Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Introduction

These healthy peanut butter cookies are simple to make and naturally sweetened with maple syrup. Soft, chewy, and packed with peanut flavor, they make a guilt-free treat perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 1 1/4 cups creamy peanut butter (not too runny)
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and sea salt. Whisk the mixture well. It will start runny and lumpy but will thicken as you mix.
3. Step 3: Refrigerate the dough for 15 to 20 minutes to allow it to firm up.
4. Step 4: Use a medium cookie scoop to drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball with a fork in a crisscross pattern to about 1/4 inch thickness; edges can remain slightly thicker.
5. Step 5: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn very lightly golden but the centers remain slightly underbaked.
6. Step 6: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. They will firm up as they cool for the perfect chewy texture.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, stir in 1/4 cup chopped peanuts before refrigerating the dough.
• Use natural peanut butter without added sugar for a cleaner, healthier cookie.
• If you prefer a sweeter cookie, add a tablespoon more maple syrup, but avoid adding flour or baking powder to keep it simple.

Storage

Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer keeping, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave for a few seconds to soften before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter works well and adds a pleasant texture. Just be aware it will change the cookie’s consistency slightly.

Do I need to add flour or baking soda?

No, this recipe relies on the eggs and peanut butter for structure. It’s flourless and naturally gluten-free, resulting in a soft, chewy cookie.

Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 125 reviews

These Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies are a simple, wholesome treat made with creamy peanut butter, natural maple syrup, and just a few other ingredients. They are lightly sweetened, gluten-free, and perfect for enjoying a guilt-free snack with a chewy texture and rich peanut flavor.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookie Dough

• 1 1/4 cups Creamy peanut butter (not too runny)
• 1/2 cup Maple syrup
• 2 large Eggs
• 1 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp Sea salt (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, and sea salt if using. Whisk the ingredients well. The mixture will appear runny and lumpy initially but will thicken as you continue mixing.
3. Chill Dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle and shape.
4. Shape Cookies: Using a medium cookie scoop, portion out balls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each dough ball gently with a fork in a crisscross pattern to approximately 1/4 inch thickness at the center; edges may remain slightly thicker, which is normal.
5. Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. They should be just lightly golden at the edges and appear slightly underbaked in the center.
6. Cool Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. They will firm up as they cool, resulting in a chewy but set texture.

Notes

• Use creamy peanut butter that is not too runny for best results in dough consistency.
• Refrigeration time is important to avoid spreading of cookies during baking.
• These cookies are naturally gluten-free and can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• For a vegan version, substitute eggs with flax eggs or a suitable egg replacer, though texture may vary.
• Do not overbake; the cookies will look slightly underbaked when done to preserve softness.

Keywords: healthy peanut butter cookies, gluten free cookies, maple syrup cookies, easy healthy cookies, peanut butter dessert