If you’re searching for a treat that’s irresistibly tender, bursting with peanut butter flavor, and oh-so-simple to whip up, let me introduce my go-to Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies. Made with everyday pantry staples and naturally gluten-free, these cookies are a dream come true for peanut butter lovers and busy bakers alike. Prepare to fall in love with their chewy edges, soft centers, and that signature peanutty richness that just melts in your mouth. Whether you’re craving a quick sweet fix or baking for friends, this classic will always have a special place in your cookie jar!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies lies in their straightforward, fuss-free ingredient list. Each element brings its own magic, from dreamy creaminess to just the right amount of chew and sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need—and why:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: This is the heart and soul of the cookie, providing moisture, structure, and intense flavor.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Delivers the classic sweetness and helps create those irresistible, slightly crisp edges.
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses depth and extra chew.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, holding everything together and lending richness to the cookies.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, aromatic background note.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Gives the cookies a little lift and that perfect crumb.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances out the sweetness and highlights the nuttiness.
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional): For those moments when only peanut butter and chocolate will do!
How to Make Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures easy cookie removal and makes cleanup a breeze. There’s nothing quite as satisfying as cookies that never stick!
Step 2: Mix Your Cookie Dough
Grab a medium mixing bowl and combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Stir everything together until the dough is smooth and glossy. If you’re adding mini chocolate chips, fold them in gently at the end. The dough will be thick and luscious, and you’ll catch that heavenly peanut aroma right away.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized mounds of dough and roll them between your palms to form balls. Place each ball onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space to allow for spreading. Take a fork, dip it lightly in sugar (optional to prevent sticking), and flatten each ball with a crisscross pattern—it’s a hallmark of traditional Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies and gives them that iconic look!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underdone—trust me, they’ll finish setting as they cool. This careful timing is the key to keeping them chewy and moist.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool directly on the baking sheet for 5 minutes so they can firm up without losing their soft centers. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely (if you can wait that long!). These gems are worth the brief anticipation, promise.
How to Serve Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
Garnishes
Looking to dress things up a bit? Try sprinkling the cookies with a pinch of flaky sea salt while they’re still warm for a sophisticated sweet-and-salty twist. If you’re feeling decadent, drizzle with a little melted chocolate or dust with powdered sugar—it’s all about making your batch feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies play wonderfully with a tall glass of cold milk or a steaming mug of coffee. For a more elevated dessert moment, serve them alongside vanilla bean ice cream or a handful of fresh strawberries. The combo of creamy, nutty cookie with cool, smooth sides is pure bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
These cookies deserve the spotlight! Stack them high and tie with rustic twine for charming edible gifts, or arrange them on a tiered platter at your next gathering. You can even sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two for the easiest (and most delicious) ice cream sandwiches ever. Let your imagination run wild—these cookies are as versatile as they are tasty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pop any leftover Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies into an airtight container and keep them at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh, soft, and fabulous for up to five days—assuming they last that long! If you live in a humid area, toss in a slice of bread to help maintain their perfect texture.
Freezing
For even longer storage, these cookies freeze beautifully. Let them cool completely, then lay them out in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months. Whenever cravings strike, simply thaw at room temperature for a quick homemade snack.
Reheating
If you love your cookies warm and gooey, give them a quick 5-10 second zap in the microwave. They’ll taste like they’re fresh from the oven. Just be careful not to overheat—they’re delicate and don’t need much time to come back to life.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but be sure to use well-stirred, thick natural peanut butter for best results. If it’s too oily or runny, the cookies may spread too much; a quick chill of the dough can help firm things up.
Are these cookies truly gluten-free?
They are! Since there’s no flour in this recipe, Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies are naturally free of gluten. Just double-check your peanut butter and baking soda if you’re baking for someone with allergies.
Can I make these without eggs?
Absolutely. A flaxseed “egg” (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) works well as a substitute. The texture will be slightly different, but they remain chewy and delicious.
Can I use chunky peanut butter?
Definitely! Chunky peanut butter provides added crunch and texture. It’s a fun way to mix things up and adds a pleasant surprise with every bite.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Look for set edges and a slightly soft center. The cookies will appear underbaked at first, but as they cool they achieve that perfect chewy consistency that makes Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies so irresistible.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried homemade Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies yet, I can’t encourage you enough to jump in and give them a whirl. Every bite is packed with comfort and nostalgia, but they’re so simple you’ll want to whip up a batch any day of the week. Happy baking—and happy munching!
Print
Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies are a simple and delicious treat that’s perfect for those who are gluten-free or just love peanut butter. With a chewy texture and a hint of sweetness, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Cookies:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dough: In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt until smooth. Fold in the mini chocolate chips if desired.
- Shape and Bake: Roll tablespoon-sized portions of dough into balls and place them on the baking sheet. Flatten each ball with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are set but centers are still slightly soft.
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- These cookies are naturally gluten-free.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For extra crunch, use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 11g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
