Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These healthy peanut butter cookies are simple to make and wonderfully satisfying. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can enjoy a naturally sweet treat that’s soft, chewy, and full of peanut buttery goodness.

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups creamy peanut butter (not too runny)
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Whisk well until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken.
3. Step 3: Refrigerate the dough for at least 15 to 20 minutes to help it firm up.
4. Step 4: Using a medium cookie scoop, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball with a fork, creating a cross-cross pattern and pressing down to about 1/4 inch thickness in the center.
5. Step 5: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are very lightly golden but the cookies still look slightly underbaked in the center.
6. Step 6: Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet so they can firm up before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use natural peanut butter without added sugars for a cleaner flavor and healthier cookie.
• Add a handful of dark chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the dough for extra texture and taste.
• If you prefer crunchier cookies, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to prevent burning.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking.

Storage

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm briefly in the microwave or oven until soft and fresh.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used and will add a nice texture to the cookies, but the dough may be a bit more crumbly. Adjust mixing and chilling time as needed.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe contains no flour, so it is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your peanut butter and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.

Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 153 reviews

These Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies are a simple, wholesome treat made with creamy peanut butter, natural maple syrup, and just a few ingredients. Perfectly soft and subtly sweet, they’re an easy, nutritious snack or dessert for any time of day.

• Author: Ella
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12–14 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Dough

• 1 1/4 cups creamy peanut butter (not too runny)
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and sea salt if using. Whisk vigorously. The mixture will start out runny and lumpy but will thicken as you mix thoroughly.
3. Chill Dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 15-20 minutes. This step firms up the dough, making it easier to handle and shaping.
4. Shape Cookies: Use a medium cookie scoop to portion out dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball gently with a fork in a crisscross pattern to around 1/4 inch thickness in the center, leaving edges slightly thicker.
5. Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until the edges are just beginning to turn lightly golden, but the centers remain a bit underbaked to keep softness.
6. Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool fully on the baking sheet. They will firm up as they cool, providing the perfect chewy texture.

Notes

• Use creamy peanut butter that isn’t too runny for best texture.
• Refrigeration of dough is key for easier shaping and better results.
• Don’t overbake; slightly underbaked centers create a soft cookie.
• You can omit the sea salt if you prefer less salty sweetness.
• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Keywords: healthy peanut butter cookies, gluten free cookies, easy peanut butter cookies, natural sweetener, maple syrup cookies