3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

I absolutely love how simple and satisfying these cookies are — it’s amazing that you can whip up such a delicious treat with just three ingredients! The 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is one of those go-to recipes I rely on when I want something sweet, quick, and fuss-free. Whether you’re baking with kids, running low on pantry staples, or just craving a classic peanut butter cookie, this recipe has got your back.

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed by how perfectly chewy and flavorful the cookies turned out, even without fancy additions. You’ll find that it works great as an everyday snack or a last-minute dessert when company drops by. Plus, it’s super budget-friendly and incredibly easy to customize if you want to get creative.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe uses simple ingredients that most people already have on hand. The peanut butter provides richness and flavor, while the sugar sweetens things up and the egg binds everything perfectly.

• Peanut Butter: Opt for creamy for smoother cookies, but chunky works if you like a bit of crunch.
• White Sugar: Regular granulated sugar is best here to get that classic sweet texture.
• Egg: Helps bind the dough and adds a little lift; room temperature eggs mix more smoothly.

Variations

I love playing around with this 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe depending on the season or mood. You can keep it super simple or add your own twists to make it uniquely yours.

• Chocolate Chips: I like tossing in a handful for an irresistible peanut butter-chocolate combo my family goes crazy for.
• Honey or Maple Syrup Swap: For a slightly different sweetness profile, try swapping half or all of the sugar.
• Salted Peanut Butter: If you prefer a balance of sweet and salty, using salted peanut butter adds an extra dimension.
• Vegan Version: You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg to make these cookies vegan-friendly without losing their charm.

How to Make 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use an ungreased baking sheet if you prefer a crispier bottom on your cookies. This step ensures even baking and easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mix Your Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, white sugar, and the egg. I usually use an electric mixer to blend them until the mixture is smooth and creamy. It only takes about a minute, but you can also mix by hand if you like. The key is to get an even consistency so your cookies bake evenly.

Step 3: Shape Your Cookies

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about an inch apart on your baking sheet. Don’t skip the spacing — these cookies spread a bit, and you don’t want them merging into one giant cookie! Then, gently flatten each ball with a fork, creating a classic criss-cross pattern. The fork marks not only look iconic but also help the cookie bake evenly.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies for about 10 minutes or until the edges are firm and the cookies no longer look shiny in the center. I keep a close eye starting at the 9-minute mark because ovens vary, and you don’t want them overbaked. Once out of the oven, let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely — this helps them set up and prevents breakage.

How to Serve 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle a tiny pinch of coarse sea salt on top before baking if I’m craving a salty-sweet vibe — it really amps up the flavor in the best way. Sometimes I add a few mini chocolate chips or crushed peanuts for garnish to make them prettier for guests.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of hot tea or coffee for a comforting snack. For brunch or dessert spreads, I serve them alongside fresh fruit or a small cheese board to balance sweetness and richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or parties, I like stacking these cookies with layers of parchment paper between to create a charming cookie tower. Wrapping a bunch together with twine and attaching a hand-written note turns them into lovely homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They maintain their chewy texture really well, and by the end of the week, they’re often even more flavorful.

Freezing

You can freeze baked cookies or dough balls for later. For best results, freeze them on a baking sheet first so they don’t stick together, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, just thaw at room temperature or pop them in the oven for a few minutes.

Reheating

I like reheating these cookies for 10-15 seconds in the microwave to bring back that fresh-baked warmth and softness. You can also warm them in a low oven (around 300°F) for 5 minutes if you want a slightly crisp edge again.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe is truly a gem in my kitchen arsenal — so easy, reliable, and delightful every time. If you’re looking for a quick, no-fuss cookie that still delivers all that peanut buttery goodness, you’ll really enjoy making these. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become one of your favorite quick treats to bake and share with friends or family.

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