You know those days when you crave something sweet but want to keep things healthy? That’s when my quick and easy 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies come to the rescue! Picture this: the smooth, creamy texture of peanut butter mingling with the rich sweetness of maple syrup, transforming into soft, chewy cookies in just 15 minutes. Trust me, these little delights are a game changer.
Not only are they a breeze to whip up, but they also fit perfectly into vegan and gluten-free diets. Whether you’re looking for a quick energy boost for your kids’ lunchboxes or a satisfying snack to curb your own cravings, these cookies have got you covered. Plus, with a variety of nut butter substitutions and keto-friendly options, there’s a flavor for everyone! So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get baking something delicious together!
Why are 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies a Must-Try?
Simplicity: With just two ingredients, you can create a delicious treat that’s ready in 15 minutes!
Health-Conscious: Enjoy a guilt-free dessert that’s gluten-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free—perfect for everyone.
Flavorful Options: Experiment with almond or cashew butter for a unique twist!
Versatile Treat: Great for lunchboxes or a satisfying snack, these cookies are loved by kids and adults alike.
Crowd-Pleaser: Their chewy texture and melt-in-your-mouth goodness make them irresistible!
Looking for even more inspiration? Check out my nut butter substitutions for delightful variations!
2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients
• Dive into making these yummy 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies with this simple ingredient list!
For the Cookies
- Peanut Butter – Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the best texture and flavor.
- Maple Syrup – This serves as a natural sweetener and can be substituted with agave syrup, honey, or keto-friendly sweeteners like monk fruit or stevia.
Optional Add-ins
- Chopped Peanuts – Add a delightful crunch and enhance the peanut flavor!
- Dark Chocolate Chips – Melt and mix in for a rich chocolatey twist that pairs perfectly with peanut butter.
- Vanilla Extract – A splash can elevate the cookies with depth of flavor.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to whip up some indulgent yet healthy treats that everyone will adore!
How to Make 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). This ensures the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.
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Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and maple syrup. Stir until a smooth dough forms, blending the flavors nicely into a creamy mixture.
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Scoop and Shape: Using a tablespoon, scoop out the dough, then roll into balls. Place them 1 inch apart on a lined baking tray, giving them room to spread while baking.
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Flatten the Balls: Gently press down each ball with a wet fork to create a crisscross pattern. This not only adds flair but helps them bake evenly too!
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Bake Until Golden: Bake the cookies for 9–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the tray for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack for complete cooling.
Optional: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an extra special treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dough up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and shape the dough, flatten with a fork, and bake as directed. Additionally, you can pre-roll the cookies into balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; just bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. This approach saves you valuable time on busy weeknights while ensuring your sweet cravings are satisfied with delicious, freshly baked cookies!
Expert Tips for 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
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Choose Quality Peanut Butter: Opt for natural, unsweetened peanut butter to avoid unwanted ingredients. This enhances both flavor and texture.
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Stir Well: Make sure to mix the peanut butter and maple syrup thoroughly for a smooth dough; this ensures even baking and a delightful chewiness.
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Watch Your Baking Time: Check your cookies at 8 minutes to prevent overbaking. They should be slightly golden at the edges; they’ll firm up as they cool.
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Chill the Dough: If the dough is too sticky to handle, place it in the fridge for 10 minutes before shaping. This makes rolling the cookies easier!
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Have Fun with Variations: Feel free to experiment with different nut butters or add-ins like chocolate chips—it’s all about personalizing your 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies!
What to Serve with 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies?
Enhance your dessert experience with these delightful pairings, perfect for completing your cookie moment.
- Coffee: The rich, bold flavors of coffee complement the sweet and nutty notes of the cookies, creating a comforting duo.
- Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea offers a soothing contrast, enhancing the relaxing moments of cookie indulging.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: The bright, refreshing flavors of seasonal fruits provide a lovely balance to the richness of the cookies.
- Dark Chocolate: A few dark chocolate squares alongside the cookies create an irresistible chocolate-peanut butter harmony.
- Nut Milk: Almond or cashew milk adds a creamy texture, making each bite feel both indulgent and wholesome.
When enjoying these cookies, consider serving a fresh fruit salad on the side. The bright, juicy fruits not only add a splash of color but also create a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ rich flavors. It’s the perfect way to balance your sweet treat!
2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and adapt this recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Nut-Free: Swap peanut butter for sunflower seed butter for a delightful allergy-friendly alternative.
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Keto-Friendly: Use sugar-free syrup like monk fruit or stevia to keep this recipe low-carb and suitable for a keto diet.
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Chocolate Lover: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, indulgent twist that perfectly complements the peanut flavor.
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Fruit Infusion: Stir in unsweetened apple sauce or mashed bananas for added moisture and a fruity touch, enhancing both flavor and texture.
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Flavor Enhancement: Mix in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract for an extra aromatic boost that will make your cookies even more delightful.
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Crunchy Texture: Throw in some chopped nuts or oats to add a satisfying crunch and elevate your cookies to new heights.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking a road less traveled by combining flavors! The possibilities are truly endless.
Storage Tips for 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
Fridge: Keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks if you prefer a firmer texture or want to enjoy them colder.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy one of your delightful 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies warm, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy at room temperature!
2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of peanut butter should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the best texture and flavor. Look for a brand that lists peanuts as the only ingredient; this will give you those soft, chewy cookies you crave.
How should I store my cookies?
For optimal freshness, store your 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you prefer a firmer texture, place them in the refrigerator where they’ll stay good for up to 2 weeks!
Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat one, just pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a warm, delightful treat.
Why did my cookies turn out flat?
If your cookies turn out flat, it may be due to slightly overmixing the dough or using peanut butter with added oils. To rectify this in the future, ensure you’re using the right kind of peanut butter and try not to overwork the dough. A quick chill in the fridge for about 10 minutes before shaping can also help them keep their shape while baking.
Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, since the primary ingredient is peanut butter, these delicious 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are not suitable for anyone with nut allergies. However, you can try substituting peanut butter with sun butter or pumpkin seed butter, though this may change the flavor and texture slightly.
Can I add other ingredients to the cookies?
Very much! Feel free to stir in extras like chopped peanuts for a crunch, dark chocolate chips for a sweet touch, or even a splash of vanilla extract for added flavor. Experimenting with flavors makes baking fun—so go ahead and get creative!
Deliciously Simple 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and maple syrup until a smooth dough forms.
- Using a tablespoon, scoop out dough and roll into balls. Place them 1 inch apart on a lined baking tray.
- Gently press down each ball with a wet fork to create a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 9-10 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on tray for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack.