Crisscross Peanut Butter
Crisscross Peanut Butter cookies are crispy, nutty treats with a distinctive pattern, perfect for peanut butter lovers and suitable for casual snacking or cookie exchanges.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening in a bowl; add peanut butter and stir until blended.
- Measure flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and baking powder. Add gradually and beat in granulated sugar and brown sugar.
- Beat until the mixture is well combined.
- Add egg and beat well.
- Sift and add dry ingredients in thirds, stirring just until blended after each addition.
- Pinch off small pieces of dough and roll them between palms into small balls.
- Place 2 inches apart on greased cookie sheets.
- Flatten each ball by pressing with the tines of a fork to make a crisscross pattern.
- Dip the fork in flour to prevent sticking to the dough.
- Bake at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Remove from oven and cool on racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your shortening is at room temperature before creaming. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter. Feel free to experiment with different types of nut butters for a unique flavor twist. Additionally, for a touch of sweetness, you can add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These crisscross peanut butter cookies are delightful on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee. For a fun twist, sandwich them with a layer of your favorite jam or chocolate spread. They make a great addition to a dessert platter alongside treats like Peanut Butter Marshmallow Bars or Sweet Rolls Coffee Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or warm in an oven at 350°F for a few minutes until just heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crisscross Peanut Butter contains roughly 165 calories, with 3g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may alter the texture of the cookies slightly. Natural peanut butter is usually runnier, so you might need to adjust the flour to achieve the right consistency. Aim for a dough that holds its shape when rolled into balls.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the dough, making it easier to roll into balls. Alternatively, you can sprinkle a bit more flour on your hands or the work surface while shaping the cookies.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the centers look slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. Avoid overbaking them to maintain a chewy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).