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Classic Peanut Butter Cookies: Crispy Edges, Tender Centers

Close-up of four golden brown peanut butter cookies stacked on a white plate, showing classic crosshatch fork marks.
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Follow this tested recipe for the best peanut butter cookies that achieve the perfect balance of crispy edges and a soft, chewy center. A true classic cookie recipe.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter (not natural style)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is key for texture.
  3. Beat in the peanut butter until fully combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix the dough.
  6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  7. Use a fork to press down on each ball to create the classic crosshatch pattern, pressing once in one direction and then again perpendicular to the first press.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers may still look slightly soft.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • For the best results and that classic texture, use standard, processed creamy peanut butter, not the natural kind that separates.
  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling if your kitchen is warm; this helps prevent spreading.
  • If you want extra peanutty flavor, add 1/4 cup of finely chopped peanuts to the dough.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tasteportfolio.com/peanut-butter-cookies-recipe-crispy-tender/