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Chef Tariq’s Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

Three golden brown peanut butter cookies with classic criss-cross fork marks served on a white plate.

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Follow this recipe for the best peanut butter cookies, achieving crispy edges and a tender, peanut-rich center with the perfect crosshatch top.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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
  • 1 3/4 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 to the butter mixture. Beat until light and fluffy. This step helps create those crispy edges.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then mix 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 the dough.
  7. Scoop the dough into balls, about 1.5 tablespoons each. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  8. Press each dough ball down with a fork in a crisscross pattern. This classic cookie recipe technique ensures even baking.
  9. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. The centers should 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 an extra rich peanut flavor, use a natural, unsweetened peanut butter.
  • If you prefer a slightly chewier cookie, slightly underbake them by about one minute.
  • You can chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help the cookies hold their shape better.

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