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Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie bursting with rich peanut butter flavor, beautifully finished with a delicate crackled, sugary crust. These delightful Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies are just that – a perfect blend of comfort and charm, ready to brighten any day.
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies
These incredible Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies are truly special. They offer a delightful texture and irresistible taste that will make them a new family favorite.
- Effortlessly Simple: Whip up a batch of these glorious cookies with minimal fuss, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Pure Peanut Butter Bliss: Indulge in that unmistakable, rich, and creamy peanut butter flavor that everyone adores.
- Visually Stunning Crinkles: Each cookie boasts a unique, sugary cracked surface, making them as pretty as they are delicious.
- Perfectly Chewy Texture: Enjoy a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior with just the right amount of chewiness.
- Quick to Bake: From mixing bowl to cooling rack, these cookies are ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for last-minute cravings.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Little ones will love helping to roll the dough balls in sparkling powdered sugar.
- Versatile Treat: Ideal for lunchboxes, dessert platters, holiday gatherings, or simply a cozy afternoon snack.
Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies Ingredients Needed
Crafting these delectable peanut butter crinkle cookies requires just a few pantry staples. Always opt for creamy peanut butter for the smoothest dough, and ensure your egg is large for proper binding.
- 1 cup (200g) creamy peanut butter – Choose a natural, stir-free variety if possible for best texture.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – This contributes to the cookies’ sweetness and helps create that signature crinkle.
- 1 large egg – Essential for binding the dough ingredients together seamlessly.
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract – Enhances the overall warmth and depth of flavor.
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour – Use a good quality flour for consistent results.
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) baking powder – This leavening agent helps achieve a soft, slightly risen cookie.
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt – Balances the sweetness and amplifies the peanut butter notes.
- 1/2 cup (100g) powdered sugar for rolling – Don’t skimp; this creates the beautiful crinkled exterior.
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Essential Equipment for Perfect Crinkle Cookies
You only need a few basic tools to prepare these irresistible cookies. A good baking sheet and parchment paper are key for easy cleanup and even baking.
- Medium Mixing Bowls: You’ll need two bowls for wet and dry ingredients.
- Electric Mixer or Whisk: A hand mixer makes creaming the wet ingredients effortless.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure perfect results every time.
- Baking Sheets: Choose light-colored sheets to prevent over-browning on the bottom.
- Parchment Paper: Crucial for non-stick baking and easy transfer of cookies.
- Shallow Bowl: Ideal for rolling the cookie dough in powdered sugar.
- Cookie Scoop (1-inch): Ensures uniform cookie size for even baking.
- Wire Cooling Rack: Allows air circulation for cookies to cool completely without getting soggy.
Recipe Overview: Your Guide to Peanut Butter Crinkles
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty: Easy
Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies
Crafting these gorgeous peanut butter crinkle cookies is a simple and rewarding process. Follow these steps carefully to achieve perfectly cracked, soft, and flavorful treats.
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, gracefully line several baking sheets with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, large egg, and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients until the mixture becomes wonderfully smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients
- Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Ensure these dry components are fully combined for even distribution.
Step 4: Form the Dough
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing gently until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tougher cookies. The dough should be soft but manageable.
Step 5: Roll and Coat
- Pour the powdered sugar into a shallow bowl. Using a 1-inch cookie scoop, portion out the dough. Roll each ball generously in the powdered sugar, ensuring a thick, even coating. This heavy coating is what creates those stunning crinkles during baking.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
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- Place the sugar-coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly set and the tops have developed their characteristic beautiful crinkled appearance. The centers will still look soft, but they will firm up as they cool.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
- Let the baked cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. This crucial step allows them to set properly, preventing them from breaking. After that, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
CHECK OUT: The Best Chocolate Crinkle Cookies Dessert Recipe – If you love crinkles, you absolutely must try these rich chocolate versions!
Tips for Success with Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies
Achieve bakery-quality results with these expert tips. For the best peanut butter crinkle cookies, attention to detail truly pays off.
- Creamy Peanut Butter is Key: Always use creamy peanut butter, not crunchy, for a smooth dough texture that crinkles beautifully.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to tougher cookies.
- Heavy Powdered Sugar Coat: Roll each dough ball thoroughly in powdered sugar. A thick coat is essential for those dramatic cracks.
- Even Baking: Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform size, which guarantees that all cookies bake evenly.
- Watch the Time: Bake until the edges are set and tops are crinkled. Overbaking can make them dry, so pull them out when the centers still look slightly soft.
