Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

If you’re searching for a delicious, fuss-free sweet treat, look no further than this amazing 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies recipe. It’s the perfect answer when you want something quick, satisfying, and bursting with rich peanut butter flavor. With just three simple pantry staples, these cookies come together effortlessly, making them ideal for beginners and busy bakers alike. Whether you’re craving something to munch on with your afternoon tea or a simple dessert for last-minute guests, these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies hit the spot every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplicity at its best: Only three ingredients mean less prep, less mess, and no complicated steps to stress over.
• Quick baking: You can have fresh cookies from mixing to munching in under 30 minutes.
• Clearly versatile: This recipe adapts easily to dietary preferences, whether gluten-free or vegan.
• Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor: Each ingredient shines through, giving a rich peanut butter taste and soft, chewy texture.
• Perfect portion control: Small batch size makes it easy to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies recipe is essential to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Nothing complicated, just simple food magic.

• Peanut butter: Creamy or chunky both work, but creamy gives a smoother texture and intense peanut flavor.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar helps add sweetness and creates that crisp exterior.
• Egg: Acts as a binding agent, holding the dough together while adding a light, tender bite.

Variations for 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative and tailor it to your taste buds or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to inspire you.

• Chocolate chips: Stir in half a cup of mini chocolate chips to add a melty, sweet surprise.
• Honey substitute: Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness twist.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free sugar alternatives to keep the cookies safe for gluten-sensitive bakers.
• Peanut butter swap: Try almond or cashew butter for a nutty variation that’s just as delightful.
• Salted boost: Sprinkle a tiny pinch of sea salt on top before baking to enhance the peanut butter flavor.

How to Make 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Preheat your oven and prepare the baking sheet

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a non-stick silicone mat to ensure your cookies won’t stick and cleanup is a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the ingredients

In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Use a spoon or electric mixer to blend everything until smooth and fully incorporated. The dough should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 3: Shape the cookies

Roll the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Press down gently with a fork, creating the classic crisscross pattern for that iconic peanut butter cookie look.

Step 4: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and the cookies are just set but still soft in the center.

Step 5: Cool and enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up while keeping a tender bite inside.

Pro Tips for Making 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

• Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your egg and peanut butter are not cold for easier mixing and uniform texture.
• Don’t overbake: The cookies will firm up as they cool, so remove them just as the edges start turning golden.
• Choose natural peanut butter: Avoid those with added oils or sugars for a healthier and purer peanut flavor.
• Use parchment paper: It prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
• Customize sugar levels: Adjust the sugar quantity slightly depending on how sweet you like your cookies.

How to Serve 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped peanuts or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top to add a pretty, flavorful finish that also gives some nice texture contrast.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk, a cup of hot coffee, or your favorite herbal tea for a comforting snack or dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange cookies in a colorful tin or on a rustic wooden board along with fresh fruit or small bowls of spreads like chocolate hazelnut or honey for a lovely homemade gift or party platter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and chewy for about 4 to 5 days.

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies ahead of time, freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy, and they’ll taste just as great as fresh.

Reheating

Warm cookies for a few seconds in the microwave or for 5 minutes at 300°F (150°C) in the oven to bring back that freshly-baked softness and melty texture.

FAQs

Can I use peanut butter with added sugar or salt?

Yes, but it’s best to use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the most balanced flavor and consistent texture.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Since the recipe contains no flour, these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tbsp water) to keep the recipe vegan-friendly.

How crunchy or soft will these cookies be?

They have a tender and chewy center with slightly crisp edges, perfect for most peanut butter cookie lovers.

Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit can add extra flavor and texture without complicating this simple recipe.

Final Thoughts

Making these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies is like discovering a little kitchen treasure — simple, satisfying, and full of personality. Whether you whip them up for a solo treat or share them with friends, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for an easy and scrumptious cookie. Give it a try today, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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