There’s something about the smell of peanut butter baking that instantly transports me to those lazy weekend afternoons when the world seemed to slow down just enough to savor simple pleasures. These natural peanut butter cookies are the kind that fill the kitchen with a warm, inviting scent—nutty, sweet, and just a little bit nostalgic. I remember once getting so distracted by the smell that I almost forgot to set the timer. That slight pause, the gentle hum of the oven, and the anticipation of biting into a cookie that’s soft on the inside and just a little crisp on the edges—those moments make baking feel like more than just a task.
These cookies aren’t about fancy ingredients or complicated steps. Instead, they lean into the beauty of natural peanut butter and a handful of pantry staples, delivering a chewy texture that’s comforting without being overly sweet. And honestly, that’s what makes them special—they’re a treat that feels honest and unpretentious.
Why You’ll Love It
- Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up.
- Made with natural peanut butter, so you get wholesome flavor without the preservatives.
- Simple, straightforward ingredients mean less fuss and more time enjoying cookies.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. These cookies don’t try to do too much, and that’s refreshing.
If you’re someone who prefers snacks that feel a little more genuine, these cookies might just become your go-to. They’re easy enough to whip up on a whim, and their gentle sweetness doesn’t overpower your senses.
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Natural Peanut Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
Deliciously soft and chewy natural peanut butter cookies made with simple ingredients and no added preservatives. Perfect for a wholesome treat!
Ingredients
1 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup natural peanut butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Mix all ingredients thoroughly until a smooth dough forms.
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, form dough balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Flatten each dough ball gently with a fork, making a crisscross pattern on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Kitchen Notes: You don’t need any fancy tools here—just a bowl and something to mix with. I usually flatten the dough balls with a fork, but sometimes I just press them lightly with my fingers if I’m feeling lazy. These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or even a cup of black coffee if you want a slight contrast. I’ve tried adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking—it’s a nice touch but not necessary. Sometimes I swap vanilla extract for almond extract, which gives a subtly different flavor, though I haven’t tested it with all types of peanut butter. They freeze well, too, so if you make a big batch, stash some for later.
FAQ
Can I use crunchy peanut butter? Yes, crunchy peanut butter works just fine and adds a bit of texture to the cookies.
Do I have to chill the dough? Not really—this recipe is pretty forgiving and you can bake right away.
How long do these cookies stay fresh? Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they’ll last about five days, but honestly, they rarely last that long in my house.
Can I make them vegan? I haven’t tried replacing the egg, but a flax egg might work. Let me know if you try it!
Feel free to try these natural peanut butter cookies the next time you want a simple, comforting treat. You might find yourself reaching for them more often than you expect.