Softest Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that will leave you craving more. These cookies are irresistibly tender, with the perfect balance of creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and vanilla. They are ideal for dessert trays, after-school snacks, or late-night cravings, making them the best peanut butter cookie recipe you’ll ever bake. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make these mouthwatering cookies!
Why You’ll Love This Softest Peanut Butter Cookies
There are countless reasons to adore soft peanut butter cookies. Firstly, they are incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Secondly, their chewy texture makes them a favorite among cookie lovers. These cookies are versatile; add chocolate chips for a decadent twist or enjoy them plain. Additionally, they are a great source of protein, thanks to the peanut butter, and can be made gluten-free with simple substitutions. The fluffy peanut butter cookies are also great for kids, making them an ideal choice for family gatherings. Ultimately, these cookies are not just desserts; they create delightful memories!
Ingredients for Softest Peanut Butter Cookies
Gather these items:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
How to Make Softest Peanut Butter Cookies Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Cream together the butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Step 2: Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
- Step 5: Scoop the dough into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Step 6: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 9–11 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and centers are soft.
- Step 7: Let cookies rest on the tray for 5 minutes, then cool fully on a wire rack.
- Step 8: Serve warm or store for later.
Pro Tips for the Best Softest Peanut Butter Cookies
Keep these in mind:
- Ensure your butter is at room temperature for the best creamy texture.
- For peanut butter cookies with a soft texture, don’t overbake them; they should look slightly underbaked when you take them out.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking for a thicker cookie.
- Consider using gluten-free soft peanut butter cookies by substituting all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour.
Best Ways to Serve Softest Peanut Butter Cookies
These cookies can be served in various delightful ways. Pair them with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat. They also make a fantastic sandwich cookie; simply spread a layer of creamy filling between two cookies. For a fun twist, you can add soft peanut butter cookies with chocolate chips for a decadent dessert that pleases everyone!
How to Store and Reheat Softest Peanut Butter Cookies
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe bag, which can last for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions About Softest Peanut Butter Cookies
What is the secret to soft peanut butter cookies?
The secret lies in not overbaking them. Remove the cookies from the oven when they still look slightly soft in the center. Also, using brown sugar contributes to the moisture and softness of the cookie.
Why are my peanut butter cookies soft?
Your cookies might be soft due to a higher moisture content from ingredients like brown sugar or peanut butter. Additionally, if they are underbaked, they’ll retain a soft texture, which is desired in this recipe.
How do I make soft peanut butter cookies for kids?
To make cookies appealing for kids, consider adding colorful sprinkles or chocolate chips. Additionally, use fun cookie cutters to shape them into various designs that kids will love!
Variations of Softest Peanut Butter Cookies You Can Try
Here are some exciting variations to consider:
- For a healthier option, try soft peanut butter cookies without flour by using oats or almond flour.
- Create soft and chewy peanut butter cookies by adding rolled oats to the dough.
- For a fun twist, incorporate soft peanut butter cookies with chocolate chips for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Try adding a touch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-salty combination that elevates the flavor!

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making gingerbread cookies for a festive treat. If you’re looking for a savory option, creamy potato soup is a great choice!
For additional tips on baking cookies, you can refer to this guide on cookie baking.
Print
Softest Peanut Butter Cookies: 7 Secrets for Perfection
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These softest peanut butter cookies are irresistibly tender, with the perfect balance of creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and vanilla.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Cream together the butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.
- Scoop dough into balls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 9–11 minutes, until edges are lightly golden and centers are soft.
- Let cookies rest on the tray for 5 minutes, then cool fully on a wire rack.
- Serve warm or store for later.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Softest Peanut Butter Cookies










