Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

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Deliciously thick and chewy peanut butter cookies packed with rich flavor and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

What Are Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies?

Thick and chewy peanut butter cookies are a classic American dessert known for their dense, soft centers and rich nutty taste. Unlike crunchy cookies, these stay moist and tender thanks to the perfect balance of fats, sugars, and baking techniques.

The History of Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter cookies date back to the early 20th century when peanut butter became widely available in the U.S. The iconic crisscross pattern, often made with a fork, was popularized in the 1930s by Pillsbury recipes. Today, thick and chewy peanut butter cookies remain a favorite for their comforting texture and deep peanut flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps.
  • No Chilling Required – Ready to bake instantly.
  • Thick and Soft – The perfect chewy bite every time.
  • Rich Peanut Butter Flavor – Intense taste with every bite.

Key Ingredients for Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Core Ingredients:

  • Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter provides the main flavor and structure.
  • Flour: All-purpose flour gives the cookies body.
  • Butter: Adds moisture and richness.
  • Sugar: A combination of brown and white sugar enhances flavor and texture.
  • Eggs: Binds ingredients together and adds chewiness.
  • Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Creates lift and prevents excessive spreading.
  • Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness.

Learn about the role of ingredients in cookie baking here.

How to Make Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set it to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: Beat butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add Peanut Butter and Eggs: Mix in peanut butter, then add eggs one at a time.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Scoop and Shape: Use a cookie scoop to form dough balls, then press lightly with a fork.
  6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
  7. Cool: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Find more baking tips here.

Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Cookies

  • Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.
  • Do not overmix the dough to keep cookies tender.
  • Use high-quality peanut butter for the best taste.

FAQ: Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

  1. Moisture Content: Brown sugar and butter help retain moisture.
  2. Proper Baking Time: Slight underbaking keeps the center soft.
  3. Correct Flour Ratio: Too much flour makes cookies dry; the right balance keeps them chewy.

What are the characteristics of peanut butter cookies?

  • Rich peanut butter taste
  • Soft and chewy texture
  • Slightly crisp edges

What is the secret to making cookies soft and chewy?

Using brown sugar, melted butter, and slightly underbaking keeps cookies chewy.

Why are my peanut butter cookies not chewy?

Overbaking, using too much flour, or not enough fat can result in a drier texture.

Suggested Recipes

For more savory recipes you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here.

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