Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

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There’s something timeless about a batch of freshly baked Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies. With their golden edges, soft centers, and signature crisscross tops, they bring back sweet memories of school lunches, grandma’s kitchen, and cozy weekend baking. These cookies are simple, classic, and incredibly satisfying—no frills, just rich peanut flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Made with pantry staples and ready in under 30 minutes, these cookies are the perfect quick treat to whip up for unexpected guests, after-dinner cravings, or to fill your cookie jar with love. Whether you like them slightly crisp or a bit chewy, they always hit the spot.

What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

For the best texture and flavor, go with a creamy commercial peanut butter like Jif or Skippy. Natural peanut butters tend to be oilier and can cause the dough to spread too much. That said, if you prefer a heartier texture or a more robust flavor, you can use chunky peanut butter—just expect a little more bite in each cookie.

Ingredients for the Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

• Peanut Butter: The star ingredient, bringing nutty richness and classic flavor.
• Sugar: A mix of white and brown sugar adds the perfect balance of sweetness and chewiness.
• Butter: Unsalted butter gives the cookies their tender texture.
• Egg: Helps bind everything together for that perfect bite.
• All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base structure of the dough.
• Baking Soda: Gives a bit of rise and fluff to the cookies.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter taste.

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How To Make the Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. This creates the perfect base texture.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. The mixture should be light and silky.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Shape and Press

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Use a fork to gently press down and create that iconic crisscross pattern.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. The edges should be lightly golden, and the centers just set.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or store for later!

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Storing and Serving Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies

Once fully cooled, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them soft, tuck a slice of bread into the container—it works wonders! For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their fresh-baked magic.

What to Serve With Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies?

Cold Milk

Because nothing beats the combo of milk and cookies!

Hot Chocolate

A cozy cup brings out the richness of the peanut butter.

Coffee

Great with your morning brew or as an afternoon pick-me-up.

Banana Slices

For a nostalgic Elvis-inspired twist.

Chocolate Ice Cream

Sandwich two cookies around a scoop for a delicious dessert.

Apple Slices

A crisp and refreshing balance to the rich cookie.

Peanut Butter Yogurt Dip

Double the peanut punch with a creamy side.

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Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved these Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies, you’ll want to check out some other unique cookie treats on the blog:

• Banana Bread Cookies for a soft, banana-infused delight.
• Whipped Shortbread Cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Peanut Butter Cream Pie if you’re craving more PB goodness.
• Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies for a toasty twist.
• Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie if you’re in the mood for a fruity, chocolaty dessert.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use chunky or creamy peanut butter? Did you sneak in a sprinkle of sea salt on top?

I love hearing how you put your own spin on these nostalgic treats. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake better.

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