Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Who doesn’t love a warm, freshly baked peanut butter cookie? They’re a classic treat that never fails to satisfy that sweet tooth. And now, with the help of an air fryer, you can enjoy these delicious cookies in a fraction of the time it takes to bake them in the oven. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make perfectly crispy yet tender peanut butter cookies using your air fryer. Get ready to indulge in this delightful dessert!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the cookies cook evenly and have that perfect golden-brown color.

Step 2: Prepare the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well combined and the dough comes together.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Take about a tablespoon of cookie dough and roll it into a ball between your palms. Place the cookie dough ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Repeat this step for the remaining dough, leaving a few inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 4: Flatten the Cookies

Using a fork, gently press down on each cookie dough ball to create a crisscross pattern. This not only gives the cookies their classic peanut butter cookie look but also helps them cook more evenly.

Step 5: Air Fry the Cookies

Now it’s time to air fry the cookies! Place the baking sheet with the cookies into the preheated air fryer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Once the cookies are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, they will become slightly more firm and develop that perfect crunchy texture on the outside while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. Enjoy!

Variations:

While these air fryer peanut butter cookies are delicious on their own, you can also get creative and try some variations to add different flavors and textures.

1. Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies:

Add a cup of chocolate chips to the cookie dough for an extra burst of chocolatey goodness. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is always a winner!

2. Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies:

Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie before air frying them. Once the cookies are done, fill the indentation with your favorite jelly or jam for a delightful peanut butter and jelly twist.

3. Peanut Butter and Nut Cookies:

Add a half cup of your favorite chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to the cookie dough for added crunch and flavor. The nutty texture pairs perfectly with the creamy peanut butter.

Tips:

To ensure the best results, here are a few tips to keep in mind when making air fryer peanut butter cookies:

• Use creamy peanut butter: Creamy peanut butter works best for this recipe as it provides a smooth texture to the cookies. Avoid using chunky peanut butter, as it may affect the cookie’s consistency.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix the ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Adjust cooking time if needed: Air fryer models may vary in temperature and cooking time. Keep an eye on the cookies as they cook and adjust the time accordingly to avoid burning.
• Let them cool completely: The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so be patient and allow them to cool completely before enjoying.

Conclusion:

Air fryer peanut butter cookies are a delightful treat that is quick and easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty air fryer, you can enjoy these crispy yet tender cookies in no time. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try out some variations, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to indulge in the irresistible taste of these homemade peanut butter cookies!

FAQs:

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?

While you can use natural peanut butter, keep in mind that it may alter the texture and consistency of the cookies. Natural peanut butter tends to be runnier and may result in cookies that spread more during cooking. If using natural peanut butter, you might need to adjust the amount of flour or baking powder to achieve the desired consistency.

Can I freeze air fryer peanut butter cookies?

Yes, you can freeze these cookies! Once they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cookies at room temperature or heat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Can I use an oven instead of an air fryer?

Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make these delicious peanut butter cookies in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cookies for approximately 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Now that you have the recipe and all the tips and tricks, it’s time to get baking. Enjoy your homemade air fryer peanut butter cookies and savor every bite of their irresistible flavor!