The moment I unwrapped the jar of peanut butter from the pantry, I knew something special was about to happen. There’s an unmistakable comfort in the rich aroma that fills the kitchen as the ingredients begin to come together. With just three simple components—peanut butter, sugar, and an egg—I’m about to transform this humble spread into irresistible cookies that melt in your mouth.
Perfect for those cozy nights when you crave something sweet yet easy to whip up, these cookies provide a guilt-free indulgence that’s gluten-free and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or thinking of tossing in some chocolate chips or a sprinkle of sea salt, the possibilities are delightful. So, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s embark on a baking adventure that will leave you smiling and satisfied in no time!

Why choose this Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe?
Simplicity at Its Best: You’ll be amazed at how just three ingredients can create such deliciousness. Gluten-Free Delight: Perfect for gluten-sensitive diets—no flour needed! Quick & Easy: Ideal for busy evenings when you need a sweet treat without the fuss. Customizable Options: Whether you’re adding chocolate chips or using almond butter, these cookies can match any palate. Perfect for Sharing: Whip up a batch for a friend or family gathering; they’re sure to impress, especially when paired with coffee or milk!
Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Ingredients
Get ready to bake some delightful cookies with just three simple ingredients!
For the Cookies
- Peanut Butter – This key ingredient adds that rich flavor and moisture; choose creamy or chunky based on your preference.
- Sugar – Essential for sweetness and texture—granulated sugar is the go-to, but feel free to swap in brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Egg – This ingredient acts as the binding agent, giving your cookies the perfect consistency; a large egg works best for a perfect blend.
Optional Add-Ins
- Chocolate Chips – Add ½ cup for a chocolaty twist that elevates your cookies to new heights; make sure they’re gluten-free if needed.
- Almond Butter – Swap out peanut butter for almond butter if you’re looking for a nutty alternative; it also keeps the recipe gluten-free!
- Sea Salt – A sprinkle on top before baking adds a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
Now that you have the ingredients ready, it’s time to create some magic in your kitchen with this Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe!
How to Make Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
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Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 egg. Stir the mixture until it’s smooth and well blended, which should take just a minute or two.
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Scoop Dough: Using a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of cookie dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Leave about two inches of space between each ball to allow for spreading while baking.
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Flatten Dough: Gently press each dough ball with the tines of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on top. This step not only adds a nice touch but helps them bake evenly.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Watch for a lightly golden color around the edges to know they’re done!
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Cool: Once out of the oven, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack.
Optional: Serve warm with a glass of milk for an extra special treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
- Mix Well: Ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined for a smooth consistency; this prevents any clumps in your cookies.
- Proper Cooling: Don’t rush the cooling process; cookies need time on the baking sheet to firm up before transferring to avoid crumbling.
- Watch Baking Time: Check your cookies at the 10-minute mark; every oven is different, and you want them golden but not overbaked.
- Flour-Free Variations: If you’re substituting, remember that any add-ins like chocolate chips must be gluten-free to maintain the integrity of this gluten-free recipe.
- Egg Substitution: For a vegan option, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed meal mix (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for similar binding.
Storage Tips for Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and chewy.
Refrigerator: If you prefer a firmer texture, place the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in a sealed container.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, spaced apart, to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm cookie again, microwave for about 10-15 seconds. They’ll taste just like homemade!
Three Ingredient Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious recipe and make it your own!
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Crunchy Twist: Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture and a delightful bite. It gives your cookies a unique twist that contrasts beautifully with their soft center.
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Almond Butter: Swap peanut butter with almond butter for a nutty flavor profile. This small change keeps your cookies gluten-free and introduces a whole new taste sensation!
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Chocolate Chips: Add ½ cup of gluten-free chocolate chips into the dough for a rich, decadent version. The melted chocolate pieces create delightful pockets of sweetness in every bite.
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Sea Salt Sprinkles: Just before baking, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top for a savory contrast. It elevates the flavor, making every mouthful even more enjoyable!
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Maple Sweetness: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup for a natural sweetener twist. Just reduce the peanut butter slightly to maintain the right consistency.
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Coconut Flakes: Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with peanut butter. These cookies will taste like a sunny day!
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder for those who love a sweet and spicy balance. It’s a surprising and delightful contrast you’ll love.
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Nutty Additions: Toss in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch that complements the chewiness of the cookie. This variation adds both texture and flavor for nut lovers!
Make Ahead Options
These Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container; this not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re pressed for time on baking day, you can even scoop the cookie dough onto a baking sheet, chill for up to 3 days, and simply bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy. When it’s time to serve, just pop them into a preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden. This way, you’ll have warm, homemade cookies on demand, just as delicious as the day you made the dough!
What to Serve with Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies?
Elevate your cookie experience by pairing these delightful peanut butter treats with complementary flavors and textures.
- Cold Milk: The classic pairing! A glass of chilled milk enhances the creamy peanut butter and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Rich Coffee: Enjoy your cookies with a cup of freshly brewed coffee. The bitterness of coffee beautifully contrasts the sweetness, creating a perfect afternoon delight.
- Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: For an indulgent treat, dip your cookies in chocolate hazelnut spread. The creamy richness adds depth to the peanut flavor.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh sliced apples or bananas to add a refreshing touch and a hint of acidity that complements the cookie’s sweetness.
- Ice Cream: Top a warm cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. The cold creaminess creates a wonderful contrast with the warm, chewy cookies.
- Sea Salt Sprinkles: If you enjoy salted desserts, finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to elevate the flavor. It adds a delightful crunch and balances the sweetness.
- Homemade Hot Chocolate: Cozy up with a warm cup of homemade hot chocolate alongside your cookies. The rich, chocolatey flavor makes for a comforting treat on chilly evenings.
- Nutella: Another rich option! Spread a little Nutella on a warm cookie for an extra layer of flavor. It’s a match made in dessert heaven.
- Chai Tea: Pair with a cup of spiced chai tea for a warming and aromatic experience that complements the nutty flavor of the cookies perfectly.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For an exotic twist, serve with coconut whipped cream. The tropical flavor plays well with the nuttiness of the peanut butter cookies.

Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of peanut butter should I use?
Absolutely! You can use either creamy or chunky peanut butter, depending on your texture preference. Creamy peanut butter will yield a smoother cookie, while chunky adds delightful bites of texture. Just ensure it’s not too oily, as that can affect consistency.
How should I store the cookies?
Very simple! Store your Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or freeze them for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag. Just make sure they are spaced apart to prevent sticking!
Can I freeze the dough before baking?
Yes, you can! To freeze your cookie dough, scoop rounded balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer the balls to a freezer-safe container. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply add a minute or two to the baking time when they go directly from the freezer into the preheated oven.
How do I troubleshoot if my cookies are too crumbly?
If your cookies are turning out crumbly, it might be due to not mixing the ingredients well enough or using too much sugar. Ensure that your peanut butter, sugar, and egg are mixed thoroughly to form a cohesive dough. If the dough feels dry, consider adding a tiny splash of milk or an extra egg to help bind the ingredients better.
Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Not at all! These cookies, made using peanut butter, are not safe for individuals with nut allergies. If you want a nut-free alternative, you might try substituting the peanut butter with sun butter (made from sunflower seeds) or a seed butter of your choice; however, it will change the flavor profile a bit. Always double-check labels to ensure safety for allergies!

Irresistible Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of peanut butter, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 egg. Mix until smooth.
- Using a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Press each dough ball with a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.



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