Simple Peanut Butter Cookies: A Soft and Chewy Classic

Simple Peanut Butter Cookies: A Soft and Chewy ClassicSimple Peanut Butter Cookies have been a classic staple in many households for years. These soft and chewy cookies bring back memories of days spent in the kitchen with loved ones and the wonderful aromas that filled the air. This recipe combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures to create a cookie that is simply irresistible. Let’s dive into the recipe for these delicious treats, learn more about their history, and uncover some interesting curiosities about them.

Ingredients You Will Need for Simple Peanut Butter Cookies

To whip up a batch of these scrumptious cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Step by Step Instructions to Make Simple Peanut Butter Cookies

With your ingredients in hand, it’s time to begin crafting your soft and chewy peanut butter cookies. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a batch that will have everyone coming back for more.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will ensure your cookies don’t stick and are easy to remove.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer or wooden spoon, mix until well combined and creamy in texture.

Step 3: Add the egg, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt to the peanut butter mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated and the dough is smooth.

Step 4: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out equal-sized portions of the dough and roll each scoop into a ball.

Step 5: Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 6: Using the back of a fork, gently press down on each dough ball in a crisscross pattern to flatten them slightly.

Step 7: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges.

Step 8: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

The History and Curiosities of Simple Peanut Butter Cookies

The origin of peanut butter cookies can be traced back to the early 20th century in the United States. Peanuts, native to the Americas, were grown by Native Americans and have been used as a food source for centuries. It was George Washington Carver, a renowned agricultural scientist, who greatly improved peanut cultivation techniques and promoted the use of peanuts in various recipes, which led to an increase in its popularity.

Peanut butter cookies became well-known in the 1930s, when Pillsbury introduced a recipe for them in their cookbook. The now-classic crisscross pattern, which is pressed onto the top of the dough with a fork, was introduced to help the cookies bake evenly. This pattern has since become a staple in the presentation of these cookies and is instantly recognizable.

Curiously, peanut butter cookies are an excellent source of protein due to the peanuts and eggs in the recipe. This made them popular not only as a dessert but also as a nutritious snack option during the World Wars.

In conclusion, Simple Peanut Butter Cookies are a soft and chewy classic treat that has held its place in American households for generations. They are easy to make and have a rich and flavorful history that only adds to their appeal. So why not whip up a batch today and delight in both their taste and fascinating backstory?

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