Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Crispy and soft – A perfect balance of texture.
-
Peanut butter flavor – The star ingredient shines in every bite.
-
Quick and easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
-
Classic – Reminiscent of the peanut butter cookies from school cafeterias.
-
Customizable – Use crunchy or creamy peanut butter depending on your preference.
-
Perfect for any occasion – Whether for an after-school treat or a special dessert, they’re a hit every time.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
Creamy peanut butter
-
Salted butter (or unsalted with a pinch of salt)
-
Granulated sugar
-
Brown sugar
-
Eggs
-
Vanilla extract
-
All-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
-
Baking soda
Directions
-
Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, blend peanut butter and butter using an electric mixer until smooth.
-
Add sugars: Mix in granulated and brown sugars until combined.
-
Add eggs and vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in vanilla extract.
-
Combine dry ingredients: Whisk flour and baking soda in a separate bowl, then slowly add to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
-
Shape and bake: Use a cookie scoop to portion out dough and form balls. Flatten each ball with a fork, creating the traditional crosshatch pattern. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden.
-
Cool: Let cool on a wire rack.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 18-20 cookies
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 20-25 minutes
Variations
-
Crunchy Version: Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture.
-
Chocolate Chips: Add some chocolate chips to the dough for a twist.
-
Sweetener Swap: Use your preferred sugar alternative for a low-sugar option.
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.
FAQs
Can I use unsalted butter?
Yes, just add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make them gluten-free.
How do I make the cookies extra chewy?
Don’t overbake them. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, freeze dough balls and bake them directly from the freezer.
How do I make the perfect fork marks?
Press the dough balls gently with a fork in both directions to create the classic crosshatch pattern.
Conclusion
These Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies are easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them crunchy or soft, they’re sure to be a favorite!

Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: 20–25 minutes
- Yield: 18–20 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Old-Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies are the perfect balance of crispy and soft with a rich peanut butter flavor. With a crumbly texture and the iconic fork prong lattice on top, these cookies are just like the ones your grandma used to make. Quick, easy, and packed with nostalgic flavor, they’re perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
-
1 cup creamy peanut butter
-
1/2 cup salted butter (or unsalted with a pinch of salt)
-
1/2 cup granulated sugar
-
1/2 cup brown sugar
-
1 large egg
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 tsp baking soda
Instructions
-
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, blend peanut butter and butter with an electric mixer until smooth.
-
Add Sugars: Mix in granulated and brown sugars until fully combined.
-
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in vanilla extract.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda, then slowly add to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
-
Shape and Bake: Use a cookie scoop to portion out dough and roll into balls. Flatten each ball with a fork to create the traditional crosshatch pattern. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.
-
Cool: Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack.
Notes
Crunchy Version: Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture.Chocolate Twist: Add chocolate chips or peanut butter chips to the dough for added sweetness.Low-Sugar Option: Substitute with your preferred sugar alternative like monk fruit or stevia for a healthier option.