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The Best Soft and Chewy Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

A stack of four classic peanut butter cookies with the traditional criss-cross fork marks, sitting on a light plate.

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Follow this straightforward recipe to make classic peanut butter cookies that are perfectly soft and chewy. This recipe uses simple ingredients for a comforting, homemade treat.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, beat together the creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix the dough.
  6. Scoop the dough into rounded tablespoons and roll into balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  7. Use a fork to press down on each ball to create a crisscross pattern. This helps the cookies bake evenly and stay thick.
  8. Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look slightly soft.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For thicker cookies that stay soft, slightly chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling and pressing.
  • Use creamy peanut butter for the best texture, as natural-style peanut butter can change the dough consistency.
  • Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top of the dough balls before baking for enhanced flavor.

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