Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

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Soft, rich, and packed with deep peanut flavor, these Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies are the kind of treat that never lasts long on the cookie tray. Whether you’re baking for a holiday spread or just because it’s a Tuesday, these cookies hit all the right notes: buttery, nutty, and perfectly chewy.

What makes these cookies truly special is their texture. They’re firm around the edges with irresistibly soft, dense centers—thanks to a generous scoop of creamy peanut butter and a careful balance of brown and white sugars. No crumbling or dryness here; just thick, soft bites of pure nostalgia.

What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

For the best structure and flavor, stick with regular creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy. Natural peanut butters with separated oil can make the dough too loose and unpredictable. If you prefer chunky texture, you can swap in crunchy peanut butter—just expect a little less uniformity in shape.

Ingredients for the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

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How To Make the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is fluffy and lightened in color.

Step 2: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. This helps develop the flavors and prevents excessive spreading while baking.

Step 5: Scoop and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop the dough into 2-tablespoon portions and roll into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart. Use a fork to press down lightly and create a crisscross pattern.

Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly underbaked.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store once fully cooled.

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How to Serve and Store These Cookies

These peanut butter cookies are delicious on their own but are elevated with a glass of cold milk, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even sandwiched with a layer of jam or melted chocolate. For storing, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temp or warm briefly in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes! Scoop and freeze the dough balls on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen with an extra minute or two of bake time.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Natural peanut butter isn’t ideal for this recipe—the oils separate and can change the dough consistency.

Why chill the dough?

Chilling helps solidify the fats and melds the flavors. It also prevents the cookies from spreading too thin.

Can I add mix-ins?

Absolutely! Chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even pretzel bits can add great texture and flavor.

How do I make them gluten-free?

Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars
• Christmas Maraschino Cherry Shortbread Cookies
• Healthy Cookies Recipe
• Bisquick Chocolate Chip Cookies
• 3 Ingredient Oatmeal Breakfast Cookies

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go classic or add your own twist? Maybe a drizzle of chocolate or a dash of cinnamon?

I love seeing how everyone makes these cookies their own. Got a question or want to share a tip? Drop it below—let’s bake better together!

More everyday favorites shared here: Nina Dishes on Pinterest

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