Peanut butter oatmeal cookies are a delightful treat that bring back memories of simpler times, when the kitchen was the heart of the home and the aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the air. This recipe is a nod to the traditional Midwestern baking that I grew up with, where ingredients were straightforward and flavors were comforting. These cookies are crumbly, dense, and grainy, just like the ones my grandmother used to make. They’re perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a taste of nostalgia, or for those who simply love the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter combined with the wholesome goodness of oats.
These cookies are a wonderful companion to a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. For a more balanced snack, enjoy them alongside some fresh fruit, like apple slices or banana. Their hearty texture makes them a satisfying treat on their own, perfect for a cozy afternoon break.
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
Servings: 24 cookies
Ingredients
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup rolled oats
Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Flatten each ball slightly with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations & Tips
For a bit of extra texture and flavor, try adding a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough. If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can drizzle some melted chocolate over the top once they’ve cooled. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also experiment with different types of oats, such as quick oats for a softer texture or steel-cut oats for a chewier bite. Remember, baking is an art as much as it is a science, so feel free to make these cookies your own.