3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
These incredibly simple 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies are a quick and satisfying treat, naturally gluten-free and easily adaptable for a sugar-free diet. They bake up with a delightful chewiness and rich peanut flavor, perfect for a last-minute craving.
For 18 servings
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the natural creamy peanut butter, granular sweetener blend, and the large egg. Stir vigorously with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated and the mixture forms a cohesive dough.
Scoop the dough into approximately 1-inch (2.5 cm) balls. A small cookie scoop works perfectly for this. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) of space between each cookie.
Using the tines of a fork, gently press down on each cookie dough ball to create a criss-cross pattern. This helps flatten the cookies slightly and gives them their classic peanut butter cookie appearance.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers appear set but still slightly soft. Be careful not to overbake, as they will continue to firm up as they cool.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5-10 minutes. This is crucial as they are very delicate when warm. After cooling slightly, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve warm or at room temperature. Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use natural peanut butter: For the best texture and to ensure the recipe works as intended, use natural peanut butter that contains only peanuts and salt, with no added oils or sugars. Stir it well before measuring.
- 2Don't overbake: These cookies are best when slightly soft and chewy. Overbaking will result in a dry, crumbly texture. They will firm up considerably as they cool.
- 3Chill the dough (optional): If your dough seems too soft or sticky to handle, cover the bowl and refrigerate it for 15-30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll into balls.
- 4Even baking: For consistent results, use a cookie scoop to ensure all cookies are roughly the same size, promoting even baking.
Adapt it for your goals.
Chocolate Chip Delight
Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate into the dough for an extra layer of sweetness and texture.
Nut Butter SwapNut Butter Swap
Experiment with other natural nut butters like almond butter or cashew butter for a different flavor profile, keeping in mind the texture might vary slightly.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for a warm, aromatic twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Peanut butter is an excellent source of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall satiety.
Naturally Gluten-Free
Without any flour, these cookies are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe and delicious option for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Healthy Fats
Natural peanut butter provides monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health and can help with nutrient absorption.
Frequently asked questions
While you can, the results may vary. Regular peanut butter often contains added sugars and oils, which can change the texture and sweetness. Natural peanut butter (just peanuts and salt) is recommended for the best outcome.
