Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

There’s something undeniably comforting about the smell of fresh cookies wafting through the house. As soon as I pop a batch of Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies into the oven, I can almost hear the warm giggles of my family and friends, eager to sink their teeth into these chewy, peanut buttery morsels.

With every bite, you’re met with a delightful blend of sweetness and that fantastic nutty flavor. The warmth of Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies is not just in taste—it’s in the memories they create, filling your home with joy and deliciousness.

What is Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies?

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies are a rich, chewy twist on the classic American favorite—made entirely without wheat flour. They deliver that nostalgic sweet-salty, nutty bite everyone loves while staying friendly for gluten-free eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

• Rich Flavor: Creamy peanut butter + a hint of sweetness = pure comfort.
• Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples, spectacular results.
• Family-Friendly: Always a hit with kids and adults.
• Quick & Easy: Minimal prep, maximum payoff.

Who It’s For

• Busy Families needing an easy treat.
• Health-Conscious Cooks seeking gluten-free desserts.
• Baking Beginners who want foolproof success.
• Peanut Butter Lovers (of course!).

When to Cook It

• Weeknight Treats for a cozy pick-me-up.
• Gatherings & potlucks to please a crowd.
• Holidays on any cookie tray.
• Cozy Nights with tea or hot chocolate.

How to Make the Perfect Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus more for rolling)
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour (use a 1:1 baking blend with xanthan gum; e.g., King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill)
• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment.
2. Cream butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla until smooth.
4. Whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to the butter mixture; mix just until combined.
5. Scoop ~2 tbsp (about 30 g) dough; roll into balls. Roll in sugar and place 2 inches apart.
6. Press a criss-cross pattern with a fork (dip tines in sugar to prevent sticking).
7. Bake 10–12 minutes, until set and lightly golden at the edges. Cool 5 minutes on the pan, then transfer to a rack.

For People with Diabetes: Sugar Substitutes

Consider allulose, monk fruit, or stevia blends. Avoid honey or maple syrup since they’re high in natural sugars.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls & electric mixer
• Measuring cups & spoons
• Baking sheets & parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Top Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Room-Temp Butter: Ensures easy creaming and better texture.
• Rest Briefly: A short 5–10 minute rest firms dough for cleaner criss-cross marks.
• Watch the Bake: Start checking at 10 minutes for soft, chewy centers.

Storing and Reheating Tips

• Fridge: Airtight container up to 1 week.
• Freezer: Freeze dough balls on a tray, then bag up to 3 months.
• Reheat: 10–15 seconds in the microwave for warm, soft cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing: Mix just until combined for tenderness.
• Too Warm Dough: Chill 10 minutes if dough feels greasy or spreads too fast.
• Packed Flour: Spoon & level to prevent dry, dense cookies.
• Overbaking: Pull when just set—carryover heat finishes them.

FAQs About Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

• Can I use crunchy peanut butter? Yes. It adds great texture.
• Are these cookies vegan? No. They contain egg, but a flax egg can be tested with varied results.
• Can I freeze the baked cookies? Yes. Cool completely, then freeze airtight.
• What if I don’t have gluten-free flour? It depends. Regular flour removes the gluten-free aspect and changes texture.
• How long do they last? About a week in an airtight container at room temperature.

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

Baking these Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies is about more than a sweet treat—it’s about creating warm memories. If you try them, tell me how they turned out and any fun twists you added!

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