Name: Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Craving a cookie that takes you straight back to your grandma’s kitchen? Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies do just that. With their golden edges, chewy centers, and signature fork marks, these nostalgic bites have been winning hearts for generations. Their rich peanut butter aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them the ultimate comfort treat.

Whether you’re baking a batch for the holidays, packing lunchbox surprises, or simply needing something to pair with your coffee, these cookies deliver. They strike that magical balance between sweet and salty, crispy and soft, classic and craveable. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to whip up, even for a beginner baker.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring these classic cookies to life, having the right tools is just as important as the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Mixing Bowls: Use one large for the main dough and a smaller one for dry ingredients. Glass or stainless steel works best for consistent mixing.

Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: This is essential to cream the peanut butter and sugar until smooth and fluffy, which gives the cookies their tender bite.

Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters. Peanut butter can be dense, so level off for consistent results.

Baking Sheet: A heavy-duty, rimmed sheet ensures even baking. Line it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

Fork: The classic crosshatch pattern isn’t just for aesthetics—it flattens the dough slightly for even cooking.

Cooling Rack: Transfers cookies off the hot tray to avoid overbaking from residual heat and keeps them crisp on the bottom.

With these tools in place, you’re well-equipped to bake up a batch of peanut butter cookie perfection.

Ingredients for the Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut Butter: The star of the show. Creamy peanut butter works best for that smooth, nostalgic flavor. Avoid natural types with oil separation.

Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their crackly tops.

Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a hint of molasses flavor while keeping the cookies moist.

Egg: Acts as a binder and brings richness to the dough.

All-Purpose Flour: Gives the cookies their structure. Make sure to spoon and level to avoid dense cookies.

Baking Soda: Leavening agent that helps them rise and spread just enough.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut flavor.

Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle layer of aroma and enhances the flavor profile.

How To Make the Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Peanut Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving a soft, tender crumb.

Step 2: Mix in the Egg and Vanilla

Crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Beat again until fully combined, ensuring the dough becomes smooth and cohesive.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the peanut butter base, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Shape and Press

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls. Place on a baking sheet and use a fork to create the iconic crisscross pattern.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 9–11 minutes, until the edges are golden. Don’t overbake—they firm up as they cool.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Transfer cookies to a cooling rack and let them set for 10 minutes before enjoying with milk, coffee, or just as-is!

How to Serve and Store Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

These cookies are perfect for serving at room temperature, allowing the texture to stay chewy and tender. They shine on a dessert platter, pair beautifully with coffee, and pack easily into lunchboxes or cookie jars.

For storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To freeze, layer them between parchment in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep peanut butter cookies soft?

Don’t overbake! Pull them from the oven as the edges turn golden but the centers still look a bit soft.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, if you like added texture. Just note that it can affect how the dough spreads.

Why do peanut butter cookies have fork marks?

The dough is dense, and the fork flattens them slightly to help them bake evenly.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Roll into balls and freeze on a tray before transferring to a bag. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the bake time.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Not as written. But you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with good results.

Do I need to chill the dough?

Nope! This dough is ready to bake right away, making them a quick treat.

Want More Peanut Butter Dessert Ideas?

If you’re a peanut butter lover, there’s a whole world of sweet treats waiting. Try the Chocolate Peanut Butter Dream Bars for a layered no-bake indulgence.

You might also love the Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies if you’re into richer, bakery-style textures.

For peanut butter with a fruity twist, the Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries offer a creamy filling with a touch of fun.

Or head into breakfast territory with Fluffy Japanese Souffle Pancakes and add a swipe of peanut butter for a unique spin.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dessert boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you use chunky peanut butter? Add a chocolate drizzle? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others bake it.

For more recipes, follow my daily kitchen creations on Pinterest – LadyPlate.

Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies are a nostalgic treat with crispy edges, chewy centers, and that classic crisscross pattern. Made with pantry staples, they’re simple, satisfying, and always a hit at bake sales or cozy nights in.