Table of Contents: 4 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies
Introduction: 4 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies
Who knew something as simple as peanut butter could transform into soft, chewy, melt-in-your-mouth cookies with just four ingredients? These 4 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies are the ultimate quick-fix treat—no flour, no butter, and no fuss! Whether you’re craving a last-minute dessert, need a kid-friendly baking project, or just want a foolproof cookie recipe, this one’s a winner.
Fun fact: Peanut butter cookies became popular in the early 1900s when peanut butter itself gained fame as an affordable protein source. Now, they’re a nostalgic favorite, and this ultra-simple version skips all the complicated steps while keeping that rich, nutty flavor.
If you love easy recipes like our 3-Ingredient Shortbread Cookies, you’ll adore these even more—because who can resist cookies that come together in minutes? Let’s bake the easiest (and most delicious) peanut butter cookies you’ll ever make!
What Are 4 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies?
Ever wondered how a cookie with just peanut butter, sugar, an egg, and vanilla can taste so good? No flour, no butter—just pure peanut butter magic! Some say the secret is in the simplicity (or maybe it’s the way your kitchen smells while they bake).
Legend has it that the classic fork-pressed peanut butter cookie design was invented to help them bake evenly—but we like to think it’s also to make them extra cute. After all, as the old saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and honestly, these cookies might just steal everyone’s heart. Ready to find out why? Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Just 4 ingredients – No pantry raid required!
✅ Ready in under 20 minutes – Faster than a grocery store run.
✅ Naturally gluten-free – Perfect for those avoiding flour.
Compared to traditional peanut butter cookies (which often require chilling and extra ingredients), this version is quicker, cheaper, and just as delicious. And since you control the sugar, you can make them as sweet or as subtle as you like.
Love easy treats? Try our 2-Ingredient Peanut Butter Fudge next—but first, let’s make these irresistible cookies!
How to Make 4 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Difficulty: Super easy
- Key Perk: No mixer needed—just a bowl and a spoon!
Key Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular, but avoid oily varieties)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (or coconut sugar for a less refined option)
- 1 large egg (helps bind the cookies)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for extra flavor depth)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix ingredients – In a bowl, stir together peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Scoop dough – Roll into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet.
- Flatten with a fork – Press gently in a crisscross pattern (classic peanut butter cookie style!).
- Bake for 10-12 mins until edges are golden. Let cool—they’ll firm up as they sit.
What to Serve With Peanut Butter Cookies
- A cold glass of milk (the ultimate pairing!)
- Vanilla ice cream (for an easy cookie sandwich)
- Fresh berries (to balance the richness)
Top 5 Tips for Perfect Cookies
- Use room-temperature egg – Helps the dough blend smoothly.
- Don’t overbake – They firm up as they cool!
- Try crunchy PB – For extra texture.
- Add chocolate chips – Because why not?
- Store in an airtight container – Keeps them soft for days.
Storing & Reheating Tips
- Room temp: 3-4 days in a sealed container.
- Freeze: Up to 3 months (thaw before eating).
- Reheat: 5 sec in the microwave for a warm, gooey bite!
FAQs: 4 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies

Q: Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just make sure it’s well-stirred (not overly oily or dry) for the best texture.
Q: Can I make these cookies without eggs?
A: For an egg-free version, try a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water, let sit for 5 mins).
Q: Why are my cookies too crumbly?
A: This usually happens if the dough is under-mixed or if the peanut butter is too dry. Add a splash of milk if needed.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar?
A: Absolutely! Try ¾ cup sugar for a less sweet version—they’ll still hold together well.
Q: How do I make these cookies extra soft?
A: Bake for just 8-9 minutes—they’ll stay extra chewy!
Conclusion: 4 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies
There you have it—the easiest, most irresistible 4 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies you’ll ever make! With just a bowl, a spoon, and a few pantry staples, you can whip up a batch of these soft, nutty treats in no time.
Whether you’re baking with kids, need a last-minute dessert, or just want a simple sweet fix, this recipe never fails. Plus, with our 5 pro tips, you’ll get perfect cookies every single time.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab that peanut butter jar and start baking—your future self (and anyone lucky enough to try these) will thank you!
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THE BEST 4 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 18–20 cookies 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
“These 4 Ingredients Peanut Butter Cookies are the easiest, chewiest cookies you’ll ever make—no flour, no butter, just peanut buttery perfection! Ready in 15 minutes and loved by kids and adults alike.”
Ingredients
- 1 cup (250g) creamy peanut butter (not natural/oily)
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
(Optional: Pinch of salt if using unsalted PB, or chocolate chips for extra indulgence.)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix dough: In a bowl, stir together peanut butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- Shape: Roll dough into 1-inch balls (about 18–20), place on the sheet, and flatten with a fork in a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden. Cool for 5 mins before transferring.
Notes
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months.
- Substitutes: Use coconut sugar for a less refined option or almond butter for a nut-free version.
- Pro Tip: For softer cookies, bake for 9 minutes!
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dessert, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 55mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: 4 ingredient peanut butter cookies, easy peanut butter cookies, gluten-free cookies