3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
If you’re on the hunt for a quick, simple, and utterly delicious cookie recipe, look no further! These 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are an absolute dream come true for peanut butter lovers. With just three ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, and they are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for a last-minute treat or a cozy afternoon snack, these cookies are easy to make and even easier to devour.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is foolproof and provides a delightful experience. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy the rich, nutty flavor and chewy texture of these irresistible cookies!
Why Cooks Rave About It
The beauty of 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies lies in their simplicity and flavor. They are not only quick to make but also require minimal cleanup, making them a favorite for busy bakers. The combination of creamy peanut butter, sugar, and egg results in cookies that are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. Plus, for those who may have dietary restrictions, this recipe uses common pantry staples that can easily be adapted.
These cookies are perfect for sharing at gatherings, enjoying with a glass of milk, or simply indulging in a sweet moment of self-care. With their rich peanut butter taste and satisfying texture, they have become a staple in many homes.
The Ingredient Lineup
To make these delightful 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter – Choose your favorite brand for a rich flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – This provides the sweetness and helps achieve that perfect chewy texture.
- 1 large egg – Acts as a binding agent to hold everything together.
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, and you likely have them on hand already.
Setup & Equipment
Before you dive into the baking process, here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowl – A medium-sized bowl will work perfectly for mixing your ingredients.
- Measuring cups – Accurate measurements are key to success.
- Baking sheet – Line it with parchment paper for easy cookie release.
- Oven – Preheat to ensure your cookies bake evenly.
- Spoon or cookie scoop – For portioning the dough.
Having everything ready will streamline the baking process and make it all the more enjoyable!
Method: 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter 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: Mix the Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and the large egg. Use a fork or a whisk to blend the ingredients until they are fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
Step 3: Portion the Dough
Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave enough space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly while baking.
Step 4: Flatten the Cookies
Using the back of a fork, gently flatten each cookie and create a criss-cross pattern on top. This not only gives them a classic look but also helps them bake evenly.
Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will appear soft but will firm up as they cool.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, they are ready to be enjoyed!
Swap Guide

If you’re looking to customize these 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies or need alternatives, consider the following swaps:
- Natural Peanut Butter: If you prefer a more natural option, use natural peanut butter, but ensure it is well-mixed to avoid separation.
- Brown Sugar: For a richer flavor, swap granulated sugar with brown sugar.
- Egg Substitute: If you’re egg-free, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as a binding agent.
- Nut Allergies: You can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version.
Feel free to experiment and find what works best for your taste!
Common Errors (and Fixes)
Even with a simple recipe like this, there can be a few bumps along the way. Here are some common errors and how to fix them:
- Cookies Spreading Too Much: Make sure your dough is well-chilled before baking. You can also try adding a bit more sugar to help them hold shape.
- Dry Cookies: Baking for too long can lead to dry cookies. Keep an eye on them, and remember they will continue to cook on the baking sheet after removing from the oven.
- Too Sweet: If the cookies are too sweet for your liking, reduce the sugar slightly in your next batch.
- Too Sticky Dough: If your dough is too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to make it easier to scoop and shape.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to cookie perfection!
Best Ways to Store
To keep your 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies fresh and delicious, consider the following storage methods:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Place the cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Common Qs About 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture to your cookies. Just keep in mind that it may alter the overall texture slightly.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it doesn’t include flour. Just ensure your peanut butter and sugar are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
What can I add to the dough for extra flavor?
Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for an extra flavor boost!
Why did my cookies turn out too crumbly?
If your cookies are crumbly, it could be due to too much sugar or not enough binding from the egg. Make sure to measure accurately and ensure your egg is well incorporated into the mixture.
Next Up in Your Queue
If you love these 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies, you might also enjoy trying:
- Peanut Butter Banana Bread
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Energy Balls
- Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
- Fluffy Peanut Butter Muffins
Let’s Eat
Now that you have mastered the art of making 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies, it’s time to dig in! Make sure to savor every chewy bite, experiencing the delightful blend of peanut butter and sweetness. These cookies are not just a treat; they are a celebration of simplicity and flavor.
With just three ingredients, you’ve created something truly special that will bring joy to your taste buds and warmth to your home. Happy baking!

3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter Choose your favorite brand for a rich flavor
- 1 cup granulated sugar provides sweetness and helps achieve chewy texture
- 1 large egg acts as a binding agent
Instructions
Method: 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to bake cookies evenly and achieve a golden brown color.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and the large egg. Blend with a fork or whisk until smooth and fully combined.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread slightly.
- Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a fork and create a criss-cross pattern on top to give a classic look and help bake evenly.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They will be soft but firm up as they cool.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Enjoy once cooled.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Cups
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
- Spoon or Cookie Scoop
Notes
- Refrigerate sticky dough for 30 minutes to make scooping easier.
- Substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar for a richer flavor.
- Use a flax egg as an egg substitute for an egg-free version.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

