– 1 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky)
– 1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Creating Healthy Peanut Butter Cookies is straightforward when you follow these simple steps:
1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Peanut Butter and Sweetener: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and honey or maple syrup until smooth and well blended.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Stir in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the rolled oats, baking soda, and salt. Mix well.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Add Optional Ingredients: Fold in dark chocolate chips and/or chopped nuts if desired.
7. Scoop the Dough: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Flatten the Cookies: Gently flatten each cookie with the back of a fork or your fingers for even baking.
9. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
These straightforward steps will guide you in creating these incredible cookies in no time!