Craving a sweet treat fast? These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are a quick dessert recipe masterpiece, delivering chewy, peanut-buttery goodness with minimal effort. You’ll love how simple and satisfying these cookies are to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Peanut Butter: Use creamy or crunchy, but avoid natural, oil-separated brands for best results.
- Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar works too for a chewier cookie.
- Egg: No substitutes for this recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 18 cookies
- Calories per serving: 120
- Tools Needed: Mixing bowl, baking sheet, parchment paper or non-stick spray.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
2. Mix the Dough
Combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and egg in a medium mixing bowl. Stir until a uniform dough forms. This will happen quickly.
3. Form the Cookies
Roll the dough into small, 1-inch balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Flatten each ball slightly with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. They will be soft when warm but firm up as they cool. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Variation Ideas:
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for an extra treat.
- Sprinkles: Add a tablespoon of sprinkles to the dough for a festive touch.
- Sea Salt: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking to enhance the flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store your 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you make these cookies without an egg?
No, the egg is crucial for binding the ingredients together in this specific recipe.
Why are my cookies falling apart?
Ensure you are using a regular, stir-free peanut butter. Natural peanut butters can sometimes be too oily, affecting the texture.
Can you use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar will give your cookies a slightly chewier texture and a deeper flavor.
How do you know when the cookies are done baking?
The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers should look set, even if they still feel a little soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
Can you double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredient amounts and bake in batches if necessary.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your peanut butter and any add-ins are gluten-free, these cookies are naturally gluten-free.