If you’re after a quick, nostalgic treat with melt-in-your-mouth magic, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite: Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies. With their signature fork-pressed pattern and a deeply nutty aroma wafting from the oven, these cookies are simple to make yet full of comfort. Every bite brings a perfect balance of sweet and salty, plus a soft crumb that’s just irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a potluck, a lunchbox surprise, or a cozy night in, this classic never fails to delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I adore about these cookies is how a handful of pantry staples come together to create something utterly special. Each ingredient has its job—think creamy richness, just-right sweetness, and a hint of vanilla to tie it all together. Here’s what you’ll need, and why:
- Peanut Butter (1 cup, creamy): This is the foundation, giving luscious flavor and that crave-worthy chew; use creamy for smoothness or crunchy for extra texture.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup): Provides essential sweetness and helps the cookies set with slightly crisp edges.
- Large Egg (1): Acts as a binder, lending structure and chewiness in every bite.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): A dash of vanilla amplifies the peanut butter and adds a delightful warmth.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just enough to balance the sweetness and make the flavors pop.
How to Make Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze. By getting your oven ready and surface prepped, you set yourself up for smooth, stress-free baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir everything together with a sturdy spoon or spatula. The dough will look glossy and cohesive—no flour needed, which also makes these Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies naturally gluten-free!
Step 3: Shape Into Balls
Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and gently roll them between your palms to form smooth balls. Place these, evenly spaced, on the prepared baking sheet. Rolling your dough helps create cookies that bake up with beautiful, uniform edges.
Step 4: Make the Iconic Criss Cross Pattern
The signature look of Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies comes from a simple trick: Press a fork into each dough ball first one way, then again at a 90-degree angle, creating the classic crisscross grid. This not only flattens the cookies for even baking, but also adds that unmistakable, charming design.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, just until the edges are set and the tops look dry—not glossy. Resist the urge to overbake; the cookies will firm up as they cool. Let them rest on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This rest time ensures they hold their shape and achieve the perfect, tender texture.
How to Serve Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies
Garnishes
For a fun touch, try sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on top right after baking—the contrast is heavenly. If you’re a chocolate fan, press a chocolate chip or two into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. You can also dust them with a little powdered sugar for a bakery-worthy finish.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine alongside a cold glass of milk, an iced coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For dessert platters, they pair beautifully with chocolate-dipped fruit, a bowl of mixed berries, or a few squares of rich dark chocolate. Their sweet-salty profile complements almost any treat you serve with them.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack a few Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies in a mason jar and wrap with a ribbon for a heartfelt edible gift. Arrange them in a ring on a serving platter with a drizzle of melted chocolate in the center for dunking. Or, crumble them over yogurt or ice cream for a quick, homemade dessert everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stash cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them extra fresh, layer with parchment or wax paper. They stay soft and flavorful, perfect for packing lunches or snacking whenever the craving strikes.
Freezing
Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies freeze like a dream! Place them in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. You can also freeze the unbaked dough balls—just thaw and bake as needed. It doesn’t get easier than having homemade cookies on standby.
Reheating
If you prefer your cookies slightly warm, just pop a couple in the microwave for 8-10 seconds. They’ll come out soft and fragrant, like they’re fresh from the oven. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them too soft or tough.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe?
Yes! Natural peanut butter works well, but make sure it’s well-stirred so the oil is fully incorporated. Natural varieties tend to produce a slightly crumblier cookie, so don’t worry if the texture changes a bit—it will still be absolutely delicious.
Can I double or halve this recipe?
Absolutely. This recipe scales up or down beautifully. If you’re baking for a crowd or just want a smaller batch, adjust the ingredient amounts accordingly—the results will be just as tasty.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! One of the best things about Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies is that they are naturally gluten-free, thanks to the absence of flour. Just double-check your peanut butter and vanilla for any hidden gluten ingredients if you’re highly sensitive.
Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts?
Of course! Feel free to stir in half a cup of chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even dried fruit for something different. Just be mindful not to add too many extras, as this dough is already deliciously rich.
Why do I need to make the crisscross pattern with a fork?
The crisscross creates classic visual appeal and helps the cookies bake evenly by flattening the dough. It also gives Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies their recognizable look and irresistible charm.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried making Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies, now’s the perfect time. They’re simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to perk up any day. Gather your ingredients, invite someone to bake with, and share the warm, peanut-y goodness—there’s nothing better than homemade cookies from the heart.
Print
Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 18 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Criss Cross Peanut Butter Cookies are a simple and delicious treat that can be whipped up in no time. Made with just a few basic ingredients, these gluten-free cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Cookies:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt until fully combined.
- Form dough balls: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Crisscross pattern: Use a fork to press a crisscross pattern into each cookie, flattening them slightly.
- Bake: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are set and tops look dry.
- Cool: Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- You can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- For a chocolate twist, press a chocolate chip into the center after baking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
