Name: 3 Ingredient PB Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Peanut Butter (creamy or crunchy); 1 cup Granulated White Sugar; 1 large Egg

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

When it comes to quick and easy baking, few recipes can beat the simplicity and deliciousness of 3 Ingredient PB Cookies. These cookies are the perfect treat for anyone craving something sweet but without the fuss of a complicated recipe. With just three pantry staples—peanut butter, granulated sugar, and an egg—you can whip up a batch of cookies that are chewy, rich, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your baking repertoire!

Why It Deserves a Spot

These 3 Ingredient PB Cookies are not just easy to make; they are incredibly versatile and can satisfy a variety of cravings. Need a quick treat for unexpected guests? Want to prepare a snack for your kids after school? Or maybe you’re just looking for a sweet fix without the guilt of using a long list of ingredients? This recipe checks all those boxes! Plus, the peanut butter adds a wonderful richness and depth of flavor that elevates these cookies beyond their minimal ingredients.

Ingredient Notes

Peanut Butter: Use creamy or crunchy peanut butter based on your texture preference. Natural peanut butter is also great if you prefer fewer additives.
Granulated White Sugar: This is essential for sweetness and helps in achieving that delightful chewy texture.
Egg: The egg acts as a binding agent, holding everything together while adding moisture to the cookies.

Essential Tools for Success

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining all your ingredients easily.
Cookie Sheet: A non-stick cookie sheet or lined with parchment paper ensures easy removal of cookies.
Measuring Cups: To measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Mixing Spoon or Hand Mixer: A simple spoon works, but a hand mixer can make it easier to combine the ingredients evenly.
Cooling Rack: Essential for letting your cookies cool properly once they are baked.

Directions: 3 Ingredient PB Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 large egg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated and form a smooth dough.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto a lined cookie sheet. Leave some space between each cookie, as they will spread a little while baking.

Step 4: Create a Pattern

For that classic peanut butter cookie look, use the back of a fork to gently press down on each cookie, creating a crisscross pattern on top.

Step 5: Bake

Place the cookie sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden. The centers may look a bit soft, but they will firm up as they cool.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy these 3 Ingredient PB Cookies warm or at room temperature!

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free since it doesn’t require any butter or milk.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is gluten-free as it contains no flour. Just be sure to use gluten-free certified peanut butter to avoid cross-contamination.

If You’re Curious

These cookies are not just a delicious snack; they also come with a range of nutritional benefits. Peanut butter is rich in protein and healthy fats, making these cookies a more filling option than traditional sugar-laden cookies. If you’re looking to switch things up, try adding a few chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the cookie dough for an extra flavor boost. For those who love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, check out our Chocolate Pretzel Peanut Butter Balls for another tasty treat!

Make-Ahead & Storage

These 3 Ingredient PB Cookies are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. If you want to save some for later, baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, consider freezing them! Just place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they can last up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes! Natural peanut butter works great in this recipe. Just make sure it’s well mixed, as natural peanut butter can separate.

Can I add chocolate chips to the cookie dough?

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a delightful way to enhance these cookies. Just fold in about half a cup of chocolate chips after mixing the initial ingredients.

What if I don’t have granulated sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar in equal amounts. This will give your cookies a richer flavor and a slightly chewier texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This recipe is easily doubled if you want to bake a larger batch. Just make sure to have plenty of baking sheets ready to accommodate the extra cookies!

Final Thoughts

With just three simple ingredients, you can create a batch of cookies that are sure to impress anyone lucky enough to try them. These 3 Ingredient PB Cookies are not only a testament to the idea that deliciousness doesn’t have to be complicated, but they also deliver a nostalgic flavor that many people love. Whether you enjoy them as a quick snack or a dessert, these cookies are a delightful addition to any occasion. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bake up a batch of these scrumptious cookies today!