Salted Peanut Butter Cookies: Your New Go-To for Sweet & Salty Bliss in Just 12 Easy Bites!

Craving a cookie that hits all the right notes? Look no further than these incredible Salted Peanut Butter Cookies! They’re the perfect blend of nutty sweetness with a delightful kiss of sea salt, creating an irresistible treat that’s both classic and modern. Forget about dry, bland cookies – these bites are chewy, rich, and utterly satisfying. While many cherish the nostalgic crunch of Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies, our salted version offers a sophisticated twist that elevates the familiar flavor profile to new heights. Get ready to bake a batch of pure joy!

What You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients before you begin is key to a smooth baking process. This recipe uses common pantry staples to create truly exceptional cookies that balance rich peanut butter flavor with a touch of salty sophistication.

• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups (150g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Preparation Instructions

Making these Salted Peanut Butter Cookies is incredibly straightforward, even for novice bakers. The key is to ensure your ingredients are at room temperature and to not overmix the dough. Let’s get baking!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the creamy peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
6. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
7. Using the tines of a fork, gently press down on each cookie dough ball to create a crisscross pattern. This is a classic hallmark of peanut butter cookies, whether you’re making these or more traditional Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies.
8. Sprinkle each cookie with a pinch of flaky sea salt.
9. Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are still slightly soft. They will set more as they cool.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Fun Twists & Serving Ideas

• Chocolate Drizzle: Once cooled, melt some dark or milk chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for an extra layer of decadence.
• Peanut Butter Cups: Press a mini peanut butter cup into the center of the cookie dough ball before baking for a delightful surprise.
• Spice It Up: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a warm, subtle kick.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cooled cookies for an ultimate summer treat.
• Different Salts: Experiment with smoked sea salt or Hawaiian black lava salt for unique flavor and visual appeal.

FAQ

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?

A: It’s generally recommended to use creamy, processed peanut butter (like Jif or Skippy) for consistent results in baking, as natural peanut butter can separate and affect the cookie’s texture.

Q: How long do these cookies stay fresh?

A: Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.

Q: Can I freeze the cookie dough?

A: Yes! You can roll the dough balls, press them with a fork, and freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer to an airtight freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.

Q: What kind of flaky sea salt should I use?

A: Maldon sea salt flakes are a popular choice for their delicate texture and excellent flavor, but any high-quality flaky sea salt will work beautifully.

Conclusion

There you have it – a recipe for incredibly satisfying Salted Peanut Butter Cookies that are guaranteed to become a household favorite. The balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors makes them stand out, offering a delightful twist on a beloved classic. While we all love the simplicity of traditional Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies, this recipe proves that sometimes, a small addition can make a big impact. So go ahead, whip up a batch and treat yourself and your loved ones to these perfect bites!

Recipe Note

For the best texture, ensure your butter is truly softened (not melted) and your egg is at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, emulsified dough that bakes evenly and yields perfectly chewy cookies.