Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 8-10 minutes, these cookies are ready in under 20 minutes.
• Minimal Ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples, these cookies require only a few ingredients.
• Air Fryer Convenience: Utilizing the air fryer results in a crispy texture without the need for preheating an oven.
• Customizable: Add-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts can be incorporated to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and egg. Mix until smooth and creamy.
   • Add the baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Shape the Cookies:
   • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
   • Using a fork, gently press down on each ball to flatten it slightly and create a crisscross pattern on top.
3. Air Fry:
   • Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes.
   • Place the shaped cookies in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for spreading.
   • Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
4. Cool:
   • Remove the cookies from the air fryer and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for allowing the cookies to set properly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 cookies.
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies: For an extra indulgent treat, fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the cookie dough before shaping and cooking. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is irresistible and adds a delightful twist to the classic recipe.
• Nutty Crunch: Add some texture and flavor by incorporating chopped nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts into the cookie dough. Simply mix in 1/4 cup of chopped nuts along with the other ingredients for a nutty crunch in every bite.
• Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprints: Create a fun twist on traditional peanut butter cookies by making thumbprint indentations in the center of each cookie dough ball before cooking. Fill the indentations with your favorite jelly or jam flavors for a nostalgic PB&J-inspired treat.
• Gluten-Free Option: For those following a gluten-free diet, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. To maintain their freshness, you can also place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies, which helps retain moisture.
• Freezing: These cookies also freeze well for longer-term storage. Place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating the layers with parchment paper. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.
• Reheating: If you’re reheating the cookies, pop them back into the air fryer for a couple of minutes at 300°F to restore their crispiness and freshness. This method helps revive the texture and flavor, making them taste as delicious as when they were first baked.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used. However, ensure it is well-stirred to incorporate the oil before measuring, as natural peanut butter tends to separate.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before shaping can help prevent excessive spreading during cooking.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Just ensure you have enough space in your air fryer basket to accommodate the additional cookies, and consider cooking in batches if necessary.

Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?

No, this recipe contains peanut butter, which is a common allergen. For individuals with nut allergies, it’s best to avoid this recipe or use a nut-free alternative.

Can I make these cookies without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake these cookies in a conventional oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

How can I make these cookies vegan?

To make these cookies vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg

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