Peanut butter cookies are a timeless favorite that never go out of style. But let me ask you this—what if I told you that you could whip up a batch of these classic cookies with just four ingredients? Yep, no fancy mixers, no endless ingredient lists, and absolutely no hassle. These 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies are a game-changer for anyone who loves baking but doesn’t always have the time (or patience) for complicated recipes.
Whether it’s a busy weekday, a sudden dessert craving, or that moment when your pantry feels almost empty, this recipe is here to save the day. It’s quick, foolproof, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, with just a handful of basic ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how soft, chewy, and peanut-buttery these cookies turn out. They’re so good, you’d think they came straight from a bakery.
What’s even better is that this recipe is perfect for everyone. Inexperienced bakers? No problem—this is practically impossible to mess up. Seasoned pros? You’ll love how fast and versatile these cookies are. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a gathering with friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
In this post, I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make these cookies, including step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and fun ways to customize them. I’ll even answer some common questions to make sure your cookies come out perfectly every single time. So grab your peanut butter, preheat that oven, and get ready to discover your new favorite cookie recipe. Trust me, once you make these 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies, you’ll never look back!
Craving something sweet? Try these irresistible banana bread cookies for the perfect twist on a classic favorite.
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Why 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Are a Game-Changer
Baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious, and these cookies prove it. Here’s why they deserve a spot in your recipe rotation:
- Minimal Ingredients: You only need four simple things, and you probably already have them in your kitchen.
- Quick and Easy: The dough comes together in minutes, and the cookies bake in just 10–12 minutes.
- Naturally Gluten-Free: Since there’s no flour, these cookies are gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
- Perfect for Peanut Butter Lovers: If you can’t get enough peanut butter, these cookies are your dream come true.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, sprinkle with sea salt, or drizzle with melted chocolate for a personal twist.
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Ingredients for 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these cookies:
1. Peanut Butter
The star of the show! Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth, soft texture, or go with chunky if you want a bit of crunch. Avoid natural peanut butter with oil separation, as it can make the dough difficult to handle.
2. Granulated Sugar
Sugar sweetens the cookies and helps give them that classic, slightly crisp edge. You can use white granulated sugar or brown sugar for a deeper, molasses-like flavor.
3. Egg
The egg binds everything together and adds moisture to the dough.
4. Baking Soda
This helps the cookies puff up slightly, creating that soft, chewy texture we all love.
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How to Make 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Making these cookies is as easy as it gets. Here’s the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, and baking soda. Stir until the dough is smooth and all the ingredients are fully incorporated. The mixture will be thick but easy to handle.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 4: Add the Classic Fork Pattern
Using a fork, gently press down on each ball of dough to flatten it slightly and create a crisscross pattern. This step isn’t just for looks—it also helps the cookies bake evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies will firm up as they cool.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Then, dig in!
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Tips for the Best 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Even with a simple recipe like this one, a few tricks can help you get the best results:
- Choose the Right Peanut Butter: Stick with regular, shelf-stable peanut butter. Natural varieties with oil separation can make the dough too crumbly.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before shaping the cookies.
- Don’t Overbake: These cookies may look soft when you take them out of the oven, but they’ll firm up as they cool. Overbaking can make them dry.
- Use a Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop ensures all your cookies are the same size, which helps them bake evenly.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Mix in chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or a swirl of Nutella for extra flavor and texture.
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Fun Variations of 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:
1. Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
Mix in a handful of chocolate chips to add a touch of sweetness and a bit of gooey texture.
2. Salted Peanut Butter Cookies
Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie before baking for a sweet and salty treat.
3. Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
After shaping the dough into balls, press your thumb into the center of each one to create a small well. Fill the well with your favorite jam or jelly before baking.
4. Double Peanut Butter Cookies
Add a handful of chopped peanuts to the dough for extra crunch and a stronger peanut flavor.
5. Chocolate-Dipped Peanut Butter Cookies
Once the cookies have cooled, dip half of each one into melted chocolate and let them set on parchment paper.
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Storing and Freezing 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Storing
Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, refrigerate them—they’ll stay good for about 10 days.
Freezing
To freeze baked cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To freeze the dough, roll it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. When you’re ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls directly on a baking sheet and add an extra 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
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FAQs About 4-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s not recommended, as natural peanut butter with oil separation can make the dough too oily or crumbly. Stick with regular creamy or chunky peanut butter for the best results.
2. What type of sugar works best?
White granulated sugar is the classic choice, but you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor and softer texture. A mix of both works wonderfully, too!
3. Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or a store-bought egg substitute designed for baking.
4. How can I make these cookies extra soft?
Make sure not to overbake them, as they firm up as they cool. Also, chilling the dough before baking can help keep them soft in the center.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients, and bake the cookies in batches. This is great for sharing or meal prepping sweet treats.
6. Can I make these cookies sugar-free?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like erythritol or a baking-friendly stevia blend. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture.
7. Why do peanut butter cookies have a fork pattern?
The fork pattern isn’t just decorative—it helps flatten the cookies so they bake evenly. It also gives them that classic peanut butter cookie look!
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Final Thoughts
Sometimes, less is more—and this recipe proves it. With just four simple ingredients, you can create cookies that are soft, chewy, and packed with peanut butter flavor. They’re perfect for busy days, last-minute baking, or satisfying your sweet tooth without a ton of effort.
The best part is their versatility. From chocolate chips to jam centers to a drizzle of melted chocolate, these cookies can be customized to suit any craving. Plus, since they’re naturally gluten-free, they’re a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.
So, what are you waiting for? Preheat your oven, grab your peanut butter, and get baking. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of delicious homemade cookies that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Trust me—once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!