Name: Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 32
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1⅓ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp Baking Soda; ¼ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup light brown sugar; ¾ cup creamy peanut butter; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ⅓ cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup powdered sugar

These crisp peanut butter crinkles offer a delightful combination of a classic crinkle cookie with the rich, creamy taste of peanut butter. They are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a holiday gathering or just a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee.

Photos of Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in any pantry, you should ensure you have light brown sugar, creamy peanut butter, and both granulated sugar and powdered sugar. These ingredients are crucial for achieving the unique texture and flavor of the cookies.

Ingredients for Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

All-purpose flour: The base for the cookie dough providing structure.

Baking soda: Helps the dough rise and become fluffy.

Baking powder: Assists in additional leavening for a nice texture.

Salt: Enhances the flavor by balancing sweetness.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and keeps the dough moist.

Light brown sugar: Provides a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.

Creamy peanut butter: The main flavor component, offering a smooth, nutty taste.

Egg: Binds the ingredients and adds moisture.

Vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the flavor.

Granulated sugar: Used for coating the dough balls for a crispy exterior.

Powdered sugar: Also used for coating and adds a delicate sweetness.

One reader, Koressa Adams says:

These crisp peanut butter crinkles are a delightful treat! The perfect balance of sweetness and peanut butter flavor makes them irresistible. The texture is wonderfully crisp on the outside and soft inside. They were a hit at my family gathering. Highly recommend trying this recipe!

Koressa Adams

Techniques Required for Making Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

How to position oven racks: Place the oven racks in the upper third and lower third of the oven to ensure even baking. How to preheat oven: Set the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before baking. How to whisk dry ingredients: Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a bowl and whisk them together for 20 seconds to ensure even distribution. How to use an electric stand mixer: Fit the stand mixer with the paddle attachment and use it to whip together butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter until fluffy. How to mix ingredients: Gradually add the egg and vanilla to the whipped mixture, then slowly incorporate the flour mixture while the mixer is set on low speed. How to shape dough balls: Scoop out the dough using a tablespoon, then shape it into balls. How to coat dough balls: Roll each dough ball first in granulated sugar and then in powdered sugar to give it a generous coating. How to space dough balls on baking sheets: Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets to allow for spreading during baking. How to rotate baking sheets: After baking for 7 minutes, switch the positions of the baking sheets to ensure even baking. How to cool cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. How to dip cookies in powdered sugar: Pour powdered sugar into a shallow dish, level it, and gently dip the tops of the cookies into the sugar without pressing too hard.

How To Make Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

These peanut butter crinkles adds a new twist to the usual PB cookies! They’re tastier, and takes just a couple of ingredients to make.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1⅓cupsall-purpose flour
1tspbaking soda
¼tsp baking powder
½tspsalt
½cupunsalted butterroom temperature or softened
1cuplight brown sugarpacked
¾cupcreamy peanut butter
1large egg
1tspvanilla extract
⅓cupgranulated sugar
¾cuppowdered sugardivided

Instructions

Position oven racks in upper third and lower third of the oven, then preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt for 20 seconds, then set aside.
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip together butter, brown sugar and peanut butter for several minutes until fluffy.
Mix in egg and vanilla.
With mixer set on low speed, slowly add in flour mixture and mix until combined.
Pour granulated sugar into a small bowl then pour ½ cup of the powdered sugar into a separate small bowl.
Scoop dough out, 1 even tablespoon at a time, and shape into balls.
Roll each ball through granulated sugar to coat, then into powdered sugar, giving it a generous coating.
Space dough balls 2-inches apart on two ungreased 18 x 13-inch baking sheets.
Bake cookies for 7 minutes then rotate pans to opposite oven racks.
Continue to bake for 7 to 9 minutes longer until cookies are just firm around the edges and cracked on top.
Let cool on baking sheet for several minutes then transfer cookies to wire racks to cool.
Pour ¼ cup of the powdered sugar into a shallow dish then shake the dish to level the sugar.
Dip tops of cookies into powdered sugar – being careful not to press them into the sugar too far.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 4447.63kcal
Fat: 316.82g
Saturated Fat: 143.30g
Trans Fat: 7.64g
Monounsaturated Fat: 114.71g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 39.29g
Carbohydrates: 385.94g
Fiber: 13.01g
Sugar: 348.60g
Protein: 59.84g
Cholesterol: 493.86mg
Sodium: 1906.60mg
Calcium: 528.96mg
Potassium: 1513.60mg
Iron: 5.48mg
Vitamin A: 1555.18µg

Technique Tip for Achieving Perfect Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

To achieve the perfect texture for these cookies, make sure to whip the butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter until they are light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create a lighter, crispier cookie. Additionally, when rolling the dough balls in powdered sugar, ensure they are generously coated to achieve the signature crinkle effect.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the baking process.

Use a cookie scoop: A cookie scoop ensures uniform dough balls and saves time shaping them by hand.

Double batch: Make a double batch of dough and freeze half for future use, cutting down on prep time later.

Skip the rotation: If your oven bakes evenly, you can skip rotating the baking sheets halfway through.

