Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

There’s just something irresistible about Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies — those crispy edges, soft and chewy centers, and that signature fork-pressed crisscross always bring a rush of nostalgia and delight. The best part is how shockingly easy they are to make! With just a handful of pantry staples and a trusty air fryer, you can have a batch of perfectly golden cookies in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re craving a quick treat or want to wow friends with a gluten-free dessert, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a plate of sweet, peanutty bliss.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about these cookies is how every ingredient plays a vital role. You don’t need anything fancy, just classic components that each contribute their own bold flavor, satisfying bite, and golden color to the mix. Let’s walk through what makes these cookies so delightful!

• Creamy Peanut Butter: The star of the show brings rich flavor and that dreamy melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds noticeable sweetness and helps the edges get just the right amount of crisp.
• Packed Brown Sugar: Deepens the flavor with a hint of molasses and gives the cookies a chewy middle.
• Large Egg: Binds all the ingredients together so your cookies don’t crumble apart.
• Vanilla Extract: Lends warmth and rounds out the peanut buttery goodness.
• Baking Soda: Gives your cookies a gentle lift, so they don’t turn out dense.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out all the flavors.

How to Make Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Mix Your Cookie Dough

Grab a medium mixing bowl and add your creamy peanut butter, both sugars, the egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Stir everything together until you have a thick, smooth, and glossy dough. You’re building the foundation for those iconic Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies, so don’t skimp on mixing — make sure no streaks remain.

Step 2: Shape and Impress

Scoop out tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into little balls between your palms. Place each dough ball on a plate or tray. Now comes the fun part: use a fork to gently press each ball, creating a signature crisscross pattern. This not only looks classic but helps the cookies cook evenly in the air fryer.

Step 3: Prepare Your Air Fryer Basket

Line the bottom of your air fryer basket with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Arrange your cookie dough balls in a single layer, spacing them apart to allow plenty of room for airflow and spreading. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you’ll likely bake these in batches.

Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and “bake” the cookies for 6 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them — you want the edges turning golden while the centers are set but slightly soft. Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies continue to firm up after you take them out, so an early pull from the basket is key for that perfect texture.

Step 5: Cool and Repeat

Once the cookies are done, let them sit in the basket for 3 to 5 minutes to finish setting. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Repeat with the remaining dough, lining the basket with fresh parchment as needed. The wait is the hardest part, but I promise it’s worth every second!

How to Serve Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

Garnishes

A little finishing touch goes a long way! Sprinkle your freshly baked cookies with flaky sea salt while they’re still warm for a pop of flavor, or drizzle with a bit of melted chocolate for added decadence. If you’re feeling fancy, a dusting of confectioners’ sugar can give them a playful, bakery-style look.

Side Dishes

Milk is the obvious and unbeatable classic, especially when served icy cold. For a grown-up twist, try pairing Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies with fresh fruit, vanilla ice cream, or even a robust cup of coffee. These cookies are fantastic as part of a dessert platter alongside brownies and fresh berries.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the cookies in a tower and tie with baker’s twine for a cute gift, or arrange them in a wide-mouthed jar for a nostalgic “cookie shop” feel. For parties, let guests make their own ice cream sandwiches by sandwiching a scoop between two cookies. The rich peanut butter flavor makes them a standout on any dessert table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, keep your Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay wonderfully chewy for up to four days. If your kitchen is humid, a sheet of parchment between layers will prevent sticking and keep them looking picture-perfect.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Once completely cooled, layer them with parchment in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. They’ll last up to two months. Just grab one whenever you’re craving a quick peanut buttery snack — they thaw in minutes at room temperature.

Reheating

Want that fresh-from-the-air-fryer warmth? Pop a cookie or two into your air fryer at 300°F for a minute or use a quick burst in the microwave. This revives their soft, tender center and crisp edges. Don’t overdo it, as a little warmth is all they need to taste bakery-fresh again.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds bits of peanut throughout the cookies for an extra layer of texture and a delightful crunch. Just swap it in for the creamy version without any other changes to the recipe.

Do I really need parchment paper in the air fryer?

Yes, parchment makes removal a breeze and prevents sticking or burning in the air fryer basket. If you don’t have any, give the basket a light coat of nonstick spray, but parchment is best for easy cleanup and perfect cookies every time.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Look for golden edges and a center that’s set but still soft. Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so take them out when they seem slightly underbaked for a tender, chewy bite.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! Double the ingredients, but air fry in batches so you don’t crowd the basket. This ensures every cookie gets that irresistible golden finish and doesn’t bake into its neighbor.

Are these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Since there’s no flour in the recipe, Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies are naturally gluten-free, making them perfect for sharing with friends or family who avoid gluten.

Final Thoughts

There’s something special about baking a batch of Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies — not just because they’re easy, fast, and packed with flavor, but because they never fail to bring a smile. Try them for yourself, and you’ll see just how magical a few simple ingredients can be when transformed in your air fryer. Happy baking!

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