How to Make 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies — Easy Step-by-Step Guide

Discover how to make incredibly easy and delicious peanut butter cookies with just three simple ingredients. Perfect for a quick, screen-free baking session with the family!

Beginner25 min10 steps
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Finished 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies craft project
3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies held in hand
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Quick answer

To make 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies, you need 1 cup peanut butter, 1 cup sugar, and 1 egg, taking about 20 minutes. Start by mixing the ingredients. This beginner-friendly activity has 8 steps and is perfect for families with kids aged 6+.

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What you need

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Some mess — cover your table

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

  2. 2

    In a medium mixing bowl, add the 1 cup of creamy peanut butter.

  3. 3

    Add the 1 cup of granulated sugar to the bowl with the peanut butter.

  4. 4

    Crack the 1 large egg into the bowl.

  5. 5

    Using a sturdy spoon or spatula, mix all three ingredients together until well combined and a dough forms.

  6. 6

    Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

  7. 7

    Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.

  8. 8

    Using a fork, gently press down on each cookie ball to create a criss-cross pattern. This also helps them bake evenly.

  9. 9

    Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown and the centers look set.

  10. 10

    Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Tips & Troubleshooting

  • 1For softer cookies, bake for a minute or two less. For crispier cookies, bake a minute or two longer.
  • 2You can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor, though it will make it a 4-ingredient recipe.
  • 3If your peanut butter is very stiff, you can warm it slightly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make it easier to mix.
  • 4Ensure your oven temperature is accurate. An oven thermometer can be helpful for consistent results.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crunchy peanut butter for these 3-ingredient cookies?

Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter! It will add a nice texture to your cookies. Just ensure it's well-mixed with the sugar and egg.

What if my cookie dough is too dry or too sticky?

If the dough is too dry, add a tiny bit more peanut butter (about a teaspoon at a time). If it's too sticky, add a little more sugar.

How long do these 3-ingredient peanut butter cookies last?

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. They might become slightly softer over time.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

To make these vegan, you'll need to substitute the egg. A common substitute is a 'flax egg' (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer.

easy baking recipes3 ingredientspeanut butter cookieskid-friendly bakingquick cookiesscreen-free activitiesfamily bakingsimple recipes

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