Number "1" Peanut Butter Cookies
Chewy, rich peanut butter cookies with a crisp edge and tender center, perfect for peanut butter lovers and quick to make for any cookie craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla thoroughly until it forms a stiff dough.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pinch off small balls of dough and place them on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Mash each ball flat with a fork.
- Bake for about 12 minutes, removing before they start to shrink.
- Allow cookies to cool briefly, then loosen with a spatula.
- Let cookies cool completely before storing.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth. If you're looking for a healthier twist, substitute half the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. For added texture, fold in some chocolate chips or chopped nuts before baking. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies can dry out quickly; they should be slightly soft when removed from the oven.
Serving Suggestions
These peanut butter cookies are delightful on their own but can also be served with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat. They pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a fun twist, try sandwiching them with your favorite jam or chocolate spread. Browse more American recipes for an array of delicious options.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Number "1" Peanut Butter Cookies contains roughly 49 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g 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 for these cookies?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly. Natural peanut butter is often thinner and less sweet than regular peanut butter, so adjust the sugar accordingly if needed.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to form into balls and flatten with a fork. You can also lightly dust your hands with flour to help prevent sticking.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these peanut butter cookies gluten-free, simply ensure that the peanut butter and sugar are certified gluten-free. You can also add a gluten-free flour blend if you prefer a slightly different texture, but the recipe works well without any flour at all.
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).