Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies Recipe

If you’re looking for a cookie that perfectly balances wholesome oats with the rich, nutty goodness of peanut butter, these Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are your new best friend. They boast a delightful chewy texture with just a hint of crunch, thanks to the toffee bits and sea salt finish, making every bite irresistibly satisfying. Whether you want a comforting snack or a treat to share, these cookies bring warmth and joy that’s hard to beat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the key to making these Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies so incredibly delicious. Each one plays a special role, from the creamy peanut butter adding depth, to the oats providing that chewy heartiness, and a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate every flavor.

• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds creaminess and helps create a tender texture in the cookies.
• Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): The star ingredient that delivers that classic nutty richness.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note.
• Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens just enough while helping with the cookie’s structure.
• Egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and gives the cookies a nice lift.
• Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• Quick oats (1 1/2 cups): Adds chewiness and wholesome goodness.
• Unbleached flour (1/2 cup): Provides structure without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise and become perfectly soft inside.
• Toffee pieces (1/4 cup): Optional but highly recommended for a crunchy, buttery surprise.
• Sea salt (for garnish): Sprinkled on top to brighten the sweet and nutty flavors.

How to Make Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. A properly preheated oven ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out with that perfect golden edge.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a medium bowl, grab a fork and mix the softened butter, creamy peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creaming step is where the magic begins, building a creamy base that keeps your cookies tender.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Next, stir in the egg and vanilla extract. These ingredients add moisture and heartwarming flavor that tie the cookie dough together beautifully.

Step 4: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time for the oats, unbleached flour, salt, and baking soda. Incorporate these dry ingredients gently until fully mixed, ensuring the oats remain intact to give the cookies their delightful chewy texture.

Step 5: Fold in Toffee Pieces

Don’t skip the toffee! Add the toffee pieces and fold them in evenly. These bits give the cookies a subtle crunch and a touch of buttery sweetness that pairs perfectly with peanut butter’s richness.

Step 6: Scoop the Dough onto a Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Using a two-tablespoon cookie scoop, place dough balls about two inches apart to allow room for spreading during baking.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake your Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies for about nine minutes, or until the centers look set and the edges just begin to brown. This timing yields chewy cookies with slightly crisp edges—pure perfection.

Step 8: Garnish Immediately

Right after pulling the cookies from the oven, lightly sprinkle sea salt on top. The salt balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter and toffee flavors in an unforgettable way.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for at least ten minutes so they finish setting up. Once cooled, transfer them to a rack or a serving plate and prepare to fall in love.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

Garnishes

A simple dusting of flaky sea salt adds a professional touch and bursts of flavor with every bite. If you want to get creative, consider a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a decadent finish.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee or tea. Their rich nuttiness and hearty oats make them a cozy companion for your favorite beverage.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies stacked with a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two for a quick ice cream sandwich. Alternatively, arrange them on a platter surrounded by fresh fruit or nuts to make a delightful snack board for gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll maintain their chewy goodness for about a week, perfect for enjoying slowly or sharing.

Freezing

Want to make these cookies ahead of time? Freeze the dough balls on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes, for convenient fresh-baked treats anytime.

Reheating

Warm leftover cookies in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or pop them briefly in the oven. This little reheating touch revives their soft texture and brings out the peanut butter aroma beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture inside the cookie, giving you an extra nutty crunch with every bite.

Are toffee pieces necessary?

Nope, toffee pieces are optional. They add a lovely buttery crunch and subtle chocolate flavor, but these cookies are delicious even without them.

Can I substitute quick oats with old-fashioned oats?

Yes, you can swap in old-fashioned oats, but keep in mind the texture will be a bit chewier and heartier rather than soft. Both work wonderfully depending on your preference.

How do I make these cookies vegan?

Try substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Also, ensure your peanut butter is vegan-friendly.

Can I add chocolate chips instead of toffee?

Definitely! Chocolate chips make a great alternative and bring their own sweet, melty charm to these Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are a truly special treat—comforting, chewy, and bursting with flavors that feel both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these cookies never disappoint. I can’t wait for you to try them and make them a regular delight in your kitchen!

Print