Few things evoke the feeling of home quite like the scent of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. If you’re searching for a treat that’s as comforting as it is kind to your body and the planet, you’ll love this vegan peanut butter cookie recipe.
With their irresistibly soft centers, lightly crisped edges, and rich, nutty flavor, these cookies are a nostalgic classic—reinvented for a plant-based lifestyle. Best of all, you don’t need any fancy ingredients or complicated steps.
Just a handful of pantry staples, a mixing bowl, and about 30 minutes are all that stand between you and a batch of wholesome, satisfying cookies. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving a sweet moment with your afternoon coffee, these cookies deliver every time.
Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: This recipe comes together in just one bowl, with no need for fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients.
- Perfectly Vegan: No eggs or dairy—just pure plant-based goodness, making it ideal for vegans and those with allergies or dietary preferences.
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of flaky salt for your own signature twist.
- Kid-Friendly: Soft, chewy, and packed with peanut butter flavor, these cookies are a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Protein Boost: Thanks to peanut butter, each cookie offers a bit of plant-based protein to keep you energized.
- Freezer-Friendly: Bake ahead and freeze for those emergency sweet cravings or last-minute guests.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Natural peanut butter | 1 cup (250g) | Unsweetened, creamy or crunchy |
Coconut sugar or brown sugar | 3/4 cup (150g) | For a caramel-like flavor |
Unsweetened non-dairy milk | 1/4 cup (60ml) | Almond, soy, or oat |
Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | Pure vanilla for best flavor |
All-purpose flour | 1 cup (125g) | Can use whole wheat for a heartier cookie |
Baking soda | 1/2 tsp | For lift |
Salt | 1/4 tsp | Balances sweetness |
Optional: Vegan chocolate chips | 1/2 cup (90g) | For chocolate lovers |
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or hand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Cooling rack
- Spatula
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
-
Mix wet ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine peanut butter and coconut or brown sugar. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add the non-dairy milk and vanilla extract, then mix until fully incorporated.
-
Add dry ingredients:
Sprinkle the flour, baking soda, and salt evenly over the wet mixture. Gently fold together until a soft dough forms.
If using vegan chocolate chips, fold them in now.
-
Shape the cookies:
Use a cookie scoop or a heaping tablespoon to portion out dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches between each cookie, as they will spread slightly.
-
Flatten and criss-cross:
With a fork, gently press a criss-cross pattern on top of each cookie. This helps them bake evenly and gives that classic peanut butter cookie look.
-
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden and the centers look set. Do not overbake; the cookies will firm up as they cool.
-
Cool:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack. Enjoy warm, or let cool completely for best texture.
Tips & Variations
-
Tip: For the chewiest cookies, slightly underbake and let them finish setting on the tray.
- Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
- For gluten-free cookies, use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Add 1/4 cup chopped peanuts for extra crunch.
- Drizzle with vegan melted chocolate or sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a gourmet touch.
- For a lower-sugar option, reduce the sugar by 1/4 cup or use coconut sugar.
- Love cookies? Try pairing these with a glass of Vegan Chocolate Milk for the ultimate treat.
Nutrition Facts
Per Cookie (1 of 18) | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 120 |
Protein | 3g |
Total Fat | 7g |
Carbohydrates | 12g |
Sugar | 7g |
Fiber | 1g |
Sodium | 80mg |
Note: Nutrition values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredients and size.
Serving Suggestions
- Pack a couple in your lunchbox for a midday pick-me-up.
- Serve alongside a cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
- Pair with a bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup for a balanced meal.
- Crumble over a bowl of non-dairy vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Add to a vegan dessert platter for special occasions or parties.
- Gift in a mason jar or decorative tin for a thoughtful homemade present.
Conclusion
These vegan peanut butter cookies are proof that you don’t have to compromise on taste, texture, or simplicity to enjoy a classic favorite. They’re soft, chewy, and loaded with peanut butter flavor—everything you want in a cookie, minus the animal products.
Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is destined to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to experiment with mix-ins and toppings to make each batch uniquely yours.
For more plant-based baking inspiration, explore our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe or whip up a loaf from our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for a cozy kitchen adventure. Happy baking—and don’t be surprised if these cookies disappear as soon as they hit the cooling rack!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies
Description: These vegan peanut butter cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with peanut flavor. They require simple ingredients and are ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT12M
Total Time: PT22M
Servings: 18 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup non-dairy milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix peanut butter and brown sugar until smooth.
- Add non-dairy milk and vanilla extract; stir to combine.
- Add flour, baking soda, and salt; mix until a dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto the baking sheet.
- Flatten each ball with a fork, making a criss-cross pattern.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 kcal | Protein: 3g | Fat: 7g | Carbs: 12g
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