Easy 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
These cookies are the perfect combination of soft, chewy, and slightly crisp on the edges. They are naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and require no flour, butter, or eggs—just three simple ingredients that come together effortlessly. Whether you’re craving a quick snack or need a last-minute dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Super Easy – Only 3 ingredients and no special equipment needed!
✔ Naturally Gluten-Free – No flour or refined sugars required.
✔ Soft & Chewy – A perfect texture with a slight crisp on the edges.
✔ Customizable – Add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate.
✔ Quick to Make – Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish!
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Ingredients
To make these delicious peanut butter cookies, you will need:
1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy, as per your preference)
1/3 cup maple syrup (or honey, for a slightly different sweetness)
1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended for extra indulgence!)
💡 Tip: If using natural peanut butter, make sure to stir it well before measuring, as the oil tends to separate.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and maple syrup. Use a spoon or spatula to mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the dough becomes thick and smooth. If you’re adding chocolate chips, fold them in gently to distribute them evenly.
💡 Tip: If the dough seems too soft or sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 10 minutes before shaping the cookies. This helps firm up the dough, making it easier to work with.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each portion into a small ball (about the size of a walnut) and place it onto the prepared baking sheet. Be sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for slight spreading.
💡 Tip: If you want a classic peanut butter cookie look, use a fork to press a crisscross pattern into the top of each dough ball before baking.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. The cookies should look slightly golden on the edges but still be soft in the center.
⚠ Important: The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake them! If they look slightly undercooked in the middle when you take them out, that’s perfect.
Step 5: Cool & Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them firm up while staying chewy inside.
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Storage & Freezing Instructions
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days at room temperature.
Refrigerator: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.
Freezer: These cookies freeze beautifully! Store them in a ziplock bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.
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Recipe Variations & Customizations
⭐ Nut-Free Option: Swap peanut butter for almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a similar texture.
⭐ Extra Crunch: Stir in chopped peanuts, almonds, or pecans for a nutty bite.
⭐ Chocolate Lovers’ Version: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an extra indulgent treat.
⭐ Sweeter Option: If you love extra sweetness, add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
⭐ Salted Peanut Butter Cookies: Sprinkle a bit of sea salt on top of each cookie before baking for a delicious sweet-salty contrast.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
Yes! Honey works as a perfect substitute for maple syrup, though it will make the cookies slightly chewier and denser.
2. What kind of peanut butter is best?
You can use either smooth or crunchy peanut butter. Natural peanut butter works great, but make sure to stir it well before using to prevent excessive oiliness.
3. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and follow the same instructions.
4. Why are my cookies too soft?
If your cookies feel too soft, they might need a bit more cooling time. Let them sit for a few extra minutes before moving them from the baking sheet.
5. Can I make these cookies keto-friendly?
Yes! Substitute maple syrup with a sugar-free syrup and use sugar-free chocolate chips for a low-carb version.
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Final Thoughts
These 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are proof that simple ingredients can create amazing flavors! Whether you’re making them for yourself, your family, or as a quick treat for guests, they are guaranteed to be a hit.
Enj
oy your cookies with a glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even as a quick energy boost during the day. Happy baking!