Quick cooling: Transfer cookies to a wire rack immediately after baking to cool faster, so you can start the next batch sooner.

Substitute Ingredients For Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles Recipe

all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the cookies denser.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use three times the amount of baking powder to achieve a similar leavening effect, though it may slightly alter the taste.
baking powder - Substitute with cream of tartar and baking soda: Use 1/4 tsp baking soda and 1/2 tsp cream of tartar to replace 1 tsp of baking powder.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same quantity and provides a slightly different mineral flavor.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used in the same quantity and provides a similar texture, though it may slightly alter the flavor.
light brown sugar - Substitute with dark brown sugar: Dark brown sugar has more molasses, which will add a richer flavor and darker color to the cookies.
creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter provides a different nutty flavor and can be used in the same quantity.
large egg - Substitute with flaxseed meal and water: Mix 1 tbsp flaxseed meal with 3 tbsp water to replace one egg, suitable for vegan diets.
vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor, though it is stronger, so use half the amount.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used in the same quantity and provides a caramel-like flavor.
powdered sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar blended: Blend granulated sugar in a blender until it reaches a powdery consistency to replace powdered sugar.

Presentation Tips for Serving Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure that all all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, light brown sugar, creamy peanut butter, egg, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar are of the finest quality to enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies.
Create uniform dough balls: Use a tablespoon to scoop out the dough, ensuring each ball is even in size. This will help the cookies bake uniformly and look professional.
Double coat for texture: Roll each dough ball first in granulated sugar and then in powdered sugar. The dual coating will give the cookies a delightful texture and a beautiful crinkled appearance.
Bake to perfection: Position the oven racks in the upper third and lower third of the oven. Bake the cookies for 7 minutes, then rotate the pans to ensure even baking. Continue to bake for an additional 7 to 9 minutes until the cookies are firm around the edges and cracked on top.
Cool on wire racks: After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for several minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This will prevent them from becoming soggy and will maintain their crisp texture.
Final dusting: Pour ¼ cup of powdered sugar into a shallow dish and shake to level. Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the powdered sugar, being careful not to press too hard. This final touch will give the cookies a professional finish.
Serve with elegance: Arrange the cookies on a pristine white plate or a rustic wooden board. Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a few whole peanuts or a drizzle of melted peanut butter for an elegant presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

Oven: Used for baking the cookies at the specified temperature.
Oven racks: Positioned in the upper third and lower third of the oven to ensure even baking.
Mixing bowl: Used for whisking together the dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Electric stand mixer: Fitted with the paddle attachment, used to whip together butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter until fluffy.
Paddle attachment: Attached to the electric stand mixer to mix the ingredients effectively.
Small bowls: Used for holding granulated sugar and powdered sugar separately for coating the dough balls.
Baking sheets: Two ungreased 18 x 13-inch sheets used for placing the dough balls for baking.
Wire racks: Used for cooling the cookies after they are baked.
Whisk: Used for whisking together the dry ingredients in the mixing bowl.
Tablespoon: Used for scooping out the dough in even measurements.
Shallow dish: Used for leveling the powdered sugar to dip the tops of the cookies.

Storing and Freezing Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for crisp peanut butter crinkles:

Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their crispness, place a piece of bread in the container to absorb any excess moisture.
For longer storage, freeze the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 3 months. To prevent them from sticking together, place a sheet of parchment paper between each layer of cookies.
When ready to serve the frozen cookies, let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. If desired, you can refresh the powdered sugar coating by dusting them with a fresh layer of powdered sugar before serving.
If you want to freeze the cookie dough for later use, shape the dough into balls and coat them with granulated sugar and powdered sugar as directed in the recipe. Place the coated dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove the desired number of dough balls from the freezer and bake as directed, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time to account for the frozen dough.

How To Reheat Leftover Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the peanut butter crinkles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy around the edges. This method will help restore some of the original crispiness while keeping the cookies soft and chewy on the inside.
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them in 10-second intervals until they reach your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the cookies to become too soft or even rubbery.
If you prefer a softer texture, wrap the peanut butter crinkles in a slightly damp paper towel before microwaving them. The moisture from the paper towel will help keep the cookies soft and prevent them from drying out during the reheating process.
For a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey center, use a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies on the wire rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until they reach your desired level of warmth and crispiness.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your peanut butter crinkles. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies in the basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.

Interesting Facts About Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

A fun fact about this recipe is that the peanut butter crinkles get their distinctive cracked appearance from the powdered sugar coating, which dries out and splits as the cookies bake and expand in the oven.

Is Making Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles at Home Cost-Effective?

