Easy 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies – Soft, Chewy, No Flour, Quick Homemade Recipe
These 3 ingredient peanut butter cookies are simple, quick, and full of rich peanut flavor. They are made with just a few basic ingredients that are easy to find in any kitchen. No flour or butter is needed, which makes this recipe even easier.
This easy peanut butter cookies recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a sweet treat without spending too much time. The cookies come out soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, making them perfect for snack time or dessert.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Only three simple ingredients required
- No flour, no butter, and no complicated steps
- Quick to prepare and bake
- Soft, chewy texture with a rich flavor
- Perfect for beginners and kids
- Minimal clean up needed
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
Ingredient Notes or Substitutions
- Creamy peanut butter creates a smooth and soft cookie texture
- Chunky peanut butter adds a light crunch in every bite
- Brown sugar can be used instead of white sugar for a deeper, caramel-like taste
- Natural peanut butter should be well stirred before using to avoid oily dough
- Optional: add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra flavor
- Optional: a small pinch of salt can balance the sweetness
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Baking Tray
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is important so the cookies bake evenly. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make clean up easier.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, add the peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together. Keep mixing until the dough becomes thick, smooth, and fully combined. Make sure there are no streaks of egg left in the mixture.
Step 3: Roll the Dough into Balls
Take small portions of the dough using a spoon or cookie scoop. Roll each portion gently between your hands to form smooth balls. Try to keep all the balls the same size so they bake evenly.
Step 4: Arrange on the Tray
Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking tray. Leave enough space between each cookie because they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 5: Create the Classic Pattern
Use a fork to gently press down on each dough ball. Press once in one direction and then again in the opposite direction to create a crisscross pattern. This also helps the cookies bake evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. The edges should look set, but the centers may still appear soft. This is normal and helps keep the cookies tender.
Step 7: Cool the Cookies
Remove the tray from the oven and let the cookies rest on the tray for about 5 minutes. They will firm up as they cool. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Results
- Do not overbake, as this can make the cookies dry
- The cookies will continue to firm up after baking
- Use room temperature ingredients for easier mixing
- If the dough feels sticky, chill it for 10 to 15 minutes
- Press the cookies evenly to ensure even baking
Variations or Add-ins
- Mix in chocolate chips for a sweet twist
- Add chopped peanuts for extra crunch
- Sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking
- Add a small piece of chocolate in the center after baking
- Mix in a pinch of cinnamon for a warm flavor
What to Serve With It
- Cold milk for a classic pairing
- Hot tea or coffee for a cozy snack
- Vanilla ice cream for a dessert plate
- Fresh fruits for a light balance
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days
- Keep them at room temperature for best texture
- Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months
- Thaw at room temperature before serving
- Warm in the microwave for 8 to 10 seconds for a soft texture
3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, add peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Mix thoroughly using a spoon or spatula until a smooth and thick dough forms with no visible egg streaks.
- Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into evenly sized balls using your hands. This helps the cookies bake evenly.
- Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each one to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Using a fork, gently press each ball down to flatten slightly. Press again in the opposite direction to create a crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
- Remove the tray from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the tray for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smoother texture and consistent results
- Chunky peanut butter can be used for added crunch
- Natural peanut butter should be well mixed before using to avoid oily dough
- Do not overbake; cookies will continue to firm up as they cool
- Dough can be chilled for 10 to 15 minutes if it feels too soft or sticky
- Keep cookie sizes even to ensure uniform baking
- A fork dipped in sugar can help prevent sticking while pressing
- Optional: add 1/2 tsp vanilla extract for extra flavor
- Optional: sprinkle a pinch of salt on top before baking for balance
- Cookies may look soft when removed from oven but will set as they cool
This 3 ingredient peanut butter cookies recipe is quick, simple, and full of flavor. It is perfect for anyone who wants an easy dessert without complicated steps. These soft peanut butter cookies are a great choice for everyday baking and are sure to be enjoyed again and again.
