Name: Chewy Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies for Guilt-Free Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 large Egg (Can replace with a flax egg for a vegan version (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).); ⅔ cup Brown Sugar (Light or dark works; can use coconut sugar for lower glycemic index.); ¼ cup Granulated Sugar (Can replace with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative.); 2 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract (Use vanilla bean paste for a richer taste.); ½ tsp Baking Soda (Essential for slight rising during baking.); ¼ tsp Kosher Salt; 1 cup Peanut Butter (Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or oils.); ½ cup Chocolate or Peanut Butter Chips (Optional mix-in for extra sweetness.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, a touch of anxiety crept in; I thought about the cravings that often lead me away from wholesome food. But then I discovered these Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies, and it felt like a revelation! With their rich peanut butter flavor and delightfully chewy texture, they’re a game-changer for anyone looking for a quick and easy gluten-free treat. Made with just a handful of ingredients, these cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also fit beautifully into a health-conscious lifestyle. Plus, the best part? You can customize them with your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips or dried fruit, making each batch uniquely yours. Who knew that creating a guilt-free indulgence could be so simple? Are you ready to bake your new favorite cookie?

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: Each bite of these Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies is a burst of rich peanut butter goodness that will leave you craving more.

Quick and Easy: You’ll love how simple they are to make, taking only a few minutes to whip up and bake.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even nuts – the possibilities are endless for a personalized treat!

Guilt-Free Indulgence: With no flour and less sugar, they fit perfectly into a health-conscious lifestyle while satisfying your sweet cravings.

Perfect for Everyone: Whether you’re gluten-free or simply seeking a better dessert option, these cookies are a fantastic choice for everyone. Don’t forget to pair them with a glass of milk or check out our mouthwatering Cajun Honey Butter Salmon for a full meal experience!

Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• Large Egg – Provides structure and moisture. Substitution: Can replace with a flax egg for a vegan version (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).
• Brown Sugar (⅔ cup) – Packed for sweetness; light or dark works. Substitution: Coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic index option.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup) – Enhances sweetness. Substitution: Coconut sugar or a sugar alternative can replace for lower sugar content.
• Pure Vanilla Extract (2 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor. Substitution: Use vanilla bean paste for a richer taste.
• Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Essential for slight rising during baking.
• Kosher Salt (¼ tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Peanut Butter (1 cup) – Main flavor; choose creamy or crunchy for texture. Notes: Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or oils.
• Chocolate or Peanut Butter Chips (½ cup) – Optional mix-in for extra sweetness.

These Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies are not just delightful but also a perfectly simple way to indulge guilt-free!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Whisk Ingredients Together
In a medium bowl, whisk together one large egg, ⅔ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Add ½ teaspoon of baking soda and ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt, stirring to incorporate them evenly. This creates a sweet base for your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies.

Step 2: Incorporate Peanut Butter
Gently fold in 1 cup of creamy or crunchy peanut butter into the egg mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Your goal is to achieve a creamy, cohesive dough that highlights the rich flavor of the peanut butter. Take your time, as this step is essential to ensure all ingredients meld beautifully.

Step 3: Add Optional Mix-Ins
If desired, stir in ½ cup of chocolate or peanut butter chips into the dough for an extra touch of sweetness and texture. This step is perfect for personalizing your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies; feel free to get creative with other mix-ins like dried fruit or chopped nuts for even more variety.

Step 4: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and prevents excessive spreading during baking, ensuring your cookies maintain a delightful chewy texture when they come out of the oven.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven
While your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking, creating a perfect base for your cookies. As the oven heats, this is a great time to prepare your cookie sheet for hassle-free baking.

Step 6: Portion the Dough
Once chilled, use a tablespoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each mound to allow for spreading. The cookies will expand slightly as they bake, so spacing is key to getting perfectly shaped Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Cookies are done when the edges are set and the centers are still soft—this will keep your cookies chewy. Keep an eye on them as they bake, as every oven varies slightly!

