How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies

No matter what the season, peanut butter desserts in general are a great choice as a treat, but we especially love homemade peanut butter cookies. That’s why we’ve put together this helpful tip sheet on how to make peanut butter cookies any time. Baking great cookies is easy when you have a few basics on making cookies under your belt. This sugar cookie how-to recipe is a great place to start! In no time you’ll be ready to try your hand at making Christmas cookies or hosting a holiday cookie exchange. Just be sure at least one batch is homemade peanut butter cookies.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies - Tips

• INGREDIENTS: Baking is a science! Never make substitutions that aren’t recommended in the recipe. Measure all ingredients carefully.
• Check expiration dates on baking powder and baking soda. Test baking powder for freshness by mixing 1 tsp. with ¼ cup hot water and watch for vigorous bubbling. Baking soda will remain fresh if stored in a sealed container in a dry place.
• Creamy and crunchy peanut butters are generally interchangeable in cookie recipes. For a smooth sauce, frosting or topping, use smooth peanut butter.
• Measuring peanut butter is sometimes a sticky situation. To make it easier, spray a dry measuring cup with cooking spray, then use a rubber spatula to scoop the peanut butter from the jar.
• Store peanut butter in a cabinet at room temperature for easy blending and measuring.
• For a great step-by-step recipe for peanut butter cookies, check out our Easy Peanut Butter Cookies.

Storing Peanut Butter Cookies

• As soon as they are cool, place cookies in a tightly closed plastic container or resealable bag. They will stay fresh for several days.
• Most cookie recipes freeze well. Sturdy cookies can be gently stacked in freezer-weight resealable bags after they are cooled. For fragile cookies, freeze in a single layer on a cookie sheet before placing into bags. Store frozen cookies up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature.

More Peanut Butter Ideas

• Homemade peanut butter cookies are flattened with the tines of a fork to make an attractive crisscross pattern. If the fork begins to stick to the dough, simply dip the fork in water occasionally.
• Peanut butter is a great addition to a number of sweets. Check out our No-Bake Peanut Butter Pie or microwave fudge recipes for ideas on where to start, and then try your own creations!