If you’re searching for a healthy, simple, and incredibly delicious cookie recipe, you’ve come to the right place! These 4-ingredient peanut butter cookies are my absolute favorite for guilt-free indulgence. They’re naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and packed with protein, making them perfect for a quick treat or snack. I always find myself stashing a few away because my husband manages to devour them before I even get a chance to enjoy them!
What’s even better? This recipe is so versatile. You can enjoy it as is or customize it to your liking with a few optional extras like nuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of salt to take them up a notch. Let’s get baking!
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Simple Ingredients: Just 4 main ingredients you likely already have at home.
- Healthy and Guilt-Free: Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and made with almond flour—no refined sugar or processed flour!
- Quick to Make: Mix, bake, and enjoy in less than 20 minutes.
- Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: A perfect treat for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy for a smoother texture, but I personally love using crunchy for extra bite!)
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup (a natural sweetener for that perfect touch of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup finely ground almond flour (use blanched almonds for the best results)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1/3 cup organic roasted salted peanuts (my favorite for added crunch!)
- A handful of dark chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
- Flaky sea salt for sprinkling on top to balance the sweetness.
Instructions
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Mix the Wet Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix well until smooth and creamy.
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Add Almond Flour:
- Gradually add the almond flour to the wet mixture, stirring until everything is well incorporated. The dough should be thick but workable.
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Add Optional Extras:
- If you’re adding roasted peanuts or chocolate chips, gently fold them into the dough for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
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Scoop and Shape:
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop portions of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly flatten each cookie with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern. This not only looks beautiful but helps the cookies bake evenly.
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Sprinkle with Salt (Optional):
- If you like a sweet and salty combination, sprinkle a small amount of flaky sea salt on top of each cookie.
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Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cookies for 12–14 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking—almond flour cookies can cook quickly!
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Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. They’ll firm up as they cool.
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Enjoy!
- Serve these delightful cookies with a glass of almond milk, coffee, or your favorite tea for a perfect treat.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Peanut Butter: Use natural peanut butter with no added sugar or oils for the healthiest option. Stir well before using.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: A small sprinkle of flaky sea salt enhances the overall flavor, especially if your peanut butter is unsalted.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the fridge for a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage!
Why Almond Flour?
Almond flour is a healthier alternative to traditional flour. It’s naturally gluten-free, high in protein, and adds a wonderful nutty flavor to these cookies. Finely ground almond flour from blanched almonds works best in this recipe, ensuring a soft and chewy texture.
Final Thoughts
These healthy peanut butter cookies are not only easy to make but are a crowd-pleaser in my household. The combination of creamy peanut butter, natural sweetness from maple syrup, and the nutty texture of almond flour creates a cookie that’s both nutritious and satisfying. They’re perfect for kids, adults, and anyone looking for a wholesome, homemade treat.
Give them a try—you’ll fall in love with every bite! And don’t forget to stash a few away before they disappear! 😉
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