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A stack of thick, golden brown peanut butter cookies with traditional fork criss-cross marks on a cooling rack.
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Thick Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies

Prep Time45 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings: 24 servings
Calories: 195kcal

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter (processed brand recommended for stability)
  • 3/4 cup (150g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated white sugar
  • 1 large egg , room temperature
  • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Instructions

  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
  • Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium-high speed for 3 minutes until light and aerated.
  • Add the peanut butter to the creamed mixture and beat for 1 minute until smooth and fully incorporated.
  • Reduce mixer speed to low and add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined; scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on the lowest speed only until no flour streaks remain.
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 to 60 minutes to solidify the fats and prevent excessive spreading.
  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  • Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the chilled dough into balls (approximately 40g each) and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared sheets.
  • Using a fork dipped in sugar or water, gently press a criss-cross pattern into the top of each dough ball to flatten slightly to about 3/4-inch thickness.
  • Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are just set and lightly golden, while the centers still appear slightly soft and underbaked.
  • Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 10 minutes to finish setting before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.