If you’ve ever craved a chewy, utterly satisfying cookie without worrying about gluten, this Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies (Gluten-Free) Recipe is an absolute game-changer. With just a handful of simple ingredients, it delivers rich peanut buttery goodness, a perfect balance of sweetness, and a lovely soft texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re gluten-free by choice or necessity, these cookies provide a quick, fuss-free treat that feels homemade and special every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a vital role in crafting the ideal texture and flavor. From the creamy peanut butter that brings that signature nutty depth to the baking soda that helps lift the dough just the right amount, every element is essential for the perfect cookie experience.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: This forms the rich base and keeps the cookies moist and tender; chunky peanut butter works too if you want extra texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The perfect level of sweetness that balances the peanut butter without overpowering it.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, holding the ingredients together and providing structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the natural flavors in the cookie.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Gives a slight rise and lightness to the cookie texture.
- Pinch of salt (optional): Elevates the flavor by balancing the sweetness and highlighting peanut butter’s natural nuttiness.
How to Make Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies (Gluten-Free) Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
First things first, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready to bake your cookies evenly. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Whip Up the Dough
Grab a large bowl and combine the creamy peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt if you choose to use it. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and uniformly combined. Seeing this come together so easily is incredibly satisfying and makes the process feel approachable.
Step 3: Shape the Cookie Balls
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough into balls. Place them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Gently press the tops with a fork to create that classic crisscross pattern, which not only looks charming but helps the cookies bake evenly.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, just until the edges turn lightly golden. It might feel tempting to bake a little longer, but be careful — these cookies continue to firm up perfectly as they cool, so pulling them a bit early keeps them soft and chewy.
Step 5: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps them set up so they don’t fall apart when you transfer them. Then move them over to a wire rack to cool completely before indulging in your first bite.
How to Serve Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies (Gluten-Free) Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are delicious on their own, you can dress them up with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate to make them feel extra special. A sprinkle of sea salt on top brings out the peanut butter flavor even more and adds a delightful contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair your peanut butter cookies with a cold glass of milk—dairy or plant-based—for a nostalgic classic combo. If you’re aiming for a more adult twist, a hot cup of coffee or a mildly spiced chai tea complements the rich nutty flavor wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun dessert platter, stack the cookies alongside fresh berries or sliced apples for a mix of textures and flavors. You can also sandwich a spoonful of chocolate or vanilla ice cream between two cookies to create indulgent, gluten-free ice cream sandwiches that will wow friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. Keeping them stored properly ensures they remain soft and flavorful rather than drying out.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these cookies ahead of time, they freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their quality for up to 3 months, ready for whenever you need a quick treat.
Reheating
To enjoy frozen or leftover cookies warm, simply thaw at room temperature or heat them gently in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings back their fresh-baked softness and enhances that luscious peanut butter aroma.
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can! Just be aware that natural peanut butter has more oil and can make the dough a bit wetter, potentially affecting the texture slightly. You might want to chill the dough for a short time before shaping to make it easier to handle.
Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, no. Since peanut butter is the main ingredient, this recipe is not safe for those with peanut or tree nut allergies.
What if I don’t have baking soda? Can I skip it?
Baking soda helps give the cookies a nice lift and light texture. Skipping it might result in denser cookies, but they’ll still be tasty. If you have baking powder on hand, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of baking powder instead.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, you can replace the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water, set for 5 minutes). This substitution keeps the binding properties and maintains the chewy texture.
Why do these cookies sometimes spread out too much?
Using oils from certain peanut butters or adding slightly too much sugar can cause more spread. Make sure to use peanut butter without added oils, and chill the dough for 10-15 minutes if your kitchen is particularly warm to help the cookies hold their shape better.
Final Thoughts
This Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies (Gluten-Free) Recipe is truly a little miracle for anyone craving something quick, delicious, and gluten-free without sacrificing flavor or texture. Perfect for sharing with friends or keeping all to yourself, it’s a beautiful way to enjoy peanut butter in a simple yet indulgent cookie form. Give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite cookie!
Print
Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies (Gluten-Free) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies are a simple, gluten-free treat perfect for anyone craving a sweet, nutty snack. Made with just a few ingredients, these cookies come together quickly and offer a chewy, rich texture with a classic peanut butter flavor. They’re easy to bake and require no flour, making them ideal for those following a gluten-free diet.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or chunky for added texture)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and a pinch of salt if desired. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Form the Cookies: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently press down each ball with a fork to create a classic crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn lightly golden, taking care not to overbake since the cookies will firm up more as they cool.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to set, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving. Enjoy these chewy, flavorful peanut butter cookies as a delightful gluten-free snack.
Notes
- Using chunky peanut butter adds extra texture, but creamy works best for uniform cookies.
- If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce sugar slightly, but this may affect texture.
- The cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature and consumed within a week.
- For a nut-free alternative, try using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
- Do not overbake; the cookies will continue to firm as they cool, keeping them chewy.
