Peanut Butter Cookies

The perfect dessert for sweet lovers: Peanut Butter Cookies

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 15 cookies

Who doesn’t love a quick and delicious dessert, especially when it comes to peanut butter cookies? These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday, a gathering with friends, or simply a sweet snack for yourself. With a crispy exterior and a soft, crumbly interior, these cookies manage to bring a touch of joy in every bite.

The history of peanut butter cookies is deep, with roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Peanut butter, a versatile ingredient, has become popular worldwide, adding its flavor and nutrients to various recipes. These cookies are a wonderful way to harness the rich flavor of peanut butter, and the recipe is so simple that even the most inexperienced cooks can try it.

Let’s see together how we can prepare these delicious cookies!

Ingredients:

210 g flour
200 g peanut butter
100 g butter (soft)
200 g sugar
1 egg
5 g baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda

Preparation method:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Ensure that the butter is soft by leaving it at room temperature for about an hour. This will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients. Also, take the egg out of the fridge a few minutes before you start preparing.

2. Mixing the composition: In a large bowl, add the soft butter and peanut butter. Use an electric mixer to combine them well until you achieve a smooth and fluffy cream. This step is essential to ensure an even texture of the cookies.

3. Add the sugar: Continue mixing and gradually add the sugar. Mix until the sugar is completely incorporated into the mixture, creating a sweet and creamy base.

4. Incorporate the egg: Add the egg and mix again until everything is well homogenized. The egg will help bind the ingredients and contribute to the moisture of the cookies.

5. Combining the dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and baking soda. These ingredients will add volume and help the cookies rise during baking. Add the dry ingredients mixture to the bowl with the peanut butter cream.

6. Final mixing: Use the mixer on low speed to combine the dry ingredients with the wet ones. Mix until you achieve a homogeneous composition. Avoid overmixing, as the cookies will become tough.

7. Forming the cookies: Preheat the oven to 175°C. Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, form balls from the dough and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. I recommend making them the size of a golf ball, but you can adjust the size according to your preferences.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 15 minutes. In the end, the cookies will be slightly browned at the edges but still soft in the center. Let them cool on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool completely.

9. Serving: These peanut butter cookies are delicious served warm, but you can keep them in an airtight container for a few days. You can pair them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of flavored coffee, and your friends will be delighted!

Tips and tricks:

- If you want to add a chocolate note, you can incorporate chocolate chunks or chocolate chips into the dough. Combining peanut butter with chocolate is a classic and extremely delicious choice.

- You can experiment with different types of peanut butter, such as crunchy or natural, depending on your preferences. Crunchy peanut butter will add an interesting texture to the cookies.

- If you don’t have baking soda, you can replace it with baking powder. However, you will need to adjust the amount of sugar, as baking soda helps balance the sweetness.

Nutritional benefits:

These cookies are an excellent source of protein and healthy fats due to the peanut butter. Additionally, peanut butter contains essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium. However, it is important to consume them in moderation, as they have a moderate calorie content. A serving of cookies (about 2-3 pieces) contains approximately 150-200 calories.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the final texture and taste may change.

2. How long can I keep the cookies?
These cookies can be kept in an airtight container for up to a week. You can also freeze them to keep them longer.

3. Can I use alternative sweeteners?
Of course! You can replace sugar with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, but you will need to adjust the quantities and texture of the dough.

4. What other recipes can I try with peanut butter?
I recommend trying to make peanut butter brownies or peanut butter pancakes, which are just as delicious and easy to prepare.

I hope you enjoy making these peanut butter cookies as much as I do! Don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family because cooking is always more enjoyable when shared with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!