When you’re in the mood for a quick and delicious treat, look no further than 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies. These simple yet satisfying cookies are perfect for both beginners in the kitchen and seasoned bakers looking for a no-fuss recipe. With just three basic ingredients—peanut butter, sugar, and an egg—you can whip up a batch in no time. You’ll love how easy it is to make these cookies, and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is just the icing on the cake.
Why We Love This 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Not only do you get to indulge in rich and nutty flavors with every bite, but you also enjoy the satisfaction of making cookies that are free from unnecessary additives. These peanut butter cookies require minimal effort, making them an excellent choice for busy days or last-minute cravings. Plus, they’re gluten-free, allowing everyone to partake in the joy of freshly baked cookies. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them as a personal treat, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients about 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
- 1 cup peanut butter: Choose creamy or crunchy, depending on your texture preference.
- 1 cup sugar: Granulated sugar works best for that sweet crunch.
- 1 egg: This binds everything together and adds a rich flavor.
How to Make 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Using a fork or an electric mixer, mix these ingredients together until they form a smooth and creamy dough. Make sure everything is well incorporated for the best texture.
- Next, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for easier clean-up.
- With a spoon, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie as they will spread slightly while baking.
- Flatten each mound of dough slightly using a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on the top. This not only gives your cookies a classic look but also helps them cook more evenly.
- Now, it’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on them; when the edges turn golden brown, they’re ready!
- Once they are done, remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes. This makes them easier to transfer without breaking. After a short cooling period, move them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
How to Serve 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Serving your freshly baked 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies is a delightful experience. You can enjoy them warm, straight from the oven, when they are soft and chewy. Pair them with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that satisfies your sweet tooth. For a more delightful treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, creating a cookie sandwich that is purely indulgent. You can also present them on a decorative platter during family gatherings or festive occasions. The attractive crisscross markings make them visually appealing, and their simple yet tasty flavor will impress everyone.
Expert Tips: 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
- Choose Quality Peanut Butter: The type of peanut butter you use impacts the flavor and texture of your cookies. Natural peanut butter, free from added sugars or oils, is an excellent choice.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is blended. Overmixing can make the cookies tough.
- Adjust Baking Time: Each oven bakes differently. Start checking at the 10-minute mark, and remove the cookies when they’re golden at the edges but still soft in the middle.
- Cool Properly: Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and prevents breakage.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a pinch of sea salt before baking for an extra touch of flavor.
How to Store 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
To keep your 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but you’ll probably find they disappear much faster! If you make a big batch and want to preserve them longer, consider freezing the cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy them, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their warm, chewy texture.
Variation of 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
While the classic 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are delicious on their own, there are various tweaks you can make to customize them to your taste. Here are a few ideas:
- Chocolate-Peanut Butter Combo: Incorporate chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey twist. You could add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough before baking.
- Nutty Add-ons: Experiment with other nut butters, like almond or cashew butter, for a different nutty flavor.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth and depth of flavor. These spices can elevate your cookies to a new level.
- Stuffed Cookies: Make an indulgent version by stuffing a dollop of Nutella or jam in the center of each cookie before baking.
- Seasonal Spices: For fall or winter flavors, add pumpkin spice or ginger for a seasonal twist.
FAQ
What are 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies?
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are simple cookies made with just peanut butter, sugar, and an egg. They are easy to prepare and perfect for those looking for a quick dessert.
How long do 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies can last up to a week. If you freeze them, they can stay fresh for about three months.
Can I make 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies gluten-free?
Yes! The ingredients for this recipe are naturally gluten-free, making these cookies a great choice for those with gluten intolerance.
What can I add to 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies?
You can enhance the flavor of your cookies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or spices. You can also experiment with different types of nut butters.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
Your cookies are ready when the edges turn golden brown but the centers may still look soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Now, you’re all set to whip up a delicious batch of 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies! Enjoy the baking process and, most importantly, savor your sweet treats!

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter Choose creamy or crunchy, depending on your texture preference.
- 1 cup sugar Granulated sugar works best for that sweet crunch.
- 1 large egg This binds everything together and adds a rich flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Mix until a smooth and creamy dough forms.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Flatten each mound of dough slightly with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern.
Baking
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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