When it comes to baking, few things are as satisfying as biting into a chewy, nutty, and deliciously sweet peanut butter cookie. But what if you want to make those same cookies without using brown sugar? Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to baked goods, but some of us may not have it on hand or prefer the simplicity of white sugar. Fear not! We’ve got you covered with 18 delicious peanut butter cookies recipes that ditch the brown sugar and still pack plenty of flavor.
From classic peanut butter cookies to unique variations like honey-sweetened and maple syrup-infused treats, we’re sharing our favorite recipes that showcase the star of the show: creamy peanut butter. Whether you’re a fan of soft and chewy or crunchy textures, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Classic Peanut Butter Cookies Without Brown Sugar
A classic favorite gets a twist with this recipe that skips the brown sugar for a deeper peanut butter flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth.
4. Gradually add sugar and beat until well combined.
5. Beat in the egg.
6. Add the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms.
7. If desired, fold in chopped peanuts or chocolate chips.
8. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
10. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey-Sweetened Peanut Butter Cookies
These classic cookies get a touch of sweetness from pure honey, balancing out the richness of peanut butter. A perfect combination for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or sea salt for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add honey and mix well.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Maple Syrup Peanut Butter Cookies
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these chewy cookies that combine the richness of peanut butter and the sweetness of maple syrup. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these cookies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter, butter, maple syrup, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
White Sugar Peanut Butter Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are a timeless favorite, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With the simplicity of just three ingredients – peanut butter, sugar, and eggs – you can’t go wrong with this easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg until well combined.
4. If using vanilla extract, add it now.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Almond Flour Peanut Butter Cookies
These chewy cookies are a perfect blend of nutty and sweet, made with the goodness of peanut butter and almond flour.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Oatmeal Peanut Butter Cookies Without Brown Sugar
These chewy cookies combine the nutty flavor of oats with the richness of peanut butter, all without using brown sugar. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
– 1/2 cup granulated white sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, peanut butter, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add oil, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these chewy and delicious vegan peanut butter cookies that are free from dairy, eggs, and other animal-derived ingredients. Perfect for a quick snack or as a special treat for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter (make sure it’s free from honey)
– 1/2 cup vegan butter (such as Earth Balance), softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg replacement (such as Ener-G Egg Replacer or flaxseed)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together peanut butter and vegan butter until smooth.
3. Add sugars, egg replacement, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add flour, baking soda, and salt; mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Cookies
Enjoy a classic peanut butter cookie with the added benefit of being gluten-free! This recipe uses simple ingredients and requires minimal effort to produce soft, chewy cookies that are perfect for snacking or sharing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, whichever you prefer)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Gradually add gluten-free flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies
Satisfy your cravings with these chewy and crunchy peanut butter cookies that are perfect for snacking or sharing. With a rich peanut butter flavor and satisfying crunch, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Optional: chopped peanuts or sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Gradually add sugars; beat until combined.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Stir in flour mixture until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Soft and Chewy Peanut Butter Cookies
Looking for a classic cookie that’s sure to please? These soft and chewy peanut butter cookies are a timeless favorite, with a deliciously nutty flavor and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, whichever you prefer)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugars and beat until combined.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Blossoms Without Brown Sugar
Peanut Butter Blossoms Without Brown Sugar Recipe
These bite-sized cookies are a classic treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate. Perfect for any occasion, these delicious drops are easy to make and fun to eat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream peanut butter, butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
9. Drizzle melted chocolate over cooled cookies.
Yield: About 40-50 cookies
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
Classic cookies with a twist! These chewy treats combine the richness of peanut butter and the indulgence of chocolate chips for a delightful dessert experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies
These chewy cookies are a twist on the classic PB&J sandwich, with a surprise burst of jammy goodness in every bite. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Your favorite jelly or jam (about 1-2 tablespoons per cookie)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter, butter, and sugar until smooth.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Use your thumb or a spoon to create an indentation in each cookie.
8. Fill with jelly or jam (about 1-2 tablespoons per cookie).
9. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
10. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Peanut Butter Coconut Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of peanut butter with the tropical flavor of coconut, making them a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, oats, and baking soda. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and sugars until smooth. Beat in egg and milk.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in shredded coconut.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich flavor of peanut butter, making them a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or chocolate chips for added texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add mashed bananas and mix well.
3. Gradually add sugar, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Cinnamon Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of peanut butter with the warmth of cinnamon, perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter and butter until smooth.
3. Add sugars, egg, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Gradually add flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt; mix until dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peanut Butter Oat Bars
A sweet and satisfying treat that combines the richness of peanut butter with the wholesome goodness of oats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, honey, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Add milk and mix until the dough comes together. If using peanuts, fold them into the dough.
4. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Shortbread Cookies
A classic shortbread cookie gets a delicious twist with the addition of creamy peanut butter. These chewy cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or as a tasty treat to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: chopped peanuts or sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and peanut butter to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavor of peanut butter without using brown sugar with these 18 scrumptious recipes! From classic peanut butter cookies to honey-sweetened and maple syrup-infused treats, there’s something for everyone. Explore vegan, gluten-free, crunchy, and soft options, as well as unique variations featuring almond flour, oatmeal, and coconut. Whether you’re in the mood for chewy, nutty, or indulgent delights, these peanut butter cookie recipes without brown sugar are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
