There’s something incredibly nostalgic about baking cookies, especially when they are as simple and delightful as 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies. I still remember the first time I made these treats in my tiny kitchen, just me and my trusty mixing bowl. It was a rainy afternoon, and I craved something sweet without wanting to venture out for extravagant ingredients. That’s when I stumbled upon this recipe that only required four key items I already had on hand. The warm aroma of peanut butter filled the air as I mixed everything together, creating a moment that felt timeless. These cookies are not just about their minimal ingredients; they represent a heartfelt connection to the joy of baking and the comfort of homemade goodies. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy a sweet tooth, these cookies hit all the right notes.
Recipe Snapshot
60 mins
0 mins
0 mins
Medium
100 kcal
3 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
7 g
Frying Pan, Baking Sheet, Oven
What You’ll Enjoy About This 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Quick and Easy
Anyone can whip up 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies in no time! With just four items, you can have freshly baked cookies in your hands within minutes.
Perfect for All Occasions
These cookies are perfect for any situation, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a birthday party. Their simplicity and delicious flavor make them universally loved.
Nutritious Ingredients
The ingredients in these cookies are relatively healthy. You get a good dose of protein from the peanut butter, and using coconut sugar adds a natural sweetness without processed sugars.
Kid-Friendly Activity
Making these cookies is a fun activity to do with kids! Let them mix, shape, and flatten the dough. It’s a great way to teach them about cooking while bonding.
Versatile Options
Although the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can easily add in extras like chocolate chips or nuts if you’re feeling adventurous. Customize them to your taste!
Storage and Longevity
These cookies store well at room temperature for days and can also be frozen for even longer enjoyment. You can always have a treat on hand!
Essential Ingredients for 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
The beauty of these cookies lies in their simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and flavor. The peanut butter provides richness and moisture, while the coconut sugar gives a hint of caramel-like sweetness. The egg acts as a binding agent, holding everything together, and the baking soda helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them a delightful softness.
- 1 cup peanut butter: This creamy delight is the star of the show, bringing rich flavors and texture.
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar: A natural sweetener that adds depth and a hint of caramel to the cookies.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a chewy cookie.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: This ingredient makes the cookies fluffy and light.
4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Instructions
Making 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies is a delightful experience that you can easily enjoy at home. Follow these simple steps to create your very own batch of goodness.
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures that the cookies won’t stick and will bake evenly.
- In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, coconut sugar, egg, and baking soda. Mix them until they are well incorporated. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick.
- Add a pinch of salt if desired. If you’re using unsalted peanut butter, you might want to include between 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon to enhance flavor.
- Drop the cookie dough by the tablespoon onto the lined baking sheet. It’s a good idea to space them out, as they will spread slightly while baking.
- Use a fork to flatten the dough balls in a criss-cross shape. This classic design not only looks appealing but also helps the cookies bake evenly.
- Once all of the cookies have been flattened, place them in the oven and bake for about 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be lightly golden but not overbaked.
- When they’re done, let the cookies cool on the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps them firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. They can be enjoyed at room temperature or placed in the freezer for a firmer texture.
- Store the cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Things Worth Knowing
- Mixing Technique: Ensure that you mix the ingredients until thoroughly combined, as this will affect the texture of the cookies.
- Thickness Matters: The thickness of your cookie dough will impact how chewy or crunchy the final product is.
- Cooling is Key: Letting the cookies cool on the pan ensures they hold their shape better and are easier to transfer.
- Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality peanut butter can significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies.
Substitutions and Tips
Even though this recipe is simple, there are several tips and substitutions to enhance your baking experience. Here are some suggestions:
- Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: You can freeze these cookies! Place them in a freezer-safe container and enjoy them later.
- Pairing: Serve with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful snack.
- Variation: Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture and flavor.
- Texture Control: For a softer cookie, make sure not to overbake them; they should be just set and slightly soft in the middle when taken out.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).
Perfect Matches for 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
When it comes to serving 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies, there are plenty of delightful ways to enjoy them. Here are some great pairings and ideas:
- With Beverages: These cookies pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. The richness of the peanut butter complements the creaminess of the milk wonderfully.
- Snack Time: They make an excellent afternoon snack, providing a quick energy boost that satisfies sweet cravings.
- Lunchbox Treats: Pack them in lunchboxes for kids or as a treat for yourself during a busy workday.
- Outdoor Gatherings: Perfect for picnics or barbeques, these cookies can be enjoyed anywhere and will please everyone.
- Holiday Sharing: These cookies are an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or cookie exchanges, showcasing simplicity and flavor.
- Storage Tip: If you want to prepare ahead for an event, these cookies can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
FAQ
Conclusion
The 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies stand out for their simplicity and delightful taste. They encapsulate the essence of home baking, bringing warmth and joy with every bite. I encourage you to try making these cookies today; they’re sure to become a new favorite in your home. So grab your ingredients and start baking—these cookies are just too good to resist!
4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350ºF and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, coconut sugar, egg, and baking soda. Mix until well incorporated.
- Add a pinch of salt if desired, especially if using unsalted peanut butter.
- Drop the cookie dough by tablespoon onto the lined baking sheet.
- Use a fork to flatten the dough balls in a criss-cross shape.
- Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let cool for 10 minutes on the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookies for later enjoyment.
- Pairing: Serve with milk or coffee for a delightful snack.
- Variation: Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor.
- Texture Control: Avoid overbaking for a soft texture.
