5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies: Easy, Tasty, and Gluten-Free

Craving a quick and delicious treat? 5-ingredient peanut butter cookies are the perfect solution. They’re simple, require minimal effort, and use pantry staples you likely already have. Even better, these cookies are naturally gluten-free, making them accessible to many diets.

According to Healthline, peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats, making these cookies not just tasty but also satisfying. Plus, if you’re watching your sugar intake, the Mayo Clinic recommends sugar substitutes like coconut sugar for a healthier twist.

Why Choose a 5-Ingredient Recipe?

Simple recipes have a universal appeal:

They’re quick to prepare.
They minimize the mess in your kitchen.
They save money by reducing ingredient costs.

These cookies are the perfect example of how fewer ingredients can still deliver rich flavor and chewy perfection.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these cookies, gather just five essentials:

Peanut Butter: Either creamy or chunky, depending on your texture preference.
Sugar: White sugar works well, but brown sugar adds a deeper flavor.
Eggs: Essential for binding the dough.
Vanilla Extract: Elevates the flavor profile.
Salt: Optional, but it enhances the sweetness and balances flavors.

Pro Tip: Use natural peanut butter for a cleaner ingredient list. However, be sure to stir it thoroughly to prevent oily separation.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven

Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Mix the Ingredients

In a bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.

3. Shape the Dough

Scoop out small portions and roll them into 1.5-inch balls.
Place them on the baking sheet with space in between.

4. Create the Crisscross Pattern

Gently press each ball with a fork, then rotate 90 degrees to make the classic crisscross design.

5. Bake and Cool

Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden.
Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the tray before transferring to a wire rack.

Storage Tips

Keep your cookies fresh by:

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Freeze the dough in pre-portioned balls for up to three months—just bake as needed!

Creative Variations

Want to jazz up the recipe? Try these ideas:

Add chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
Mix in chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch.
Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the cookies after baking for a gourmet touch.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a simple recipe, challenges can arise. Here’s how to fix them:

Dry or Crumbly Cookies: Add a tablespoon of milk or an extra egg.
Over-Spreading: Chill the dough for 15 minutes before shaping.
Uneven Baking: Rotate the baking tray halfway through for consistent results.

For baking adjustments at high altitudes, check out King Arthur Baking’s tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but ensure it’s well-mixed to avoid oily or dry spots.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t require flour. Just ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

What is the calorie count per cookie?

Each cookie contains about 120–150 calories, depending on portion size.

Conclusion: A Recipe Worth Trying

5-ingredient peanut butter cookies are proof that simplicity can deliver exceptional results. Whether you enjoy them plain, with chocolate chips, or paired with a glass of milk, these cookies are guaranteed to become a go-to treat. Try them today and enjoy the perfect combination of ease and indulgence!

5-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies: Easy and Delicious!