Variations & Substitutions for Your Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies
Customize your peanut butter crinkle cookies to suit dietary needs or simply add new flavor dimensions.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free! Just ensure your peanut butter does not contain dairy.
- Chocolatey Twist: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips with the dry ingredients for a delicious peanut butter chocolate chip crinkle.
- Nutty Crunch: While the recipe calls for creamy, you can substitute half the creamy peanut butter with crunchy for added texture.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions for Crinkle Cookies
These delightful crinkle cookies are perfect on their own, but pairing them thoughtfully can elevate the experience. Consider these complementary ideas.
- Classic Milk Pairing: A tall, cold glass of milk is the ultimate companion to these rich peanut butter treats.
- Coffee or Tea: Enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or your favorite herbal tea for a comforting snack.
- Ice Cream Topper: Crumble a cookie over vanilla bean or chocolate ice cream for an instant dessert upgrade.
- Milkshake Delight: Blend a cookie into a vanilla or chocolate milkshake for an extra peanut butter boost.
- Fruit & Nut Butter Board: Arrange them on a dessert board with fresh apple slices, banana, and extra peanut butter for dipping.
Health Benefits of These Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies
While an indulgence, these Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies offer some surprising nutritional benefits in moderation. Enjoy your treat knowing you’re getting a little something extra.
- Protein Power: Peanut butter provides a good source of plant-based protein, contributing to satiety.
- Dietary Fiber: With 1g of fiber per cookie, these treats offer a small boost to digestive health.
- Healthy Fats: Peanut butter contains healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, beneficial for heart health.
- Energy Boost: The combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fat provides sustained energy.
Storage & Reheating Your Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies
Proper storage ensures your Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies remain fresh and delicious for days. You can easily keep them on hand for whenever a craving strikes.
- Room Temperature: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days.
- Freezing Dough: Scoop and roll dough balls, then freeze on a parchment-lined tray until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to bake time.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Place completely cooled cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: For a “just baked” experience, warm cookies in a microwave for 10-15 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for 3-5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies
Got questions about these delightful peanut butter crinkle cookies? We’ve got answers to help you bake with confidence!
Are Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies easy to make?
Absolutely! This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for novice bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Why do my peanut butter cookies not crinkle?
The key to good crinkles is a generous coating of powdered sugar. Ensure you roll the dough balls heavily to achieve that signature cracked look.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
While creamy is recommended for texture, you can use crunchy peanut butter. It will add a nutty texture but may slightly alter the cookie’s chewiness.
How long do Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh and delicious for 5-7 days.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, roll the balls in powdered sugar, and freeze them. Bake from frozen whenever you want fresh cookies!
What makes these Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies special?
Their unique combination of intense peanut butter flavor, super soft and chewy texture, and that beautiful, distinctive powdered sugar crinkle makes them truly stand out.
More Delicious Dishes
Craving more sweet treats or perhaps some savory delights? Explore these other fantastic recipes that are sure to satisfy!
- Soft & Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies – Dive into the classic, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of traditional peanut butter cookies.
- Red Velvet Crinkle Cookies – Indulge in vibrant, cocoa-rich cookies with a gorgeous festive crinkle.
- Lemon Crinkle Cookies – Brighten your day with zesty, tangy lemon cookies adorned with a sweet powdered sugar crackle.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies are more than just a dessert; they’re a simple joy, a comforting treat, and a delightful addition to any occasion. Their rich flavor and charming appearance are truly irresistible. Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more scrumptious recipes and baking inspiration!
Peanut Butter Crinkle Cookies
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Soft, chewy, and bursting with rich peanut butter flavor, these delightful crinkle cookies are a perfect blend of comfort and charm, ready to brighten any day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (200g) creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) salt
- 1/2 cup (100g) powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Place powdered sugar in a shallow bowl. Scoop dough into 1-inch balls and roll in powdered sugar to coat heavily.
- Place balls 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until cookies are set and crinkled on top.
- Let cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
- Peanut Butter Choice: Use creamy peanut butter for the smoothest dough and best crinkle results.
- Heavy Sugar Coating: Don’t be shy with the powdered sugar; a thick coat ensures deep, beautiful crinkles.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove cookies when edges are set and tops are crinkled, even if centers look soft. They’ll continue to set as they cool.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: peanut butter crinkle cookies, peanut butter cookies, crinkle cookies, easy cookie recipe, chewy cookies, homemade cookies, dessert, baking, classic cookies

