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3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

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Whip up these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies for a quick and delicious treat! With just peanut butter, sugar, and an egg, you'll create soft, chewy cookies that everyone loves. They bake in minutes and satisfy any sweet craving fast. Perfect for an easy dessert or snack time hit!
This recipe is simple to make and easy to follow with the guide below. We've included step-by-step photos and directions, plus pro tips and tricks. Check out the most frequently asked questions and answers for even more help!

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This recipe is quick to make, taking just fifteen minutes from start to finish. With only peanut butter, sugar, and an egg, these gluten-free peanut butter cookies, 3 ingredients, turn out soft and chewy every time. Perfect for any occasion—whether it's a snack, dessert, or party treat—these cookies stand out because they’re simple yet so satisfying. You’ll love how easy they are to whip up, making them a must-try at home!
Ingredients

What you'll need to make this 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookie recipe:
- 1 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup of light brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your 3 ingredient cookies by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your cookies uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions.
Substitute Egg: Use a flax egg as a vegan alternative to keep your cookies egg-free.
Instead of Peanut Butter: Use almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option in your cookies.
Substitute Sugar: Swap white sugar with brown sugar or coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in chocolate chips to add a rich, sweet twist to your peanut butter cookies.
Add Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract enhances the sweetness and flavor of your cookies.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and the tips and tricks listed below. Let’s get started making these delicious cookies! You’ll love how easy this recipe is to whip up in no time.
Pro Tip
You can make the cookie dough and freeze it for baking later. Pop a handful of dough balls in the oven when a craving strikes, and you’ll always have a sweet treat on hand.
FIRST STEP: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking/cookie sheet with parchment paper.
SECOND STEP: Add the peanut butter and sugar to a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until creamy, about two minutes.
Pro Tip
The cookie dough will also come together fairly easily if you want to mix it by hand rather than using an electric mixer.

THIRD STEP: Add in egg, then beat on low until just combined.

FOURTH STEP: Using a cookie scoop, scoop out tablespoon-sized cookie dough balls onto the parchment paper-lined baking sheet.

FIFTH STEP: Grease a fork and press down on each cookie ball twice, creating a crisscross pattern.

SIXTH STEP: Bake cookies in the preheated oven for seven minutes, or until the edges are just starting to brown. Remove from the oven, allow the cookies to cool on the pan for one to two minutes, then move them to a wire rack.
Pro Tip
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your cookies as the suggested baking time approaches.

SEVENTH STEP: Enjoy the delicious cookies warm, or store the cooled cookies in an airtight container.
How To Serve 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
This peanut butter cookie recipe is perfect for any occasion! Whether it’s a party, holiday, or a simple family treat, everyone will love them. Here’s how you can serve these cookies.
Birthday Parties: These cookies are kid-approved and make a sweet addition to any birthday party spread. Pair them with chocolate milkshakes or cupcakes for a dessert table that everyone will enjoy.
Holiday Gatherings: Serve these cookies during the holidays for a quick and easy treat. Add them to a dessert platter alongside fudge or brownies for an irresistible spread that guests will love.
After-School Snacks: Kids will rush home for these peanut butter cookies after school. Serve them with apple slices and a glass of cold milk for a simple, satisfying snack.

Why You'll Love This 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are a beloved favorite for several mouthwatering reasons:
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just peanut butter, sugar, and an egg, this recipe delivers a rich, nutty flavor that readers adore. The simplicity makes it perfect for any skill level, ensuring delicious results every time.
Perfect Texture Every Time: These cookies come out soft, chewy, and slightly crisp around the edges, offering that ideal peanut butter cookie texture. Every bite melts in your mouth, making them a hit with both kids and adults.
Quick and Convenient: Ready in just fifteen minutes, these cookies are great when you’re short on time but craving something sweet. Readers love how fast and easy they are to whip up for any occasion.
These peanut butter cookies aren't just a treat—they’re a timeless favorite that always delivers on taste and convenience!

Recipe FAQ
Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but stir it well to prevent oily or crumbly cookies.
Do I need to chill the dough before baking?
No, you don't need to chill the dough. The cookies will bake perfectly without any extra preparation.
Why are my cookies crumbly?
If your cookies turn out crumbly, it could be due to over baking or using too much sugar. Adjust your measurements slightly.
How long should I bake these cookies?
Bake the cookies for ten to twelve minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on them, and remove them when golden brown.

Serving FAQ
Can I serve these cookies warm or at room temperature?
You can serve them either warm or at room temperature. Both options offer deliciously chewy peanut butter goodness.
Are these cookies good for party platters?
Yes, these cookies are perfect for party platters! Their small size and simple ingredients make them crowd-pleasers.
Can I serve these cookies as a dessert for special occasions?
Absolutely! These cookies are great for birthdays, holidays, or any special gathering where easy, homemade treats are welcome.
Should I serve these cookies with any special toppings?
Although these cookies are delicious on their own, you can add powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate before serving.

Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for the best storage, making ahead, and reheating of these 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies. Whether you're planning ahead or saving leftovers, we've got you covered!
Can I make 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to three days.
Can I freeze 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies?
Yes, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
How should I reheat these cookies?
You can reheat the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, but they're also delicious at room temperature!

3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
DIRECTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Add the peanut butter and brown sugar to a large mixing bowl and beat on medium-high speed until creamy, about 2 minutes.
- Add in the egg, and beat on low until just combined.
- Using a cookie scoop, scoop out tablespoon-sized balls onto the prepared pan.
- Grease a fork and press down on each cookie ball twice, creating a crisscross design.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 7 minutes or until the edges are just starting to brown. Remove from the oven, allow to cool on the pan for 1 to 2 minutes, then move the cookies to a cooling rack.
- Enjoy them warm, or store them in an airtight container once cooled.
Notes
- You can make the cookie dough and freeze it for baking later. Pop a handful of dough balls in the oven when a craving strikes, and you’ll always have a sweet treat on hand.
- The cookie dough will also come together fairly easily if you want to mix it by hand rather than using an electric mixer.
- Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your cookies as the suggested baking time approaches.






Comments
Tina says
Making these sugar free for my husband using Splenda brown sugar blend, sugar free peanut butter, and an egg. Perfect!!!!!