If you’re after a fast, nostalgic-tasting sweet treat, air fryer peanut butter cookies are an excellent option. This modern twist on a classic favorite uses your air fryer to deliver soft, chewy cookies with a crisp edge no oven required! Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves peanut butter cookies, this recipe delivers big taste with minimal effort.
Why Use an Air Fryer to Make Peanut Butter Cookies?
Using an air fryer to bake cookies might sound odd, but it’s a game-changer. Air fryers circulate hot air rapidly, creating evenly cooked treats in a fraction of the time it takes to preheat and use a conventional oven. Plus, it keeps your kitchen cool ideal for warm days or small living spaces. These air fryer peanut butter cookies come out golden, slightly crispy on the outside, and perfectly tender inside, with that irresistible peanut butter aroma we all love.
Tips for Success :
Don’t Overcrowd: Air circulation is key! Cook in small batches for even results.
Use Parchment Liners: These prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Watch Closely: Air fryers cook quickly—check cookies at the 5-minute mark to avoid over-browning.
Ingredients :
1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural or regular-just make sure it’s well-stirred!)
1 large egg
¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped peanuts for extra crunch
Tip: For gluten-free cookies, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your peanut butter and other ingredients don’t contain hidden gluten additives.
Method :
Mix the Dough: In a medium bowl, mix the peanut butter, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Stir until smooth and well blended. If you’re adding chocolate chips or chopped peanuts, fold them in now.
Chill (Optional but Helpful): While not strictly necessary, chilling the dough for 15–20 minutes helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the air fryer.
To form the cookies, take a tablespoon or so of dough and shape it into a ball. Place it on a sheet of parchment paper or an air-fryer-safe liner. Repeat, spacing them at least 2 inches apart (you’ll cook them in batches). Flatten each ball slightly with a fork, making the classic crisscross pattern.
Air Fry to Perfection: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes. Place 2–3 cookie dough balls in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set. The exact time may vary based on your air fryer model and cookie size.
Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool in the basket for 2–3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. They’ll firm up as they cool.