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step allows them to firm up slightly without becoming too hard, resulting in the perfect texture for your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies.

What to Serve with Irresistibly Chewy Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

These delightful cookies bring warmth and joy to any gathering, and pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your treat experience.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The rich, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream perfectly contrasts the chewy cookies, creating a delectable bite.
Fresh Berries: A refreshing mix of strawberries and blueberries adds a burst of color and a tangy balance to the sweetness of the cookies. It’s a fruity accompaniment that awakens the palate.
Rich Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a comforting mug of hot chocolate, whose velvety chocolate balance pairs seamlessly with your cookies, making them feel even more decadent.
Coffee or Espresso: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed cup of coffee enhance the peanut butter nuances, creating a cozy moment to savor. This pairing is especially pleasing during afternoon breaks.
Coconut Whipped Cream: For a tropical touch, serve topped with light and airy coconut whipped cream, which adds a subtle sweetness and plush texture.
Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy, nutty trail mix alongside the soft cookies provides varied textures, making your snack experience exciting and satisfying.

Let your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies shine with these delightful pairings, transforming your treats into a feast of flavors!

Storage Tips for Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to maintain their chewy texture and rich flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 10 days—just remember to allow them to come to room temperature when ready to enjoy!

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating: To refresh the cookies, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds; this will bring back their soft, irresistible quality! Enjoy your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies!

Expert Tips for Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes is essential to prevent excessive spreading while baking.

• Measure Accurately: Ensure ingredient proportions are correct, particularly the baking soda, as it is vital for the cookie structure.

• Peanut Butter Choice: Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or oils for the best flavor and texture in your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies.

• Mix-In Ideas: Feel free to experiment with mix-ins like dried fruit or nuts, but keep the total volume similar to maintain cookie consistency.

• Watch Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so check cookies at the 8-minute mark to ensure they’re soft in the center and perfectly chewy.

Make Ahead Options

These Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first few steps of the recipe, then cover the dough and refrigerate it to ensure it maintains its texture and flavor. If you’d like to prep even further ahead, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the portions onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for delicious cookies that are just as irresistible! Enjoy those time-saving benefits on busy weeknights!

Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies Variations

Feel free to play with flavors and textures to make these cookies uniquely yours!

Nut-Free: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a delicious nut-free alternative. You’ll still enjoy that creamy texture without allergens.
Low-Sugar: Replace brown and granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative to lower the sweetness while keeping a delightful flavor profile.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Add ½ cup of dark chocolate chips or chunks for a rich, decadent twist. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is truly irresistible!
Crunch Factor: Mix in chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to add a delightful crunch. This variation brings exciting texture and a nutritional boost.
Fruity Addition: Toss in dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy sweetness that pairs beautifully with peanut butter. This twist adds a burst of flavor!
Flavor Enhancer: Use vanilla bean paste instead of pure vanilla extract for an even richer taste experience that elevates these cookies further.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or even a dash of cayenne pepper to your cookie dough for a warm, comforting spice that really packs a punch.

And if you’re craving more inspiration, don’t forget to whip up a batch of Chocolate Chip Cookies or try our flavorful Garlic Lemon Butter Salmon as a main course for a delightful meal!

Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best type of peanut butter to use?
I recommend using natural peanut butter without added sugar or oils for the richest flavor and best texture. Creamy or crunchy both work well, depending on your preference and the chewiness you desire!

How should I store leftover cookies?
Store your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For a firmer texture, refrigerate them for up to 10 days—just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze your cookies for up to 3 months. Individually wrap each cookie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Why did my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies spread excessively, it could be due to the dough not being chilled long enough. Try chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes next time, as this step helps maintain the shape during baking.

Are these cookies safe for people with nut allergies?
No, Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies contain peanut butter, making them unsuitable for individuals with nut allergies. However, you can substitute sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! To make these cookies vegan, replace the large egg with a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens, then use it as a substitute in the recipe to bind the ingredients together.