Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
Recommended for Best Flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- pinch fine sea salt
Optional Add-ins
- ½ cup chocolate chips
- peanut butter chips
- chopped roasted peanuts
- flaky sea salt
- mini chocolate candies
Instructions
1. Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place the rack in the center.
Line one baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix
Combine
- peanut butter
- sugar
- egg
Mix until completely smooth.
Add vanilla and salt if using.
Important
If using natural peanut butter, stir it well before measuring.
3. Shape
Scoop about 1 tablespoon dough.
Roll into smooth balls.
Place 2 inches apart.
Flatten gently using a fork.
Rotate fork 90°.
Press again to create the classic crisscross pattern.
4. Bake
Bake 10–12 minutes.
Edges should be lightly golden.
Centers should still look soft.
Do not overbake.
5. Cool
Leave cookies on baking sheet
10 minutes
Transfer carefully onto a wire rack.
Cool completely before storing.
Notes
✔ Creamy commercial peanut butter gives the most reliable results.
✔ Natural peanut butter works if stirred thoroughly.
✔ Vanilla adds bakery flavor.
✔ Sea salt balances sweetness.
✔ Do not overbake.
✔ Cookies continue cooking while cooling.
✔ Store only after completely cooled.
✔ Freeze baked cookies or dough for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 11 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free