Sometimes you just want to bake something without having to think too much about it. No long list of ingredients, no complicated steps, and definitely no extra trips to the shop. That’s exactly where these peanut butter cookies come in.
This is one of those recipes that feels almost too simple, but it genuinely works. With just three ingredients, you can have a batch of soft, slightly chewy cookies ready in no time. It’s perfect for busy days, baking with kids, or those moments when you just fancy something homemade.
It’s also a great one to keep in mind when your cupboards are looking a bit bare, as you probably already have everything you need.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this recipe is how straightforward it is. Peanut butter does most of the work here, bringing both flavour and texture, so you don’t need lots of extra ingredients.
Because there are so few ingredients, there’s less to go wrong, which makes it ideal if you’re new to baking or just want something quick and reliable. It’s also one of the easiest recipes to make with children, as the steps are simple and easy to follow.
If you enjoy quick bakes like this, I have plenty more simple recipe ideas that are perfect to make.
Ingredients
- 200g peanut butter
- 150g sugar
- 1 egg
That’s it. No flour, no butter, no extras needed.
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and lining a baking tray with baking paper.
- In a bowl, mix together the peanut butter, sugar, and egg until everything is fully combined. The mixture should come together into a soft dough.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place them on the tray, leaving a bit of space between each one.
- Use a fork to gently press each ball down, creating the classic criss-cross pattern on top.
- Bake for around 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden.
- Leave the cookies to cool on the tray for a few minutes before moving them, as they will be soft straight out of the oven.
Tips for the Best Cookies
Because this recipe is so simple, small details can make a difference.
Try to use a good quality peanut butter, as it really affects the flavour. Smooth peanut butter works best, but crunchy can be used if you like a bit of texture.
Don’t overbake them. They will firm up as they cool, so it’s better to take them out slightly soft than leave them in too long.
If you want to change things slightly, you can add chocolate chips or a pinch of salt, but they work perfectly well as they are.
Why These Are Great for Baking with Kids
This recipe is ideal if you want to bake with children without the stress. There are only a few ingredients, the steps are simple, and there’s plenty for them to get involved with.
Kids can help with mixing, rolling the dough, and pressing the cookies down with a fork. It’s quick enough to hold their attention, which makes the whole experience much more enjoyable.
It’s also a nice way to build confidence in the kitchen without things feeling overwhelming.
How to Store Peanut Butter Cookies
Once cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container. They will usually stay fresh for around 3 to 4 days.
You can also freeze them if you want to make a batch ahead of time. Just let them cool completely before freezing.
Final Thoughts
These 3 ingredient peanut butter cookies are proof that baking doesn’t need to be complicated to be good. They’re quick, easy, and always turn out well.
Whether you’re baking with kids, short on time, or just want something simple, this is a recipe that’s well worth keeping on hand.
Once you’ve made them once, you’ll probably find yourself coming back to them again and again.
FAQs
- Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
- Yes, it works just as well and adds a bit of texture.
- Why are my cookies falling apart?
- They may need a little longer to cool. They firm up as they set.
- Can I make these without sugar?
- The sugar helps with texture, so removing it will change the result.
- Are these good for kids to make?
- Yes, they’re one of the easiest recipes to make with children.
