have time, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain shape and enhances flavor.
• Check for Doneness: Cookies should be golden brown on the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and freshness for several days.
• Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and texture variation.

Best Side Dishes for Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

These old-fashioned peanut butter cookies can be complemented with various side dishes that enhance the overall dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Milk: A classic pairing that brings out the rich flavors of peanut butter while providing a refreshing contrast.
2. Chocolate Milkshake: A decadent choice that makes for a delightful treat when paired with warm cookies.
3. Fruit Salad: A light option that balances sweetness with freshness; use seasonal fruits for best results.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries next to your cookie for a nutritious option that still satisfies sweet cravings.
5. Coffee or Tea: These beverages complement the nutty flavors of old-fashioned peanut butter cookies beautifully, making them perfect for afternoon snacking.
6. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese; their creamy textures contrast well with crunchy cookie edges.
7. Ice Cream Sundae: Create an ice cream sundae topped with chocolate sauce next to your cookie for an indulgent dessert experience.
8. Trail Mix: A healthy side that includes nuts and dried fruit; it offers crunch and sweetness without overpowering the cookie itself.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some to watch out for:

• Incorrect Measurements: Always use precise measurements for ingredients. Too much or too little can alter the texture and taste of your cookies.

• Cold Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cookie instead of a soft and chewy one.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies due to gluten development.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven before baking. An unheated oven can cause uneven baking and affect the cookies’ structure.

• Skipping Parchment Paper: Using parchment paper or silicone liners helps prevent sticking and allows for even cooking. Skipping this step can lead to messy cleanup and broken cookies.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to three months.
• For best results, freeze them in single layers with parchment paper in between.

Reheating Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie on high for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies different?

Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies have a unique blend of crispy edges and soft centers, reminiscent of classic recipes passed down through generations.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will give your cookies added texture and flavor while still maintaining their classic appeal.

How long do these cookies last?

These cookies can last up to one week in the refrigerator or about three months if frozen properly.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before scooping and baking your cookies.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies by adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies are not just delicious but also versatile. Their comforting taste evokes cherished memories while allowing room for creativity. Whether you enjoy them as is or with added ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts, they are sure to satisfy any craving. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your family will love it!