Soft Peanut Butter Cookies

I have not always been a big baker, but the last few months I have learned to like it. I think I was hesitant because you do not get to have a ton of creativity with baking - meaning you actually do need to use precise measurements. I know some people get really into baking and they weigh their ingredients...let's just say that I am not there yet. I will stick to my good ole measuring cups and spoons!

These peanut butter cookies are super soft and packed with that delicious peanut butter flavor. John prefers his peanut butter cookies with chocolate chips, so you get a two for one today. Plain and with chocolate.

Peanut Butter Cookies
Makes 24-30 cookies

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1.5 cups of peanut butter (chunky or smooth - you choose)
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed tight
• 1 egg, room temp
• 1 tbsp vanilla
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1.5 cups flour
• 1-2 cups chocolate chips (optional)

How to make soft peanut butter cookies:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. 
2. In a stand mixer, cream together the butter, peanut butter, and both sugars. 
3. Add the egg and vanilla and continue to mix.
4. In a small bowl, combine the salt, baking soda, and flour. 
5. Turn your mixer on low and slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into your wet ingredients. 
6. If you plan to add chocolate chips, add them at this point. 
7. Shape the dough into 1 to 1.5" balls and arrange on your baking sheet. 
8. Flatten each ball by making an "x" with a fork. Don't smash them, just flatten a bit. 
9. Bake for 9-11 minutes. If you put two trays in at once, rotate them halfway through. 
10. Let rest on your baking sheet for 3-4 minutes before moving to a cooking rack. 

Well, I am off to Viva Las Vegas for the weekend, so i'll catch up next week.

Enjoy!

-H