These Nutty Oat Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter cookie. With the added texture from oats and chopped peanuts, they deliver a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy essence of peanut butter perfectly. Perfect for a quick treat or a thoughtful homemade gift.
Peanut butter is the star here, providing rich flavor and binding the cookies together. Opt for creamy to ensure a smooth texture. Sugar adds sweetness and helps in caramelizing the edges for that perfect golden-brown finish. Egg acts as a binder, holding everything in harmony. A touch of vanilla extract enhances the flavor, adding a hint of warmth. Rolled oats introduce a chewy texture and a bit of heartiness. Baking soda gives a subtle rise, ensuring the cookies aren't too dense. A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the nutty flavors. Finally, chopped peanuts offer a delightful crunch and extra nuttiness.
These cookies are fantastic on their own, but for an indulgent treat, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They also pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of tea. For a fun twist, crumble them over yogurt for a crunchy topping.
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with some parchment paper. This ensures your cookies don't stick and makes cleanup a breeze. In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and sugar. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix until you achieve a smooth, uniform consistency. Next, crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well-blended, with no egg streaks visible.
Now, add in the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. The dough will start to feel a bit thicker at this point. Fold in the chopped peanuts. This is where your cookies get that extra crunchiness and nutty boost. Once mixed, start rolling the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one for spreading.
Time for the classic crisscross pattern! Gently press down each ball with a fork, creating a crosshatch design on top. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You'll know they're ready when the edges turn a lovely golden color. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set and develop that perfect chewy texture as they cool completely.