Peanut Butter Refrigerator Cookies
Creamy peanut butter and brown sugar create rich, chewy refrigerator cookies with a hint of salt, perfect for peanut lovers and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together peanut butter and brown sugar.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time.
- Add dry ingredients sifted together (flour, soda, salt).
- Form dough into a 2-inch roll and let stand in refrigerator until firm.
- Slice into 1/4-inch slices.
- Place slices on a cookie sheet and press with a floured fork across the centers.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using natural peanut butter instead of processed. You can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier twist, reminiscent of Applesauce Oatmeal Muffins. Additionally, chilling the dough for a longer duration enhances the flavors and makes slicing easier.
Serving Suggestions
These Peanut Butter Refrigerator Cookies are delightful on their own or paired with a glass of cold milk. Serve them alongside a fruit salad or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat. They also pair beautifully with Banana Pudding Cake for a decadent dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the slices in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or bake directly from frozen for a few extra minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Butter Refrigerator Cookies contains roughly 1867 calories, with 26g protein, 251g carbohydrates, and 89g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and calcium (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1551mg per serving (67% 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 natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but it may slightly alter the texture due to its oil content. If you opt for natural, ensure it's well-stirred and adjust the shortening if needed to maintain the dough's consistency.
How can I make these cookies more chocolatey?
To add a chocolatey flavor, consider mixing in chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the dough. You can replace a portion of the flour with cocoa powder to create a rich chocolate peanut butter cookie that is absolutely irresistible.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to roll and slice. You can also sprinkle a little extra flour on your hands while shaping if necessary.
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).