Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

Name: Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 cups rolled oats; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; A pinch of salt

Indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade peanut butter oatmeal cookies. These cookies are not only easy to make but also pack a hearty punch with the goodness of oats and the richness of peanut butter. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a delightful treat for kids and adults alike, these cookies are sure to become a household favorite.

Ingredients

– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– A pinch of salt

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each cookie (approx. 30g) contains about 120 calories, 5g protein, 15g carbohydrates, 6g fat, and 2g fiber. This information is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter and brown sugar until smooth.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the peanut butter mixture.
6. Stir until fully combined and a dough forms.
7. Using a tablespoon, scoop dough onto a lined baking sheet.
8. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a fork.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a nut-free option, or use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile. Gluten-free oats can also be used for a gluten-free version.

Serving and Pairings

These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. They can also be served alongside fresh fruit for a balanced snack.

Storage and Reheating

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to three months. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a warm treat.

Cooking Mistakes

– Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the texture.
– Overbaking will make cookies hard and dry.
– Skipping the cooling step can lead to crumbly cookies.
– Using natural peanut butter can cause cookies to spread too much.
– Forgetting to preheat the oven may result in uneven baking.

Helpful Tips

– Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth dough.
– Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
– Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
– Keep an eye on the cookies to prevent overbaking.

FAQs

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) to make the recipe vegan.

How can I make these cookies healthier?

Consider using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, and add in some chia seeds for extra fiber and nutrition.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

What should I do if my cookies are too crumbly?

If your cookies are crumbly, try adding a teaspoon of milk to the dough to help bind it together.

How long do these cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to a week at room temperature, or three months in the freezer.

Conclusion

These peanut butter oatmeal cookies are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them a perfect treat for any occasion. Easy to make and versatile, they are sure to please everyone in the family. Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious recipe!