If you're a fan of cookies that are both chewy and flavorful, these Chewy Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are going to be your new favorite treat. Perfectly balanced with the richness of peanut butter and the hearty texture of oats, these cookies are an irresistible blend of comfort and indulgence.
The secret to these cookies is in the balance of flavors and textures. Butter provides a rich base and helps the cookies stay soft. Creamy peanut butter adds a nutty taste and chewy texture, while the blend of granulated sugar and brown sugar gives just the right amount of sweetness and a touch of moisture. A large egg binds all the ingredients together, and vanilla extract adds a subtle depth of flavor. All-purpose flour provides structure, while baking soda ensures the cookies rise nicely. A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, and finally, rolled oats give these cookies their characteristic chewiness.
These cookies are delightful on their own, but for an extra treat, pair them with a cold glass of almond milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They're also lovely when crumbled over yogurt or oatmeal for breakfast.
First, you'll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get your baking sheet ready by lining it with parchment paper. This setup prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. You'll want to mix until it's light and fluffy. This step is crucial for getting that perfect texture, so don't rush it.
Next, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. The batter should look smooth and creamy at this point.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and salt throughout the dough.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. You don't want to overmix here; just enough to incorporate the flour.
Stir in the rolled oats until they're evenly distributed. The dough will be thick, but that's what makes these cookies hearty and satisfying.
Drop tablespoonfuls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This gives them room to spread as they bake.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. This timing ensures a chewy center with a perfectly crisp edge.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This short wait helps them firm up without overbaking.