Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

These Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies bring back the nostalgic flavors of home baking. With their crispy, golden-brown exterior and soft center, they are perfect for family gatherings, school lunches, or simply as a delightful treat after dinner. The rich peanut butter flavor combined with a hint of sweetness makes these cookies a timeless classic that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 22 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
• Nostalgic Flavor: Enjoy the traditional taste that reminds you of grandma’s kitchen with every bite.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are great for any occasion—send them in lunch boxes or serve them at parties.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With 24 servings, there’s plenty to share with friends and family!
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, you probably already have everything you need to get started.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cookie-making process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make baking smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes mixing the dough effortless and ensures even blending of ingredients.
• Baking sheets: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your cookies without warping.
• Wire rack: Allows cookies to cool evenly, preventing sogginess.

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 your oven to 350°F. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone liners and set aside.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl using a stand mixer or hand mixer:
1. Beat the creamy peanut butter with the salted butter until smooth.
2. Add both sugars (light brown sugar and granulated sugar) and beat until fluffy.
3. Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 4: Shape the Cookies

1. Scoop dough into balls about 2 tablespoons each.
2. Place them about 3 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
3. Using a fork, gently press down on each ball to create a cross-hatch pattern on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for 12-13 minutes or until they turn golden brown and lose their glossy appearance on top.

Step 6: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool fully.

Enjoy your delicious homemade 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 party or enjoying them with a quiet cup of tea, here are some great serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing these cookies with a cold glass of milk enhances their flavor and provides a classic combination that many love.

As an Ice Cream Sandwich

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Simply place your favorite ice cream between the cookies for a delicious dessert.

Crumbled Over Yogurt

• Add crumbled old-fashioned peanut butter cookies on top of yogurt for a sweet crunch, making for a quick and tasty snack or breakfast.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of apple or banana. The sweetness of the fruit complements the rich peanut butter flavor beautifully.

Warmed Up

• Warm the cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back their soft center. This makes them even more comforting and enjoyable.

Gift Packaging

• Package the cookies in a decorative tin or box as a thoughtful homemade gift. They make for great treats during holidays or special occasions.

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How to Perfect Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

Perfecting your old-fashioned peanut butter cookies is all about paying attention to details. Here are some tips to ensure they come out just right every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing, resulting in a smoother dough.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to maintain the cookie’s soft texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading during baking.

• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when they are just golden brown for that perfect chewy center.

• Store in an airtight container: To keep them fresh longer, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

Best Side Dishes for Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

Old-fashioned peanut butter cookies can be paired with various side dishes that enhance their flavors and make for delightful combinations. Consider these options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of peanut butter.

2. Chocolate Milkshake – A creamy chocolate milkshake pairs perfectly with these cookies, making for an indulgent treat.

3. Coffee or Tea – Hot beverages like coffee or tea complement the sweetness of the cookies, providing warmth and comfort.

4. Carrot Sticks with Hummus – The crunchiness of carrot sticks dipped in hummus offers a refreshing contrast to the soft texture of the cookies.

5. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream next to warm cookies creates a delicious dessert experience.

6. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that contrast nicely with sweet peanut butter flavors.

7. Trail Mix – Serve alongside trail mix for added crunch and healthy fats, making it a satisfying snack combo.

8. Pudding Cups – Chocolate or vanilla pudding cups give another layer of sweetness while keeping things creamy and fun!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making old-fashioned peanut butter cookies can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using cold ingredients – Cold eggs and butter can affect the dough’s consistency. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Incorrect oven temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can cause cookies to burn or underbake. Always use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• Not measuring flour properly – Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down, leading to dry cookies. Use a spoon to fluff up the flour before measuring.
• Skipping the cooling time – Letting cookies cool on the sheet for too long can make them soggy. Transfer them to a wire rack after about 5 minutes for optimal texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop – Place a cookie in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies different?

Old-fashioned peanut butter cookies have a classic crispy exterior with a soft center, reminiscent of homemade treats from childhood.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add texture and additional flavor to your old-fashioned peanut butter cookies.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

Cookies are done when they are golden brown and no longer glossy on top, usually around 12-13 minutes at 350°F.

Can I customize this Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies recipe?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even swirl in some jam for added flavor and variety.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover old-fashioned peanut butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These old-fashioned peanut butter cookies bring warmth and nostalgia with each bite. Their simple ingredients make them incredibly versatile; feel free to experiment with different add-ins like chocolate chips or oats. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!