Peanut butter cookies are a classic treat that brings a smile to everyone’s face. With a soft, chewy texture and a rich peanut flavor, these cookies are elevated by a creamy peanut butter filling that adds an extra layer of indulgence. The best part? They are made in an air fryer, which means you can enjoy these delightful cookies with less oil and in a fraction of the time it takes to bake them in a traditional oven.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Secondly, the air fryer creates a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and gooey. Finally, the peanut butter filling adds a delicious surprise that will make these cookies a favorite among family and friends. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to impress.
Introduction
Cookies have a way of evoking nostalgia, and peanut butter cookies are no exception. They remind us of childhood treats, family gatherings, and cozy afternoons spent with loved ones. This recipe takes the classic peanut butter cookie and gives it a modern twist by using an air fryer, which not only speeds up the cooking process but also reduces the amount of oil needed. The result is a batch of cookies that are crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and filled with a luscious peanut butter center. Perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings or sharing with friends, these cookies are a must-try!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter (plus ¼ cup for filling)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of smooth peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and the egg. Using a hand mixer or a sturdy spatula, mix the ingredients until they are smooth and creamy. This step is crucial as it ensures that all the sugars are well incorporated, which will help in achieving the perfect texture.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
Once the mixture is smooth, stir in the baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. The baking soda will help the cookies rise slightly, while the vanilla extract adds depth to the flavor. Mix until fully incorporated, ensuring there are no dry spots left.
Step 3: Create the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the extra ¼ cup of peanut butter with a teaspoon of powdered sugar. This will create a creamy, slightly thicker filling that will sit inside each cookie. Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to your taste, depending on how sweet you want the filling to be.
Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop out the cookie dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten the ball slightly in your hand, then place a small dollop (about ½ teaspoon) of the peanut butter filling in the center. Carefully fold the dough around the filling, sealing it completely. Roll the filled dough ball gently to smooth it out, ensuring no filling is visible.
Step 5: Flatten and Decorate
Place the filled dough balls in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is enough space between each cookie to allow for expansion. Using a fork, gently press a crisscross pattern onto the top of each ball, which not only adds a decorative touch but also helps them cook evenly.
Air Fry:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cook the cookies in batches for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and slightly crisp. Be cautious not to overcrowd the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
Cool and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the cookies from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for 5–10 minutes. The gooey filling will firm up slightly as they cool but will remain deliciously luscious.
Serving Suggestions:
These peanut butter cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them further by drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on top. They pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a cup of coffee, making them perfect for an afternoon snack or dessert.
Tips:
- For an extra decadent twist, consider adding chocolate chips to the cookie dough for a chocolate-peanut butter combination.
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can substitute half of the smooth peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter.
- Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days—but they’ll likely disappear much sooner!
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 120 calories per cookie
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 75mg
Conclusion
These Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter with a modern cooking method. With a soft, chewy texture and a creamy filling, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just for yourself, this recipe is simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying. So gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and indulge in these delectable cookies today!
Questions and Answers
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?
Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture. Just keep in mind that it may alter the consistency of the dough slightly.
2. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. However, they are best enjoyed fresh!
3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough balls before cooking. Just shape them and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, cook them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
4. What can I use if I don’t have an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. Just keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
5. Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Yes, chocolate chips would make a delicious addition! Simply fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips into the dough before shaping the cookies.