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3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

These 3 ingredient peanut butter cookies are an easy and quick dessert made with simple pantry staples. This easy peanut butter cookies recipe comes together in minutes without using flour or butter. The cookies bake up soft in the center with lightly crisp edges and a rich peanut flavor. Perfect for beginners, these soft peanut butter cookies are great for snacks, gatherings, or a quick homemade treat.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Servings: 18
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup peanut butter
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1 large egg

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. 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.
  3. Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into evenly sized balls using your hands. This helps the cookies bake evenly.
  4. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each one to allow for slight spreading during baking.
  5. Using a fork, gently press each ball down to flatten slightly. Press again in the opposite direction to create a crisscross pattern on top.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
  7. 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