Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Imagine biting into a warm, thick peanut butter cookie—crispy on the edges, soft and chewy in the center, with a deep, nutty flavor that lingers on your taste buds in the best possible way. These cookies are the kind that make you close your eyes after the first bite and whisper, “Oh, wow.” They’re everything a peanut butter lover dreams of: rich, comforting, and impossibly satisfying.

I first made this recipe on a chilly Sunday afternoon when all I wanted was something nostalgic and comforting. I didn’t want to wait hours or fuss with complicated steps—I just needed something sweet, warm, and homemade. What I got was so much more: a no-chill, no-mixer cookie that delivers bakery-quality results in under 30 minutes.

Whether you're baking for a holiday tray, a cozy night in, or simply need a peanut butter fix, these thick and chewy peanut butter cookies will never let you down.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Chewy Texture

One of the standout features of these cookies is their irresistible texture. You get the best of both worlds: a lightly crisp exterior that gives way to a soft, chewy, melt-in-your-mouth center. This contrast is exactly what makes each bite feel so indulgent.

The secret? A higher ratio of brown sugar to white sugar brings extra moisture and chewiness, while just the right bake time ensures the centers stay soft. Don’t be alarmed if they look slightly underbaked when they come out—they’ll firm up perfectly as they cool, locking in that gooey richness.

Simple Ingredients

There’s nothing fancy or fussy here—just good old pantry staples that come together to create cookie magic. You probably have everything you need already:

• All-purpose flour

• Baking soda & baking powder

• Salt

• Butter (unsalted)

• Creamy peanut butter

• Brown sugar & granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

No hard-to-find specialty items, no complicated steps. Just a straightforward recipe that lets the flavor shine.

Easy to Prepare

This is the kind of recipe that works for anyone, any time—even if you're brand-new to baking. You don’t need a mixer, a stand-up paddle, or a block of time carved out in your day. Just one large bowl, a sturdy spoon, and about 10 minutes of prep time.

Even better? There’s no chilling required. That means you can go from craving to cookie in less than 30 minutes. Perfect for when you need a fast fix or want to whip up a last-minute treat for guests (or yourself—we’re not judging).

Customizable for Any Occasion

While the base recipe is already delicious, there’s so much room for creativity here:

• Add-ins: Toss in chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, chopped peanuts, or even pretzels for a sweet-salty twist.

• Shapes & Sizes: Use a smaller scoop for bite-sized cookies, or go big with bakery-style jumbo cookies.

• Sandwich them: Slather a bit of Nutella, peanut butter, or marshmallow fluff between two cookies for an extra decadent dessert.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Each one plays a key role in making these thick and chewy peanut butter cookies perfectly rich and satisfying:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure and helps keep the cookies thick and substantial.

• 1 teaspoon baking soda + ½ teaspoon baking powder – The combo gives the cookies just the right lift and chew.

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds moisture and richness for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter – The star of the show—brings nutty flavor and dense, chewy body.

• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed – Gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness and contributes to chewiness.

• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Balances sweetness and helps the edges crisp up just slightly.

• 2 large eggs – Bind everything together and help create that soft, rich interior.

• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances and rounds out the peanut butter flavor.

• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances all other flavors.

• ½ cup peanut butter chips (optional) – For extra bursts of peanut butter in every bite.

With just these ingredients, you're only a few steps away from homemade cookie bliss!

How to Make Thick and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Step-by-Step Instructions

These cookies are as easy to make as they are satisfying to eat. Here's a simple, no-stress guide to get perfect results every time:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even baking.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. This step helps create that soft, rich texture we all love.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Then stir in the vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until everything is combined—no need to overmix.

6. If you’re using peanut butter chips (and we highly recommend it!), fold them in now for that extra peanutty punch.

7. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, scoop dough into 2-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.

8. Press gently on each ball with a fork in a crisscross pattern. It not only gives them a classic look but helps them bake evenly.

9. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The edges should look golden, but the centers will still appear soft—that’s exactly what you want.

10. Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set without overbaking.

In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a batch of irresistibly warm, thick, and chewy peanut butter cookies that are ready to impress.

What to Serve with These Cookies

Suggested Pairings

Whether you’re enjoying one warm out of the oven or sneaking a second (or third!) later in the day, these cookies pair perfectly with:

• A glass of cold milk – The ultimate classic combo.

• A mug of hot coffee or cocoa – Perfect for cozy evenings.

• A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream – Turn your cookies into a decadent sandwich dessert.

• A peanut butter milkshake – For the true peanut butter lovers out there!

Variations and Substitutions

Cookies are meant to be fun—and this recipe is wonderfully flexible, whether you’re working around dietary needs or just in the mood for something a little different. Here are some tasty ways to switch things up:

Nut-Free Option

If you're baking for someone with a nut allergy, don't worry—you can still enjoy that rich, creamy texture without using peanut butter. Simply substitute with:

• Sunflower seed butter or

• Soy nut butter

These alternatives maintain the soft texture and warm flavor, while keeping the recipe allergen-friendly.

Extra Chocolatey

Peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in dessert heaven. For a more indulgent twist:

• Add ½ cup chocolate chips or chocolate chunks to the dough

• Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies

• Or go all-in and sandwich two cookies with a layer of ganache in between

Gluten-Free Version

Want to keep things gluten-free? You absolutely can:

• Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking

• For a lower-carb take, you can try using almond flour—just note that it may result in a slightly softer cookie with a nuttier flavor

Storage Instructions

These cookies are just as good the next day (and the day after), so go ahead and make a full batch. Here’s how to keep them fresh and chewy:

Room Temperature

• Store the cookies in an airtight container

• Keep them at room temperature for up to 5 days

• Place a slice of bread inside the container to help retain moisture

Refrigeration Tips

• For slightly longer storage, place cookies in a sealed container or zip-top bag

• They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 10 days

• Allow them to come to room temperature before serving to restore that soft texture

Freezing Instructions

Want to bake ahead or save some for later? Freezing is a great option:

• To freeze the dough: scoop into balls, place on a tray to flash-freeze, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months

• To freeze baked cookies: wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and freeze for up to 1 month

• To enjoy later, thaw at room temp, or microwave for 15–20 seconds for that fresh-baked warmth

Recipe Tips and Tricks

For the very best results every time, here are a few pro tips to keep in mind:

• Use room-temperature butter and eggs – they blend more easily for a smoother dough

• Don’t overmix – this helps keep your cookies tender, not tough

• Chill the dough for 10–15 minutes if you want even thicker cookies

• Always use parchment paper – it prevents overspreading and makes cleanup a breeze

• Use a cookie scoop – it ensures consistent sizes, so all cookies bake evenly

Related Recipes

If you loved these thick and chewy peanut butter cookies, you might also enjoy:

• Easy Peanut Butter Balls – Bite-sized, no-bake PB goodness.

• Reese’s Peanut Butter Banana Bread – A moist loaf packed with chocolate and peanut butter flavor.

• Classic Christmas Chocolate Chip Cookies – Crispy, chewy, and festive favorites.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter?

Yes! Just reduce the added salt in the recipe to ¼ teaspoon to keep the flavor balanced.

Can I make these without brown sugar?

You can, but the texture may change. Try substituting with honey or add an extra egg yolk to keep them moist and chewy.

How do I make them thicker?

Chill the dough for 15 minutes before baking, or add an extra 1–2 tablespoons of flour.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to bake in batches and rotate your pans if using multiple oven racks.

Conclusion

These thick and chewy peanut butter cookies are everything a homemade treat should be—soft, rich, full of flavor, and blissfully easy to make. Whether you keep them classic or throw in your own twist, you’ll end up with a cookie that’s impossible to resist.

So go ahead—grab your mixing bowl, preheat that oven, and let the deliciousness begin. 💛

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