Simple Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe (Only 4 Ingredients!)

Peanut butter cookie recipe has been a childhood favorite of mine for as long as I can remember. Ever since I was a little kid, delighting in the simple pleasures of baking with my mom, this treat has held a soft spot. Now, whenever cravings for childhood comforts hit, I know just the recipe to turn to.

Recently though, as I’ve been putting more of an emphasis on health and wellness. I wanted to see if I could alter my beloved cookie recipe to make it a little more nutritious, without compromising the delicious flavors I loved so much. And so the experimentation began!

so, whether you grew up with the classic combo of Jif and Quaker Oats, or have fond memories of childhood sleepovers fueled by Trader Joe’s crunchy peanut butter biscuits, come with me as I will be showing you the right recipes for my nutritious peanut butter cookies.

I’ll walk you through making these cookies from start to finish, from mixing to baking. I’ll also break down the improved nutrition stats. So, let’s get started!

Ready? Let’s go!

Table of Contents

Basic Ingredients in Making Peanut Butter Cookie

Flour: All-purpose flour.
Egg: Large.
Peanut butter: I prefer to use crunchy peanut butter for peanut butter cookies, but you can use smooth if you prefer. I also recommend using a natural peanut butter without added sugar or salt.
Butter: I prefer to use unsalted butter in my baking, so I can control the amount of salt in the recipe.
Sugars: I like to use a combination of brown and granulated sugar in my peanut butter cookies. The brown sugar gives the cookies a richer flavor and a chewier texture.
Vanilla extract: I recommend using pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Leavening agents: I use both baking soda and baking powder in my peanut butter cookie recipe. This helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cookie

Firstly, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

peanut butter cookie recipe/Lifestyle Metro — Image source – Canva

In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and mix well until smooth and thoroughly incorporated.

Egg added in flour and peanut/Lifestyle Metro — Image source – Canva

Next, add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until all ingredients are fully combined.

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the baking soda and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the peanut butter mixture, stirring continuously until a thick dough forms.

Dough and crisscross pattern/Lifestyle Metro — Image source – Canva

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough and roll it into small balls. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them for spreading.

To add an extra touch, use a fork to create a crisscross pattern on each cookie, gently pressing them down.

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

freshly baked cookie/Lifestyle Metro — Image source – Canva

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to set. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for this recipe

For chewier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
For crispier cookies, bake for a few minutes longer.
Feel free to add other mix-ins to your cookies, such as chocolate chips, dried fruit, Reese’s Pieces, M&M’s or nuts.
Serve the cookies warm with a scoop of ice cream or a glass of milk.
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Nutritional value of homemade peanut butter cookies

Homemade peanut butter cookies are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. They also contain a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, niacin, and magnesium.

Here is a breakdown of the nutritional value of a medium-sized homemade peanut butter cookie (about 3 inches in diameter):

Calories: 145
Total fat: 7.8g
Saturated fat: 3.4g
Trans fat: 0.2g
Polyunsaturated fat: 1.1g
Monounsaturated fat: 2.7g
Cholesterol: 21mg
Sodium: 128mg
Total carbohydrates: 17g
Dietary fiber: 0.7g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 2.6g

Vitamins and minerals:

Vitamin E: 10% of the daily recommended value (DV)
Niacin: 10% of the DV
Magnesium: 5% of the DV
Phosphorus: 5% of the DV
Zinc: 2% of the DV
Copper: 2% of the DV

It is important to note that peanut butter cookies are also a high-calorie food. Eating too many peanut butter cookies can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. However, in moderation, peanut butter cookies can be a part of a healthy diet.

Here are some tips for enjoying peanut butter cookies in a healthy way:

Make your own peanut butter cookies at home so that you can control the ingredients.
Use healthy fats, such as peanut butter and butter, in your cookies.
Reduce the amount of sugar in your cookies.
Add mix-ins, such as nuts, seeds, or dried fruit, to your cookies for added nutrients.
Enjoy peanut butter cookies in moderation as part of a balanced diet

How many calories is a homemade peanut butter cookie?

