Quick and Easy Recipe: 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

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Welcome to another quick and easy recipe that will satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal ingredients and effort! If you’re a peanut butter lover, you won’t be able to resist these 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies. All you need is peanut butter, sugar, and an egg, and voila – delicious cookies in less than 20 minutes. These cookies are perfect for a lazy afternoon snack or a last-minute dessert for unexpected guests. So, let’s get started with this yummy recipe that’s sure to impress everyone!

History of Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter cookies are a popular dessert recipe usually made with flour, peanut butter, sugar, and eggs. Its origin can be traced back to the 1910s, when peanut butter was becoming increasingly popular as a food spread in the United States. The earliest recorded recipe for peanut butter cookies was published in the Schenectady Gazette, a newspaper in New York, on July 1, 1916. It called for just three ingredients: a cup of peanut butter, a cup of sugar, and one egg.

The emergence of peanut butter cookies as a popular dessert during that time was largely due to the fact that peanut butter was considered a healthy ingredient by many. It was high in protein, which made it a great alternative to meat at a time when the cost of meat was skyrocketing during World War I. The use of peanut butter in desserts also became a way of stretching rationed sugar supplies during the war.

But as time passed, the focus on the health benefits of peanut butter shifted, and the popularity of peanut butter cookies continued to grow. More ingredients were added to the recipe, including flour and baking powder, which made the cookies more dense and crumbly. New variations were also created, such as the addition of chocolate chips, oats, and even jam.

One of the biggest boosts to the popularity of peanut butter cookies came in the 1930s, when the Jif peanut butter brand was launched by the Procter & Gamble company. Jif was marketed as a smoother and creamier peanut butter, which made it easier to use in baking recipes like peanut butter cookies. It also helped that the recipe for peanut butter cookies was often printed on the back of Jif jars, making it easy for home bakers to try out the recipe at home.

Since then, the recipe for peanut butter cookies has been passed down through generations of home bakers, with each one adding their own unique twist to it. Some prefer to make the cookies soft and chewy by using brown sugar and baking soda, while others like them dense and crumbly with a combination of white and brown sugar. Regardless of the variation, peanut butter cookies remain a beloved dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Why Peanut Butter Cookies are so Popular

Peanut butter cookies are one of the most beloved cookies around the world. They are a classic American treat that have made their way into the hearts of people all over the world. Peanut butter cookies are perfect for people of all ages. They are delicious, easy to make and can be customized in various ways. So, what is it about these cookies that make them so popular? Let’s explore.

1. The Flavor

The flavor of peanut butter in a cookie is unmatched. The nutty flavor is both comforting and satisfying. When combined with the right amount of sugar and salt, it creates a perfect balance of sweet and savory. Peanut butter cookies can also be paired with different ingredients like chocolate chips, peanuts, and oatmeal, which help to elevate the flavor.

Additionally, peanut butter is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes, from savory to sweet. This means that peanut butter cookies can be made in various forms, such as chewy, crispy, or soft, which only improves the flavor profile.

2. Nostalgia

Peanut butter cookies hold a special place in the hearts of many people. They are a reminder of childhood memories, of sitting in grandma’s kitchen and waiting to taste her freshly baked peanut butter cookies. The nostalgia associated with these cookies is undoubtedly one of the reasons why they are so popular. They remind us of simpler times and bring back feelings of comfort and happiness.

Peanut butter cookies are also a staple in American culture. They are often associated with school lunches, after-school snacks, and Girl Scout meetings. These memories, along with the delicious flavor of the cookies, contribute to their popularity today.

3. Easy to Make

The peanut butter cookie recipe is simple to follow and requires only a few ingredients. The recipe typically only uses peanut butter, sugar, and an egg. This makes it an easy recipe to follow, even for beginner bakers. The lack of complexity in the recipe is a significant factor in its popularity, as it can be made quickly and with minimal fuss.

The ease of making peanut butter cookies also makes them a great recipe for making with kids. They can help with measuring and mixing, and it won’t take long for them to see the results of their efforts. This can be a fun bonding activity with kids, creating memories that will last long after the cookies are gone.

Conclusion

Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that can bring joy to anyone who tastes them. Their popularity can be attributed to their delicious flavor, nostalgic memories, and simplicity in making them. Peanut butter cookies have been around for decades and will undoubtedly continue to be a timeless favorite. So, why not bake a batch of peanut butter cookies today and see for yourself why they are so popular?

How to Bake the Perfect Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter cookies are an all-time favorite snack for many people across the globe. They are easy to make, chewy, and melt in your mouth. With just three simple ingredients, you can create a delicious batch of peanut butter cookies in no time. Here is a guide on how to bake the perfect peanut butter cookies.

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s take a look at the core ingredients you will need to make peanut butter cookies:

• 1 cup of peanut butter
• 1 cup of granulated sugar
• 1 egg

You can also add a few extra ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies, including vanilla, baking powder, salt, and chocolate chips. However, for this recipe, we will stick to the basic three ingredients.

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to bake the perfect peanut butter cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. In a large mixing bowl, add the peanut butter, sugar, and egg.
3. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until you have a smooth dough. You can use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon and some elbow grease.
4. Next, use a cookie scoop or a tablespoon to get even-sized cookie dough balls and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave enough space between the cookies to allow them to expand during baking. Flatten each cookie with a fork, making a criss-cross pattern on top.
5. Bake the cookies for 10-15 minutes or until they are golden brown. The exact cooking time will depend on your oven and the size of the cookies.
6. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from breaking apart.

