When you’re craving a quick homemade dessert, these 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are the perfect solution. Made with just peanut butter, sugar, and an egg, these cookies are soft in the center, lightly crisp around the edges, and packed with rich peanut butter flavor. Best of all, they’re ready in only 13 minutes, making them ideal for busy days, last-minute guests, or satisfying a sweet craving in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cookies couldn’t be easier to make. With only three simple pantry ingredients, there’s no need for flour, butter, or complicated baking techniques. They’re naturally gluten-free when made with gluten-free peanut butter, incredibly soft, and perfect for beginner bakers. Whether you’re baking for the family or preparing a quick treat, this recipe is always a winner.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and fully combined.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
Using the back of a fork, gently press each dough ball to create the classic criss-cross pattern.
Bake for approximately 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and enjoy.
Tips & Tricks
Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest cookie texture.
Avoid overbaking, as the cookies will continue to firm up while cooling.
Lightly grease the fork if it sticks while creating the criss-cross pattern.
For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of sea salt.
Mini chocolate chips can be folded into the dough for a fun variation.
Details
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 13 minutes
Yield: 12 cookies
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Dietary Notes: Naturally Gluten-Free (when using certified gluten-free peanut butter)
Notes
Natural peanut butter can be used, but make sure it’s thoroughly stirred before measuring.
Crunchy peanut butter creates a slightly crispier texture with added crunch.
Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing to maintain their texture.
These cookies pair perfectly with a glass of milk, coffee, or hot chocolate.
Nutrition
Approximate per cookie:
Calories: 165
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 90mg
FAQ
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes. Just be sure it’s well mixed, as the oil tends to separate.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely. Roll the dough into balls, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.
Why do these cookies not contain flour?
The peanut butter and egg provide enough structure, making this an easy flourless cookie recipe.
How do I know when they’re done?
The edges should be lightly golden while the centers still look slightly soft. They’ll continue setting as they cool.
Can I add chocolate chips?
Yes. Chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a drizzle of melted chocolate make delicious additions.
Storage
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
Refrigerate for up to one week if preferred.
Freeze baked cookies for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Similar Recipes
3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies – Ready in Just 13 Minutes
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and fully combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
- Using the back of a fork, gently press each dough ball to create the classic criss-cross pattern.
- Bake for approximately 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 to 3 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy.
Notes
Conclusion
These 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies prove that delicious homemade desserts don’t have to be complicated. With only three pantry staples and just 13 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have soft, chewy cookies that everyone will love. Whether you’re baking with kids, making a quick snack, or satisfying a last-minute dessert craving, this easy recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.