This crisp peanut butter crinkles recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients like all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, light brown sugar, creamy peanut butter, egg, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar are pantry staples and relatively inexpensive. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $8-$10. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for crisp peanut butter crinkles is undeniably delicious, but it falls short in terms of healthiness. The main culprits are the high amounts of butter, sugar, and refined flour used in the recipe. These ingredients contribute to the cookie's rich flavor and texture but also add significant amounts of saturated fat, empty calories, and simple carbohydrates. While enjoying a treat like this occasionally is perfectly fine, regular consumption of such foods can lead to health issues like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

To make this recipe healthier without compromising too much on taste and texture, consider the following modifications:

Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase fiber content
Reduce the amount of brown sugar and granulated sugar by 25% to lower the overall sugar content
Swap out half of the butter for an equal amount of Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to reduce saturated fat and add healthy fats or protein
Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter instead of regular creamy peanut butter to avoid added sugars and oils
Incorporate chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits into the dough for added nutrients and texture variety

Editor's Opinion on the Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles Recipe

This recipe for crisp peanut butter crinkles is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The combination of creamy peanut butter and light brown sugar creates a rich, nutty sweetness, while the dual coating of granulated and powdered sugar adds a satisfying crunch and visual appeal. The methodical rotation of baking sheets ensures even baking, resulting in perfectly cracked tops and firm edges. The final dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance. Overall, this recipe is well-structured and promises a deliciously crisp cookie with a tender interior, perfect for any peanut butter lover.

Enhance Your Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Fruit Salad: Pair these delightful crisp peanut butter crinkles with a vibrant fruit salad. The refreshing mix of berries, melon, and citrus will balance the rich, nutty flavors of the cookies, creating a harmonious dessert experience.

Chocolate Fondue: Elevate your dessert game by serving these crisp peanut butter crinkles alongside a luscious chocolate fondue. The warm, melted chocolate will complement the peanut butter goodness, making each bite a decadent delight.

Vanilla Ice Cream: For a classic and comforting pairing, enjoy these crisp peanut butter crinkles with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The cold, smooth texture of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the crispy, chewy cookies.

Berry Compote: Add a burst of fruity flavor to your crisp peanut butter crinkles by serving them with a tangy berry compote. The sweet and slightly tart berries will enhance the nutty notes of the cookies, creating a delightful taste sensation.

Espresso: Complete your dessert experience with a shot of rich, aromatic espresso. The bold, intense flavor of the coffee will perfectly balance the sweetness of the crisp peanut butter crinkles, making for a sophisticated and satisfying treat.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies: Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey dessert filled with melty chocolate chips. These cookies are a classic favorite, perfect for any occasion. The secret lies in the balance of butter and brown sugar, creating a chewy texture that’s simply irresistible.

Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: A delightful blend of oats, raisins, and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies are a wholesome treat. The chewy texture combined with the natural sweetness of raisins makes them a perfect snack or dessert.

Snickerdoodle Cookies: These cookies are a cinnamon lover’s dream. Rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking, they have a slightly crisp exterior with a soft and chewy center. The butter and sugar meld together to create a delightful dessert experience.

Double Chocolate Brownies: For the ultimate chocolate fix, these brownies are rich, fudgy, and packed with cocoa and chocolate chips. Each bite is a decadent dessert that will satisfy any chocolate craving.

Lemon Bars: A refreshing dessert with a buttery shortbread crust and a tangy lemon filling. These bars are dusted with powdered sugar and offer a perfect balance of sweet and tart, making them a delightful treat for any time of the year.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushroom caps and remove the stems. Create a savory filling using cream cheese, garlic, and a blend of herbs. Add a touch of parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Bake until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering.

Bruschetta: Transform your appetizer spread with a classic bruschetta. Begin with slices of toasted baguette, brushed with olive oil. Top each slice with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for a touch of sweetness. This simple yet flavorful dish is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and the aromatic touch of fresh herbs. Marinate the chicken breasts in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Grill the chicken to perfection, ensuring it remains juicy and tender. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that is both healthy and satisfying. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a simple weeknight dinner.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious main course that can be customized to suit any palate. Hollow out bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground meat (such as beef, turkey, or chicken), rice, tomatoes, and spices. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. For a vegetarian twist, substitute the meat with quinoa or lentils. Serve these vibrant peppers with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a wholesome and delicious meal that is sure to impress.

Why trust this Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles Recipe:

This recipe for crisp peanut butter crinkles is a must-try for any cookie lover. The combination of creamy peanut butter and light brown sugar creates a rich, flavorful dough that bakes into perfectly crisp cookies. The double coating of granulated and powdered sugar ensures a delightful crinkle texture and a sweet finish. With clear, step-by-step instructions, even novice bakers can achieve professional results. Trust this recipe for a delicious treat that will impress family and friends.

Want to share your experience making these Crisp Peanut Butter Crinkles or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in our Baking and Desserts forum section.

FAQ:

How do I store leftover cookies?

I usually store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months.

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can use chunky peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your cookies. It will give the cookies a slightly different texture but still taste delicious.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

No, you don't need to chill the dough for this recipe. The cookies will turn out perfectly fine without chilling, which is great if you're in a hurry.

Can I substitute the light brown sugar with dark brown sugar?

You can substitute dark brown sugar for light brown sugar. Just keep in mind that dark brown sugar has more molasses, so it will give the cookies a slightly richer flavor and darker color.

What if I don't have an electric stand mixer?

If you don't have an electric stand mixer, you can use a hand mixer or even mix by hand. It might take a bit more effort to get the butter and sugar mixture fluffy, but it will still work.