And voila, you have a batch of delicious peanut butter cookies ready to devour. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge to keep them fresh. Enjoy them on their own or with a glass of milk, and savor the taste of this classic treat.

Tips and Tricks

To ensure that your peanut butter cookies turn out perfect every time, here are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Use creamy peanut butter instead of chunky peanut butter as it works best for this recipe.
• The dough might be sticky, so it’s a good idea to chill it before forming the balls. You can place it in the fridge for 30 minutes to make it easier to work with.
• Make sure to flatten the cookies with a fork to allow them to bake evenly.
• Don’t overbake the cookies as they will become hard and dry. Keep an eye on them after the first 10 minutes.
• Feel free to add some chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the cookie dough for a flavor twist.

Now that you know how to bake the perfect peanut butter cookies, why not try experimenting with some new ingredients to make them even more delicious? Peanut butter cookies are a versatile treat that you can customize to your liking, so don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen. Happy baking!

Variations on the Classic 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

The classic 3-ingredient peanut butter cookie recipe has been a staple in many households, but did you know that you can easily add a twist to this classic recipe? Here are four variations on the classic 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies that you can try.

1. Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies

Adding chocolate chips to the classic peanut butter cookie recipe is an easy way to take them to the next level. Simply mix a handful of chocolate chips into the cookie dough before baking to create a sweet and salty combination that’s hard to resist.

If you want to take things up a notch, try using dark chocolate chips or adding chopped nuts like almonds or pecans to the mix. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies after they’re baked for an extra indulgent treat.

2. Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies

If you’re a fan of the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich, you’ll love this twist on the classic peanut butter cookie recipe. Instead of just rolling the dough into balls, use your thumb to create an indentation in each cookie before baking. After the cookies are done, fill each indentation with a dollop of your favorite jelly or jam.

You can use any type of jelly or jam you like, from grape to strawberry to raspberry. You can also experiment with different combinations, such as using apricot jam and almond butter for a more adult flavor profile.

3. Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

If you’re looking for a heartier cookie that can double as a breakfast treat, try adding oats to the classic peanut butter cookie recipe. Simply mix some rolled oats into the cookie dough before baking to create a more substantial cookie.

You can also experiment with different types of oats, such as steel-cut oats or quick-cooking oats, to create different textures. If you want to add some extra sweetness, toss in some raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.

4. Peanut Butter and Banana Cookies

If you’re a fan of peanut butter and banana sandwiches, you’ll love this twist on the classic peanut butter cookie recipe. Simply mash one ripe banana and mix it into the cookie dough before baking.

The banana adds a subtle sweetness and a moistness to the cookies that is hard to beat. You can also try adding some cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix to create a more complex flavor profile.

With these variations on the classic 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies, you can easily switch up your baking routine and create new and exciting treats. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and salty or fruity and nutty, there’s a peanut butter cookie variation for everyone.

Serving and Storing Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter cookies are one of the easiest cookies to make as they require just three ingredients. The ingredients are peanut butter, sugar, and an egg. What makes these cookies even better is how simple they are to serve and store. You can enjoy these cookies at any time of the day, and if you want to keep some leftovers, you can store them using a few methods. Let’s explore some of the serving and storing options for peanut butter cookies.

Serving Options

When it comes to serving peanut butter cookies, there are no rules. These cookies are versatile and can be served in many ways. Here are some ideas for serving peanut butter cookies:

1. Warm Peanut Butter Cookies with Ice Cream

You can serve warm peanut butter cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cookies with the cold ice cream make for an excellent contrast in texture and temperature. You can even drizzle some chocolate sauce on top of the cookies and ice cream for that extra oomph.

2. Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches

Take two peanut butter cookies and sandwich them with a layer of your favourite jam or preserve, a dollop of Nutella, or cream cheese frosting. These fun sandwich cookies are a hit with kids and adults alike.

3. Peanut Butter Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Take one peanut butter cookie and sandwich it with a scoop of ice cream. You can use any flavour of ice cream that you like, and you can even roll the edges of the sandwich in chopped nuts or sprinkles for added texture and flavour.

4. Peanut Butter Cookie Crumble

Crumble up peanut butter cookies and sprinkle them over your favourite dessert – cheesecake, mousse, pudding, or a fruit crisp. The crumble adds a sweet and nutty crunch to your dessert.

Storing Options

If you have any leftover peanut butter cookies or want to make a batch ahead of time, there are a few methods you can use to store them.

1. Store in an Airtight Container

You can store your peanut butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. Make sure the container is tightly sealed so that the cookies don’t dry out.

2. Freeze the Cookies

You can also freeze peanut butter cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. If you’re freezing a large batch, you can separate the cookies with wax or parchment paper and stack them on top of each other. Just thaw the cookies at room temperature before serving.

3. Freeze the Cookie Dough

If you want to make peanut butter cookies on-demand, you can prepare the dough and freeze it for up to three months. Form the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough balls for an hour or until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat your oven, place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet, and bake as directed.

There you have it, some serving and storing options for your three-ingredient peanut butter cookies. These cookies are delicious and easy to make, and you can enjoy them in many ways. Whether you serve them warm, cold, or frozen, you can always count on peanut butter cookies to satisfy your sweet tooth.

In conclusion, these delicious 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies are perfect for anyone who wants to satisfy their sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. With only peanut butter, sugar, and one egg, you can have a batch of warm and chewy cookies in no time. Whether you want to enjoy them with a glass of cold milk or share them with your loved ones, these cookies are sure to be a hit. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of homemade cookies!