Crunchy Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Crispy Golden Peanut Butter Cookies: Air Fryer Recipe

Soft, chewy cookies with a rich peanut butter flavor burst to life in this simple air fryer peanut butter cookies recipe that takes minutes to prepare.

These delightful treats promise a golden-brown exterior with a melt-in-your-mouth center.

No complicated baking skills required to whip up this crowd-pleasing dessert.

The air fryer works magic, creating perfectly crisp edges and a tender crumb that makes each bite irresistible.

Forget complicated baking techniques and complicated ovens.

These cookies come together faster than you can grab a glass of cold milk.

Grab your mixing bowl and air fryer – deliciousness awaits with just a few pantry staples.

How to Air Fry Peanut Butter Cookies

  • Cookie Foundation

Gather your favorite peanut butter, sweet sugars, and a fresh egg to create a smooth and creamy base for delightful treats.

  • Flavor Enhancement

Introduce a splash of vanilla and a gentle hint of salt to elevate the cookie’s character and depth of taste.

  • Dough Crafting

Tenderly shape small rounds of dough, creating little spheres that will transform into crispy, golden delicacies.

  • Artistic Preparation

Use a fork to gently press a classic crosshatch design, giving your cookies a traditional and inviting appearance.

  • Air Fryer Magic

Slide your cookie masterpieces into the air fryer, allowing them to dance and crisp at a warm temperature until the edges turn a beautiful golden brown.

  • Cooling Moment

Allow your freshly cooked cookies to rest peacefully on a cooling surface, letting them settle into their perfect texture and irresistible crunch.

Tips for Extra Nutty or Sweet Results

  • Swap traditional peanut butter for almond or cashew butter to create unique flavor profiles and add exciting texture variations.
  • Use a small cookie scoop to ensure consistent size and even cooking, guaranteeing each cookie bakes uniformly in the air fryer.
  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes before shaping to prevent excessive spreading and create slightly thicker, chewier cookies with crisp edges.
  • Fold in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit into the dough for unexpected bursts of flavor and delightful mix-in surprises.
  • Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, separating layers with parchment paper to maintain their perfect crumbly texture.

Serving Peanut Butter Cookies Warm or Chilled

  • Pair with Creamy Delight: Serve these warm, crispy peanut butter cookies alongside a cold glass of milk for a classic, comforting combination that brings out the rich, nutty flavor.
  • Dessert Plate Perfection: Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate to elevate their homemade charm.
  • Create Cookie Sandwich Bliss: Spread a thin layer of raspberry jam or chocolate ganache between two cookies for an indulgent twist that transforms the simple treat into a gourmet dessert.
  • Pack for Sweet Gifting: Wrap these air fryer cookies in a cute mason jar or decorative tin for a heartwarming homemade gift that friends and family will absolutely adore.

Storing Cookies So They Stay Chewy

  • Maximize Cookie Enjoyment: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, keeping them soft and delicious.
  • Freeze for Future Treats: Wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag to enjoy for up to 3 months – perfect for quick snack cravings.
  • Smart Meal Prep Tips: Prepare cookie dough balls in advance and refrigerate for 24 hours, or freeze raw dough for spontaneous baking sessions whenever hunger strikes.
  • Keep Cookies Fresh: Slip a slice of bread into the storage container to maintain moisture and prevent cookies from becoming dry or crumbly during storage.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Calories: 135 kcal

Servings: 13

For Base Ingredients:
  • Peanut Butter: Creamy, rich foundation that gives cookies their signature nutty flavor and tender texture. Choose natural, smooth varieties for best results.
  • Sugar, Brown Sugar: Sweeten the cookies and help create a delightful caramelized exterior. Opt for fresh, clump-free sugars for even distribution.
  • Egg: Binds ingredients together and provides structure to the cookie. Select fresh, room-temperature eggs for smoother mixing.
For Flavor Enhancers:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the cookie's taste profile. Use pure vanilla for the most authentic flavor.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and amplifies overall taste. A tiny pinch elevates the entire cookie experience.
For Texture Modifier:
  • Baking Soda: Helps cookies rise slightly and creates a softer, more tender crumb. Ensure it's fresh and not expired for optimal results.

Tools for Making Cookies That Crisp in the Fryer

  • Mixing bowl: Large, sturdy vessel for combining ingredients smoothly.
  • Air fryer: Essential appliance for quick, crispy cookie baking.
  • Fork: Perfect for creating classic crisscross cookie pattern.
  • Wire rack: Helps cookies cool and crisp up evenly.
  • Measuring spoons: Precise tool for adding baking soda and vanilla.
  • Measuring cups: Accurate for portioning peanut butter and sugars.
Print
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Crunchy Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

Crunchy Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe


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4.8 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Homemade air fryer peanut butter cookies deliver irresistible comfort with crisp edges and chewy centers. Quick preparation and minimal cleanup make these treats perfect for spontaneous dessert cravings you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup (100 g) sugar
  • ½ cup (110 g) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions

  1. Mixing Foundation: Combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and egg in a mixing bowl, whisking until achieving a smooth, homogeneous texture.
  2. Flavor Infusion: Fold in baking soda, vanilla extract, and kosher salt, ensuring thorough integration throughout the dough mixture.
  3. Dough Formation: Roll the mixture into uniform, compact spheres approximately 1-inch in diameter, applying consistent pressure to maintain shape and size.
  4. Cookie Preparation: Arrange dough balls in the air fryer basket with adequate spacing, then use a fork to imprint a classic crisscross pattern across each cookie’s surface.
  5. Precision Cooking: Activate the air fryer at 350°F, carefully positioning the decorated cookies inside the cooking chamber and allowing them to transform for 6-9 minutes until edges turn a rich golden-brown.
  6. Cooling Ritual: Remove cookies from the air fryer and transfer to a wire cooling rack, letting them stabilize and set for 5-7 minutes before serving, which allows the texture to solidify and flavors to settle.

Notes

  • Precise Dough Consistency: Blend ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth, well-mixed dough that ensures even cookie texture and optimal taste.
  • Strategic Spacing Technique: Leave ample room between cookies in the air fryer basket to prevent sticking and promote uniform cooking, allowing heat to circulate freely.
  • Fork Marking Magic: Create classic crisscross patterns with gentle fork pressure, which not only adds visual appeal but helps cookies cook evenly and develop a delightful crisp exterior.
  • Cooling Critical Step: Let cookies rest on a wire rack for 5-7 minutes after cooking, allowing them to firm up and develop the perfect chewy-crisp texture before serving or storing.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 135
  • Sugar: 9 g
  • Sodium: 70 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 15 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg
Michael Rivera

Michael Rivera

Co-Founder & Culinary Instructor

Expertise

  • Classic French Cuisine
  • Artisanal Bread Baking
  • Plant-Based Culinary Innovation
  • Recipe & Menu Development
  • Interactive Online Instruction

Education

The French Culinary Institute (now part of the International Culinary Center)

  • Program: Classic Culinary Arts
  • Focus: An intensive curriculum rooted in classical French techniques, artisanal bread production, and contemporary culinary methods.

Michael Rivera is a seasoned chef and culinary instructor based in San Francisco, CA. Trained in Classic Culinary Arts at The French Culinary Institute, he refined his skills in Michelin-starred kitchens, mastering classic French techniques and artisanal bread baking. 

Passionate about making gourmet methods accessible, Michael co-founded thatsmyhome.com to share his expertise through interactive online lessons and innovative, plant-based recipes. He loves blending traditional techniques with modern ideas, encouraging home cooks to enjoy the art of cooking in a relaxed, fun environment.

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