A soft, chewy peanut butter cookie with a rich, nutty flavor, inspired by the peanut-growing heart of Georgia!
Ingredients:
✅ For the cookies:
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar (or ½ cup brown sugar + ½ cup granulated sugar)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
✅ For extra flavor (optional):
- ½ cup chopped peanuts (for extra crunch)
- ½ cup chocolate chips or peanut butter chips
Instructions:
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2️⃣ Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
3️⃣ Add the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- If using, fold in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips.
4️⃣ Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Use a fork to create the classic crisscross pattern on each cookie.
5️⃣ Bake:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
6️⃣ Enjoy!
- Serve warm with a glass of cold milk or sweet tea.
Southern Tips & Variations:
🥜 Crunchy Style: Use chunky peanut butter and extra chopped peanuts.
🍫 Chocolate Lovers: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate on top.
🌿 Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour or a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.