Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour (1 cup)
• Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon)
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened)
• Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup)
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup)
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed)
• Egg (1)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until well combined, ensuring a smooth texture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Using a fork, gently press down on each dough ball to create a crisscross pattern, ensuring not to flatten them too much.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set.
9. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze for later enjoyment.