Name: Old-fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies: Classic, Crispy, and Full of Flavor
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¼ cups creamy peanut butter; 1 cup salted butter, room temperature; 1 ¼ cups light brown sugar, packed; ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda

There’s something undeniably comforting about biting into a soft, golden cookie packed with rich peanut butter flavor — just like grandma used to make. These old-fashioned peanut butter cookies bring all the nostalgia with a crispy edge, tender center, and the signature fork-marked tops. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just need a quick, satisfying treat, this timeless recipe delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love These Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

Old-fashioned peanut butter cookies are a staple for a reason. They’re quick to make, family-friendly, and require only basic pantry ingredients. With their rich peanut flavor and perfectly crumbly texture, these cookies strike the ideal balance between crunchy and soft — making them an irresistible treat for kids and adults alike. Plus, they store well and are freezer-friendly, so you can bake ahead or save some for later.

Pantry Staples That Make Magic: Ingredients Explained

• Creamy Peanut Butter: The heart of the recipe, it gives these cookies their signature flavor and smooth texture.
• Salted Butter: Adds richness and depth; opt for unsalted if you prefer more control over salt levels.
• Light Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a slight molasses sweetness.
• Granulated Sugar: Contributes to the crisp edges and caramelization.
• Eggs: Help bind everything together and add structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the cookie’s overall sweetness and warmth.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base structure; keeps the cookies tender yet firm.
• Baking Soda: The leavening agent that gives just enough rise to keep the center soft.

Simple Ingredient Swaps and Customizations

If you’re out of something or need dietary tweaks, here are smart swaps:

• Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use instead of creamy for added texture and a deeper peanut flavor.
• Gluten-Free Flour Blend: A great substitute for those avoiding gluten; look for 1:1 baking blends.
• Unsalted Butter + Pinch of Salt: Offers more control over the final flavor.
• Natural Peanut Butter: Not recommended due to spreading issues, but if used, stir thoroughly and refrigerate dough before baking.
• Add-Ins: Consider tossing in peanut butter chips, chocolate chips, or chopped peanuts for variety.

How to Make Old-fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies — Step by Step

Preheat and Prep: Set your oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
Cream the Butters: In a large mixing bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter and room-temperature butter until smooth.
Add Sugars: Mix in the brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, blending fully before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Scoop and Shape: Use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion dough onto prepared sheets, spacing them 3 inches apart.
Make the Signature Crisscross: Press each ball of dough down gently with a fork in a crosshatch pattern.
Bake: Bake for 12–13 minutes or until golden and no longer glossy on top.
Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling.

Expert Tips for Baking Success

• Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies just before they look done — they’ll finish baking as they cool.
• Room Temperature Butter: Helps everything mix evenly and gives a smoother dough.
• Fork Pattern is Key: Not just for looks — it helps the cookies spread evenly and bake properly.
• Flavor Enhancers: Try mixing in a pinch of cinnamon or a handful of Reese’s Pieces for extra flair.
• Storage Matters: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Creative Twists and Delicious Pairings

Give these classic cookies a twist or serve them up in new ways:

• Mini Cookies: Roll into 1-tablespoon balls for smaller portions; reduce bake time to about 10 minutes.
• Peanut Butter Sandwich Cookies: Slather a dollop of peanut butter or chocolate ganache between two cookies.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour to make them accessible to all.
• Peanut Butter Ice Cream Sandwiches: Sandwich with vanilla or chocolate ice cream and freeze until firm.
• Pair With: A glass of cold milk, a hot cup of coffee, or crumbled over banana pudding.

Why These Cookies Are Always in Season

Old-fashioned peanut butter cookies aren’t just for one time of year — they’re perfect for everything from school lunches and bake sales to holiday cookie trays. Their long shelf life and freezability make them a go-to choice when you want to prepare ahead. Plus, their classic flavor profile appeals to just about everyone, making them a crowd-pleaser at any event.

So whether you’re craving a taste of childhood or need a no-fuss dessert for guests, these old-fashioned peanut butter cookies are always a sweet idea.

Conclusion

There’s a reason old-fashioned peanut butter cookies remain a beloved favorite — they’re simple to make, packed with nostalgic flavor, and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re using creamy peanut butter for a smooth bite or adding your own creative twist with crunchy mix-ins, these cookies hit the sweet spot every time. The golden-brown edges, soft centers, and classic crosshatch pattern make them instantly recognizable and completely irresistible. Bake a batch today and bring a little bit of that timeless comfort into your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions Old-fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

Can I freeze old-fashioned peanut butter cookies?

Absolutely. These cookies freeze beautifully. Once baked and cooled, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. If stacking, use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the dough and bake cookies fresh as needed.

Why do peanut butter cookies have fork marks?

The crosshatch pattern isn’t just for looks — it’s functional, too. Peanut butter cookie dough is dense and doesn’t spread as much during baking. Pressing with a fork helps flatten the cookies, allowing them to bake evenly. It also gives that signature “old-fashioned” look we all love.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs in old-fashioned peanut butter cookies using common egg replacers. Options include 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and rested for 5 minutes). Keep in mind that texture may be slightly softer.

What type of peanut butter works best for these cookies?

Stick with creamy, shelf-stable peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for the best texture and consistency. Natural peanut butters (those with oil separation) can cause the cookies to spread too much. If you do use natural peanut butter, make sure to mix it thoroughly and chill the dough before baking.

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