Peanut Butter Crisscrosses
Peanut Butter Crisscrosses are classic, buttery cookies with a rich peanut flavor and a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Their charming crisscross pattern makes them perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a delightful treat with a glass of milk. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, they appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Cream shortening, sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla thoroughly.
- Add eggs and beat well.
- Stir in peanut butter.
- Sift dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt) and stir into creamed mixture.
- Form into tiny balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Press with the back of a fork to make a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using natural peanut butter instead of conventional brands. You can also substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier twist. If you prefer a crunchier texture, mix in some chopped nuts. Make sure to sift the flour to avoid clumps and ensure even mixing, similar to techniques used in other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These Peanut Butter Crisscrosses are delightful on their own or served alongside a glass of cold milk for dipping. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Consider serving them on a platter with other treats like your favorite Peach Pie or alongside a Peanut Butter Parfait for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about five minutes to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Crisscrosses contains roughly 1229 calories, with 18g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2089mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).
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 crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can definitely use crunchy peanut butter for added texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the consistency of the dough, but it will still yield delicious cookies.
What can I substitute for shortening?
You can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. This will give the cookies a slightly different flavor and texture, but they will still be delicious.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly golden at the edges and still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet, so avoid overbaking for the best 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).