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The Perfect Crispy-Tender Peanut Butter Cookies

A tempting stack of freshly baked peanut butter cookies featuring classic crisscross fork marks.

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This is the foolproof recipe for classic peanut butter cookies that achieve the ideal balance: crispy edges and a soft, tender center every time you bake.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 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 and peanut butter until smooth.
  3. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Scoop the dough into 1.5-tablespoon balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  8. Use a fork to press down on each dough ball, creating a crosshatch pattern. Press once in one direction, then press again perpendicular to the first marks.
  9. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden brown. The centers may still look slightly soft.
  10. 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 texture, use commercial creamy peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) rather than natural, oil-separated peanut butter.
  • Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before scooping helps prevent excessive spreading, leading to thicker cookies.
  • The crosshatch pattern is essential; it helps flatten the dense dough so the cookies bake evenly.

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