There’s something truly special about baking a batch of cookies that you can enjoy with zero guilt. Picture this: the warm, gooey aroma of freshly baked Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies swirling through your kitchen, promising a treat that’s as delightful for the palate as it is kind to the waistline. I was looking for a way to satisfy my sweet tooth without the heaviness of traditional cookies when I stumbled upon this gluten-free gem.
With only a few simple ingredients, these cookies deliver an intensely peanut-buttery flavor wrapped in a soft and chewy texture that will leave you reaching for just one more. Whether you’re a health-conscious eater or just someone craving a quick homemade treat, these cookies fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they’re versatile enough to allow you to throw in your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit, making each batch uniquely yours. So let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking healthier indulgence awaits!
Why Choose Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with intense peanut butter goodness, satisfying your sweet cravings guilt-free.
Quick & Easy: With just a handful of ingredients, these cookies come together in mere minutes perfect for busy days!
Health-Conscious Delight: Crafted without flour or butter, they cater to gluten-free and health-minded individuals alike.
Versatile Fun: Customize with your favorite mix-ins, from chocolate chips to dried fruits, ensuring every batch is a delightful surprise.
Chewy Perfection: The soft, chewy texture will have you savoring every mouthful, making them a delightful treat for everyone.
Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to bake these delightful treats!
For the Dough
- 1 large egg – Provides structure and moisture, essential for binding the ingredients together.
- ⅔ cup brown sugar (packed) – Adds sweetness and moisture; light or dark brown sugar can work interchangeably.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Enhances sweetness and supports cookie structure; coconut sugar can be used as a tasty alternative.
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Brings depth of flavor; always opt for pure vanilla over imitation for the best results.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Essential for slight rising; never skip this for the perfect texture.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt – Balances sweetness and amplifies flavor; table salt is a good substitute if kosher is unavailable.
- 1 cup creamy or crunchy peanut butter – The star of the show, offering rich flavor; choose natural peanut butter for a smoother cookie.
- ½ cup dark chocolate or peanut butter chips (optional) – Adds extra sweetness and delicious texture; omit for the classic cookie experience.
Indulge in these Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies, a treat everyone in the family will love!
How to Make Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
- Prepare the Dough: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Add Peanut Butter: Fold in the peanut butter gently, ensuring the mixture becomes evenly smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving that rich cookie texture!
- Incorporate Chips: Gently mix in your optional chocolate or peanut butter chips if you want that extra indulgent touch. It adds delightful bursts of sweetness in every bite!
- Chill Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent spreading during baking and keeps your cookies fluffy.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough chills. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick.
- Shape Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie. They’ll spread a bit while baking!
- Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers appear soft. They’ll firm up as they cool, creating that perfect chewy texture.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set properly and reach that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Optional: For a tasty twist, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies are a fabulous choice for busy home cooks looking to save time while enjoying fresh, delicious treats! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply follow the instructions through the chilling step, cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate the dough. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven and scoop the chilled dough onto your baking sheet, then bake as instructed. If you’d like, you can also freeze the prepared dough for up to 3 months just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. This way, you’ll have freshly baked cookies in no time, just as delightful as when made same-day!
Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to give your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies a personalized twist with these delightful ideas that will tantalize your taste buds!
- Nut Butters: Substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a unique flavor twist. Each nut butter brings its own special richness to the cookies!
- Sweetener Swap: Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a natural, lighter sweetness. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly with liquid sweeteners.
- Add Spices: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic flavor. These spices will create a cozy, inviting cookie experience.
- Dried Fruits: Toss in some chopped dried cranberries or raisins to bring a chewy fruitiness. The pops of color and flavor will brighten up every bite!
- Vegan Version: For a vegan-friendly cookie, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water). This keeps the moisture while skipping animal products.
- Coconut Flakes: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for added texture and a tropical twist. The coconut will enhance the chewiness and flavor beautifully!
- Chocolate Lovers: Add in dark chocolate chunks or even a drizzle of melted chocolate on top for indulgence. Who doesn’t love a little extra chocolate with their peanut butter?
With these tempting variations, your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies can adapt to suit your palate and dietary needs—let your creativity run wild!
What to Serve with Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies?
Indulging in these delightful cookies is only the beginning; let’s explore the perfect companions to elevate your dessert experience.
- Glass of Milk: A classic pairing that complements the richness of the cookies, enhancing the peanut butter flavor with every sip.
- Warm Coffee: The slight bitterness and warmth of coffee beautifully balance the sweetness of the cookies, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing bite of vibrant fruits adds a bright contrast to the chewy cookies, keeping your dessert light and satisfying.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling some melted chocolate over your cookies offers an indulgent touch, amplifying their deliciousness for special occasions.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream served alongside the cookies creates a deliciously creamy contrast that’s simply irresistible.
These pairings transform your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies into a full-fledged dessert experience, turning any moment into a sweet celebration!
Expert Tips for Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate your dough for at least 30 minutes; skipping this step may result in flat cookies that lack that perfect chewy texture.
- Choose Natural Peanut Butter: Opt for natural peanut butter for a healthier twist; avoid brands with added sugars or oils to maintain the desired consistency.
- Watch Your Bake Time: Keep an eye on the baking time; cookies may look soft when removed but will firm up as they cool, preventing them from becoming overbaked.
- Adjust Sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar amounts to suit your taste; decreasing sugar can make for a less sweet yet equally satisfying treat.
- Mix-in Variations: Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits; just remember to balance the sweetness for the best flavor profile.
How to Store and Freeze Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week while maintaining their soft, chewy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, keep cookies in the fridge, covered, for up to 10 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will revive that melt-in-your-mouth experience with your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies!
Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to choose ripe peanut butter?
Absolutely! For the best Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies, I recommend using natural peanut butter that doesn’t contain added sugars or oils. Look for a brand where the ingredients list includes just peanuts and maybe a little salt. It should have a creamy texture without separation—if it’s overly oily or hard, it may not yield the best results.
How long do I store Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies?
You can store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They will maintain their soft, chewy texture. If you want to keep them for a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 10 days. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before enjoying for the best experience!
Can I freeze these cookies and how?
Very! To freeze your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies, allow them to cool completely first. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Once they’re firm, transfer the cookies into a freezer-safe bag or container, layering parchment paper between them if needed. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them up!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your cookies spread excessively, it might be due to not chilling the dough long enough! Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking, as this helps solidify the fats and control the spread during baking. Additionally, ensure you’re using the correct proportions of ingredients and don’t skip the baking soda; it helps with the cookie structure!
Are Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
Oh, unfortunately, these cookies are not safe for those with nut allergies since the main ingredient is peanut butter. However, if you’re looking for an alternative, consider using sunflower seed butter or another nut-free spread. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly, but they can still be delicious!
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Certainly! For a vegan version of Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies, substitute the egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes to thicken before mixing it into your dough. This flax egg will help bind the ingredients together, just like the original egg does!
Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt until smooth.
- Fold in the peanut butter gently, ensuring the mixture is creamy.
- Mix in the chocolate or peanut butter chips if desired.
- Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized dough portions onto the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set and centers are soft.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.