Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies: 5 Ingredients to Devour

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Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies are a treat everyone will love. Crunchy on the outside with a soft, chewy center, these cookies become a quick family favorite. Perfect for meal prep or to surprise guests, you’ll appreciate the straightforward process that requires only five ingredients. Learn how to create a delectable snack without gluten while maximizing the taste.

Freshly baked gluten-free peanut butter cookies on a baking sheet

Table of Contents

Recipe at a Glance

Best for	Snack time
Difficulty	Easy
Total time	20 minutes
Servings	12 cookies
Key tip	Do not overbake
Smart swap	Use almond butter instead

What Ingredients Do You Need for Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies?

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies are a breeze to make. All you need are these simple ingredients:

1 cup	Peanut butter
1 cup	Brown sugar
1	Large egg
1 teaspoon	Vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon	Baking soda
1/4 teaspoon	Salt

Peanut butter serves as a rich source of healthy fats and protein, making it a critical player in this recipe. If you’re watching your sugar intake, feel free to use a natural sweetener, which can maintain the delicious flavor without excessive sugar. The egg lends moisture and helps the cookies hold their shape, while the baking soda ensures they rise just right. Check out this peanut butter cake for an excellent dessert option too.

Equipment Needed

– Mixing bowl
– Baking sheet
– Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
– Fork

How to Make Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies Step-by-Step

Making Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies is quick and rewarding. Just follow these simple steps, and you will have a delicious treat in no time.

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden brown.

Step 2

In a bowl, mix together the peanut butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Make sure the mix is smooth and creamy to ensure fluffy cookies.

Prep time	10 minutes
Cook time	12 minutes
Storage time	Up to 1 week
Nutritional value	95 calories per cookie

Step 3

Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball with the back of a fork in a crisscross pattern. This ensures they bake evenly and provides that signature look we love in peanut butter cookies.

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. The cookies might look a bit soft in the center, but they’ll firm up as they cool. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling. And remember: don’t overbake. The key to that chewy texture is to take them out just in time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid + Pro Tips for Success

As a habitual cookie baker, I have learned a few things about what works and what doesn’t. Avoid these common missteps for the best cookies every time.

Mistakes to Avoid

Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until blended to keep them soft.
Skipping the cooling time: This causes the cookies to fall apart. Let them sit on the baking sheet to set before moving.
Not measuring peanut butter accurately: Use a dry measuring cup for accurate portions because too much can lead to overly sticky dough.

Tips for Success

If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough. It enhances the peanut butter beautifully.
Chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. It helps cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and chewy longer.

The most crucial takeaway is to ensure not to overbake to retain that delightful chewy texture in your Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies are a straightforward and delicious treat. They are perfect for satisfying sweet cravings with minimal effort.

Easy to Prepare

This cookie recipe is incredibly simple and requires just five ingredients. Even busy weeknights won’t keep you from enjoying fresh-baked cookies that feel luxurious.

Deliciously Nutritious

The recipe focuses on wholesome ingredients. Peanut butter is a fantastic source of protein and healthy fats, making these cookies a guilt-free indulgence.

Perfect for All Occasions

No matter the setting, these cookies deliver. Whether you are hosting a party or packing for lunch, they make a delightful addition that pleases everyone.

Personal Connection and Practical Tips

As I’ve experimented with this recipe over the years, it has quickly become a household favorite. One tip to keep in mind is to lightly press the fork without flattening them too thin; this keeps them thick and chewy.

Custom title about Variations, Serving and Storage Ideas

While the classic version of Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies is incredible, you can elevate it further with some variations and ideas.

Nutty Chocolate Twist

Add a handful of chocolate chips or swap out half the peanut butter for almond butter, creating a delightful blend of flavors that keep every bite interesting.

Dairy-Free Swaps

If you want to make your cookies completely dairy-free, simply use non-dairy chocolate chips for a tasty yet guilt-free treat. This way, you maintain flavor while accommodating dietary preferences.

Great for Snack Boxes

These cookies make an excellent addition to lunchboxes or snack packs. Pair them with apple slices or yogurt to create a delightful combo.

Storage Highlights

For optimal freshness, store cookies in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature. They maintain their chewiness for about a week if you keep them away from humidity.

Nutty Chocolate Twist	Add chocolate chips for a twist
Dairy-Free Swaps	Try non-dairy chocolate chips
Great for Snack Boxes	Perfect with fruit or yogurt
Storage Highlights	Keep in an airtight container

More Recipes You Can Try Next

After trying these cookies, you might want to explore more delightful treats.

Gingersnap Cookies	Enjoy the perfect balance of spice and sweetness.
Heart-Shaped Chocolate Chip Cookies	A sweet touch for special occasions.
Strawberry Crunch Brownies	A fun and fruity twist on brownies.

Final thoughts

Baking these Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies brings joy to my kitchen. They are simple to make and perfect for any occasion. Remember to check the doneness to achieve that perfect chewy bite. Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you enjoyed this recipe, follow me for more delightful treats and inspiration!

Discover even more by checking out my Pinterest page for more recipe ideas.

FAQ

Can I replace peanut butter with another nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can make lovely substitutes. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly, but you will still achieve delicious cookies.

How should I store my leftover cookies?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain delicious and chewy for about a week, perfect for snacking during the week.

Can these cookies be frozen?

While not recommended, you can freeze the dough for later use. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If you find the cookie dough too sticky, try chilling it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape into cookie balls without mess.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce, which works great in maintaining the texture and flavor of the cookies.