Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
You may not know that the simple three-ingredient peanut butter cookie has a rich history dating back to the 1930s. While the recipe is straightforward, the balance of flavors creates a surprisingly delightful treat. Packed with protein from the peanut butter and a touch of sweetness from the sugar, these cookies offer a nutritious indulgence. Intrigued? Let's explore the recipe and uncover why this classic dessert continues to delight bakers and connoisseurs alike.
History
Although the exact origins of peanut butter cookies are unknown, they've been a beloved baked treat for generations.
Peanut butter, a key ingredient, dates back to the Aztecs and Incas, who ground peanuts into a paste. Over time, the recipe evolved, incorporating sugar and flour to create the classic peanut butter cookie.
These simple yet delicious cookies gained popularity in the early 20th century, becoming a staple in American households. Today, they remain a cherished comfort food, enjoyed for their rich, nutty flavor and satisfying texture.
The enduring appeal of peanut butter cookies is a proof of their timeless appeal and the way they've become woven into the fabric of culinary tradition.
Recipe
Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. These cookies are soft and chewy, with a rich peanut butter flavor that's simply irresistible.
The key to perfect peanut butter cookies is to use high-quality peanut butter and not to overmix the dough. This will guarantee that your cookies have the perfect texture and don't become too dense or dry.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
To guarantee that your peanut butter cookies have the classic criss-cross pattern, use a fork to gently press down on each ball of dough before baking. This will also help the cookies to spread out and become perfectly shaped.
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they're lightly golden around the edges. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Guide
While these delectable cookies may satisfy your sweet cravings, it's important to contemplate their nutritional profile. A single peanut butter cookie contains approximately 100 calories, with the majority coming from fat and carbohydrates.
However, these cookies do offer some health benefits, as peanut butter is a good source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. The calorie breakdown is roughly 60% fat, 30% carbohydrates, and 10% protein.
Moderation is key, as these cookies should be enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple. Striking a balance between indulgence and nutritional awareness can help you make informed choices about incorporating these cookies into your overall healthy lifestyle.
Final Thought
Ultimately, you can enjoy these cookies in moderation as part of an overall balanced diet.
When baking, remember to follow the recipe closely and use high-quality ingredients for the best results. You can also experiment with cookie variations, such as adding chocolate chips or rolling the dough in cinnamon sugar before baking.
Regardless of the additions, it's important to keep portion sizes in mind and focus on the nutritional value of the whole diet, rather than any single food.
With a little care and consideration, these peanut butter cookies can be a delightful treat that fits within a healthy lifestyle.