A homemade peanut butter cookie normally contains around 150-180 calories per serving. The exact calorie count can vary depending on the size and specific ingredients used in the recipe.

What are the ingredients in peanut butter?

Peanut butter usually contains roasted peanuts as the main ingredient. It may also include oil, such as vegetable or peanut oil, for a smooth texture. Some varieties may contain optional sweeteners like sugar or honey, and salt may be added for flavor.

Why is oil added to peanut butter?

Oil enhances peanut butter by improving its texture, spreadability, and moisture content. It distributes natural oils evenly for a richer flavor. Overall, oil makes peanut butter smoother, prevents dryness, and amplifies its taste, enhancing its versatility and enjoyment.

4 Ingredients for Peanut Butter Cookie

Some days you just need a quick and easy cookie recipe to satisfy your sweet tooth. Try 4-ingredient peanut butter cookie recipe! With only a handful of buttery essential, you can have a batch ready in under 30 minutes.

What you’ll need:

1 cup peanut butter
1 egg
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix the peanut butter and sugar together with a wooden spoon until well combined. The peanut butter will help “cream” the sugar.
Crack in the egg and mix until a dough forms. It will be quite thick but should clean the sides of the bowl.
Finally, stir in the baking soda until just absorbed. The reaction with the peanut butter and egg will cause it to puff up slightly once baked.
Roll the dough into balls, about 1 1/2 tablespoons each. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are just set but still soft in the center. Allow to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before enjoying later.

No need for any fancy additions. The simplicity lets the yummy flavors shine. Whether as an afternoon snack or camping provision, these cookies are sure to become a new fast favorite!

Some tips for making the best 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies

Use creamy peanut butter for the best results. Crunchy peanut butter can also be used, but the cookies will be less smooth and more crumbly.
If you are using natural peanut butter, be sure to stir it well before using. Natural peanut butter can separate, so it is important to distribute the oil evenly throughout the jar.
Don’t overmix the dough. Overmixing can make the cookies tough.
Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies hold their shape and prevent them from spreading too much.
Bake the cookies until the edges are golden brown. The center of the cookies will still be soft when they come out of the oven, but they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Wrap Up

Simple yet satisfying, a homemade peanut butter cookie is a classic treat. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can mix up a batch in minutes. My go-to recipe offers rich peanutty flavor balanced by the right ratio of sugar, eggs and baking soda. While each cookie provides 230 calories of satisfaction, the protein and fat content keep you fuller longer between meals. Best eaten warm from the oven, the house will surely smell like home whenever you bake a fresh batch. So go ahead, pull out the peanut butter and sugar to make this from scratch dessert that’s worth every calorie and bite of enjoyment.

Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe FAQs

What healthy ingredients are in peanut butter?

Peanut butter contains healthy fats and proteins when consumed in moderation. It provides monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that support heart health. Peanut butter also supplies plant-based protein that contributes to muscle maintenance. Small amounts offer nutrients like niacin, magnesium, and fiber that support digestive and immune function.

What are 3 benefits of eating peanut butter?

There are several benefits to eating peanut butter in moderation. It provides satiating protein and healthy fats to keep you feeling full. Peanut butter offers important nutrients like fiber, magnesium, and vitamin E. Eating 2 tablespoons also gives your body energy sustaining protein and heart-healthy monounsaturated fat.

Can a diabetic eat peanut butter?

Peanut butter can fit into a diabetic diet in moderation. It provides protein and healthy fats to slow digestion. Choosing natural peanut butter without added sugars helps blood sugar control. Pairing with fiber-rich foods balances the natural sugars. Portion size is key around 2 tablespoons per sitting to fit into meal plans. So yes, when eaten as part of an overall healthy lifestyle, diabetics can include peanut butter. As always, check with your medical provider for personalized nutrition guidelines.