4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are proof that you don’t need a million ingredients to make something delicious. When you’re craving cookies but don’t want to deal with a complicated recipe, this is your answer!
Check out our super easy Crescent Roll Cinnamon Rolls.
Not gonna lie, these cookies are kinda dangerous. Four ingredients, one bowl, and like 20 minutes later you’ve got a stack of cookies. Simple, easy, and way too good!
What you’ll love about these Easy Peanut Butter Cookies:
- MINIMAL INGREDIENTS – Just 4 pantry staples and you’re done, no specialty items needed.
- LIGHTNING FAST – From start to finish in under 20 minutes when you need cookies NOW.
- FOOLPROOF – So simple there’s almost no way to mess them up, perfect for beginner bakers.
Here’s the Deal:
Every recipe on our site has only 5 ingredients, no exceptions! We don’t count water, salt, or pepper because everyone has those!
Recipe Ingredients for 4 ingredient peanut butter cookies:
You’ll need the following ingredients to make the Best Peanut Butter Cookies:
- Creamy peanut butter
- Sugar
- Large egg
- Vanilla extract
INGREDIENT NOTES:
- Peanut Butter: Use creamy for the best texture – chunky can work but the cookies won’t be as smooth.
- Sugar: Regular granulated sugar gives the perfect sweetness and helps with the chewy texture.
- Egg: Acts as the binder since there’s no flour in this recipe – don’t skip it!
How to make 4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies step-by-step:
*Check out the quick visual guides below. For full instructions and ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the end.
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla until well blended.
Step 3: Scoop tablespoonfuls of dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
Step 4: Flatten the tops gently with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
Step 5: Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
Step 6: Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Pro Tip:
Don’t over bake these – they’ll look underdone when you pull them out, but they’ll finish cooking on the hot pan. They should still be soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
Storage and Reheating:
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Freshness: They’re best eaten within the first 2-3 days for best texture.
Freezing: Cookie dough balls can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes.
Additions & Substitutions for peanut butter cookies:
ADDITIONS:
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
- Mix-ins: Try chopped peanuts, butterscotch chips, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth.
SUBSTITUTIONS:
- Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter works but may make cookies more crumbly.
- Sugar: Brown sugar creates chewier cookies, while white sugar makes them more crispy.
- Egg: For egg-free, try 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water.
FAQs about this Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe:
Why are my cookies falling apart?
Make sure you’re using creamy peanut butter and mixing everything thoroughly. The mixture should hold together when squeezed.
Can I make these bigger or smaller?
Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time: smaller cookies need 6-8 minutes, larger ones need 10-12 minutes.
Are these actually good with only 4 ingredients?
Yes! The peanut butter provides all the flavor and richness you need. Sometimes less really is more.
Can I double the recipe?
Sure, just use two baking sheets or bake in batches. The dough doesn’t need to be used immediately.
What Can I Serve with these Peanut Butter Cookies (gluten free)?
These are perfect with a glass of cold milk or crumbled over vanilla ice cream. They’re also great for dunking in coffee if you’re into that.
We’re excited for you to try this 4 ingredient peanut butter cookies! After you make it, please leave a rating to let me know your thoughts on it – We’re eager to hear if you loved it as much as we do!
4 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla until well blended.
- Scoop tablespoonfuls of dough and roll into balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Flatten the tops gently with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Hi , I love this , so yummy!