Looking for a quick and easy way to satisfy your peanut butter cravings? These Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies are the answer! Made with simple ingredients, these cookies come out perfectly soft and chewy, with just the right hint of peanut butter flavor.
Whatβs even better? Theyβre cooked in the air fryer, so you can enjoy warm, fresh cookies in minutes without turning on the oven. And with an optional peanut butter filling, theyβre perfect for peanut butter lovers everywhere.
Why Youβll Love These Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies
- Quick & Easy: From mixing to air-frying, these cookies are ready in under 20 minutes.
- Minimal Ingredients: Made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
- Soft & Chewy Texture: Perfectly balanced with a little crunch from the air fryer.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, drizzle with chocolate, or keep them classic β the choice is yours!
Ingredients Youβll Need
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter: For rich peanut butter flavor.
- ΒΌ cup additional peanut butter (optional): For filling, if making sandwich cookies.
- Β½ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and structure to the cookies.
- Β½ cup packed brown sugar: Adds a deeper, molasses-like flavor and keeps the cookies moist.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies puff up slightly as they cook.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the peanut butter.
- A pinch of sea salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates the peanut butter flavor.
Tools Youβll Need
- Air fryer with a parchment liner or basket
- Mixing bowl and whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fork (for the classic crisscross design)
How to Make Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Mix the Cookie Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until smooth.
- Add the egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix until fully combined and the dough is smooth.
Step 2: Shape the Cookies
- Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter. For uniform cookies, use a tablespoon or small cookie scoop to portion the dough.
- Place the cookie balls on a plate or tray. Use a fork to gently press each cookie ball down in a crisscross pattern.
Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 350Β°F (175Β°C) for 3β5 minutes.
- Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper (or use an air fryer-safe liner) to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Air Fry the Cookies
- Place the cookies in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between them for spreading.
- Air fry for 6β8 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The cookies may look slightly soft in the center β theyβll firm up as they cool.
- Let the cookies cool in the basket for 2β3 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Optional Peanut Butter Filling
- For sandwich cookies, spread about 1 teaspoon of peanut butter on the flat side of one cookie.
- Top with another cookie to create a sandwich. Press gently to secure.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies
- Donβt Overcrowd the Basket: Cook the cookies in batches to ensure even air circulation.
- Use Parchment Paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Adjust Cook Time: Every air fryer is different, so keep an eye on the cookies starting at 6 minutes.
- Add a Twist: Mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for extra flavor.
Storage Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freeze: Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheat: To revive the cookies, warm them in the air fryer at 300Β°F (150Β°C) for 1β2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture and works just as well as smooth peanut butter.
Can I make these cookies without sugar?
You can substitute the sugar with a sugar-free alternative like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener for a low-sugar option.
Can I make them vegan?
Yes! Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and ensure the peanut butter is dairy-free.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, based on 12 cookies)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Sugar: 11g
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies are a deliciously easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. With their soft, chewy texture and bold peanut butter flavor, theyβre sure to become a new favorite in your dessert rotation.
If you try this recipe, Iβd love to see your creations! Share your photos on Instagram or Pinterest and let me know if you added any fun twists.
Happy baking! πͺβ¨