Are you craving a warm, gooey peanut butter cookie that melts in your mouth? Look no further! This recipe uses shortening for that wonderfully tender crumb you remember from your childhood—the kind that practically disappears the moment it touches your tongue. Forget complicated techniques; this easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, delivering delicious results every time. Get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food! This is one of those best recipes that's quick and easy to make.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (the smoother, the better!)
- 1/2 cup shortening (Crisco is a popular choice)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or other mix-ins
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter and shortening until smooth. This is easiest with an electric mixer, but you can certainly do it by hand—just be prepared for a little arm workout!
Add Sweetness and Flavor:
- Gradually beat in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined. The mixture will be thick and creamy.
Incorporate the Eggs and Flavoring:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Dry Ingredients Magic:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
Mix-ins (Optional):
- If using, gently fold in your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips or chopped peanuts.
Shape and Bake:
- Roll rounded tablespoons of dough into balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Use a fork to create a criss-cross pattern on top of each cookie – this adds a classic touch!
Baking Time:
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as ovens vary.
Cooling and Enjoying:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these warm, gooey peanut butter cookies with a glass of milk—the perfect quick dinner dessert or afternoon snack.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies:
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature ingredients helps them blend together more smoothly, creating a better texture.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For even thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This also helps prevent spreading.
- Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
Variations:
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chunks for an extra decadent treat.
- Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies: Swirl in a spoonful of grape jelly before baking for a fun twist.
- Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Cookies: Add a drizzle of salted caramel sauce after baking for an exquisite flavor combination.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on size and added ingredients)
These delicious peanut butter cookies offer a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors and are a perfect addition to any occasion. Enjoy this easy recipe for homemade cooking and let the wonderful aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your kitchen! These are great for a quick dinner dessert or a simple, satisfying treat. They are also wonderful additions to your easy recipes collection, and a fantastic option for healthy meals when you crave something sweet yet still want it to be relatively healthy.