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Classic Jif Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

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4.1 from 12 reviews

Classic Jif Peanut Butter Cookies are a beloved treat featuring a perfect balance of creamy peanut butter, buttery richness, and a tender crumb. Rolled in sugar and baked to golden edges with a soft center, these cookies offer a nostalgic flavor and satisfying texture that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (Jif or Skippy)
  • 1/2 cup butter or Crisco shortening, softened
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Sugars

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus additional 1/2 cup for rolling)
  • 1/2 cup (packed) light brown sugar

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or 1/2 teaspoon table salt)
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions

  1. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer or beat by hand to cream together the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step ensures the cookies have a tender texture.
  2. Add Egg and Vanilla Extract: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract thoroughly until fully incorporated, which will help bind the ingredients and add flavor complexity.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and baking soda. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand just until combined without overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
  4. Chill and Shape: Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 to 2 hours or overnight; this step is crucial for developing flavor and making the dough easier to handle. Once chilled, scoop out dough balls about 1 1/2 tablespoons each using a cookie scoop for uniform size. Roll each ball in the reserved 1/2 cup granulated sugar and place them about 2 inches apart on a prepared baking sheet. Using a fork, gently press a crisscross pattern on top of each ball, then reshape with your fingers into a thicker disc to ensure even baking.
  5. Bake the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 13-14 minutes until the edges are light golden brown while centers remain soft. Carefully monitor baking time to avoid over-baking, which can make the cookies too crisp. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, where they will crisp up slightly but remain soft inside.

Notes

  • Chilling the dough is essential for the best texture; do not skip this step.
  • Use a cookie scoop for even-sized cookies which bake uniformly.
  • Watch the cookies closely in the oven; baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven.
  • The crisscross fork pattern is classic for peanut butter cookies and helps flatten them evenly.
  • Butter will give a richer flavor; Crisco shortening will yield a slightly softer texture.