Mary Berry, a name synonymous with comforting British baking, brings us a delightful recipe for peanut butter cookies that perfectly balances simplicity with indulgence. Known for her precision in the kitchen, Mary’s take on peanut butter cookies is the epitome of a classic treat that’s easy to make yet irresistibly delicious. These cookies are rich, soft in the middle, with a crisp edge, and, of course, are packed with the deep, nutty flavor that only peanut butter can offer.
Unlike the overly chewy or overly crunchy varieties, Mary Berry’s peanut butter cookies achieve the perfect balance between texture and flavor. The peanut butter is prominent but not overwhelming, giving a subtle earthiness to the cookies while still allowing the sweetness to shine through. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of tea or serving them at a family gathering, these cookies are sure to impress.
The best part? They’re incredibly straightforward to make and require minimal effort, making them an ideal recipe for bakers of all levels-whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie looking for something fun and delicious to bake.
Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To create Mary Berry’s peanut butter cookies, you’ll need a few basic ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The simplicity of the ingredients is one of the things that makes this recipe so approachable. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:
- Peanut Butter – This is, of course, the star ingredient. Choose a creamy peanut butter with a smooth texture for the best results. While chunky peanut butter can work, it might alter the texture of the cookies, as it adds more chunks.
- Butter – Softened butter helps create the right consistency for the cookie dough. It also contributes to the rich, buttery flavor that complements the peanut butter.
- Caster Sugar – This fine sugar dissolves easily into the dough, ensuring a smooth consistency and just the right level of sweetness.
- Golden Syrup – A key ingredient in many British baked goods, golden syrup adds a subtle caramel-like sweetness and richness. You could use honey as a substitute, but golden syrup imparts a distinctive flavor that is perfect for this recipe.
- Egg – The egg binds the ingredients together and helps with the cookie’s structure. It’s essential for achieving that perfect texture.
- Plain Flour – Flour is the backbone of the dough, providing structure and helping the cookies hold their shape during baking. Plain flour, or all-purpose flour, is typically used in this recipe, rather than self-raising flour, so you can control the texture more effectively.
- Bicarbonate of Soda – This ingredient works to help the cookies rise and spread out during baking, giving them a delicate crispness on the outside while maintaining a soft center.
- Salt – A pinch of salt balances the sweetness of the sugar and enhances the nutty flavor of the peanut butter.
Optional: Chocolate Chips or Chopped Peanuts – While not required, adding a handful of chocolate chips or crushed peanuts to the dough can elevate the cookie, adding texture and an extra burst of flavor.
Equipment Needed
While you won’t need anything too specialized to bake Mary Berry’s peanut butter cookies, there are a few essential items to make sure the process goes smoothly:
- Mixing Bowl – A large mixing bowl is necessary for combining the ingredients. Ideally, choose one with a bit of room to allow for easy mixing without spilling.
- Electric Mixer or Wooden Spoon – Using an electric hand mixer will make the process easier and quicker, especially when incorporating the butter and peanut butter into the sugar. If you don’t have an electric mixer, a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula works just fine.
- Baking Tray – A flat baking tray is essential for placing the cookies before baking. Make sure it’s lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
- Cooling Rack – Once the cookies are baked, it’s important to allow them to cool properly to maintain their crispiness. A cooling rack allows air to circulate around the cookies, helping them cool evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – Precision is key in baking, so make sure you have the correct tools for measuring both wet and dry ingredients.
- Cookie Scoop or Spoon – To ensure even-sized cookies, a cookie scoop works wonders. If you don’t have one, a regular tablespoon can also do the trick.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Making these peanut butter cookies is as easy as gathering the ingredients and following a few simple steps. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F), ensuring it’s nice and hot when the cookies go in. Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and peanut butter until they’re smooth and creamy. Add the sugar, golden syrup, and egg, and mix until the ingredients are well combined. You’ll want a soft, homogenous mixture.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Sift the plain flour, bicarbonate of soda, and salt into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overwork the dough. Over-mixing can result in tough cookies, so gently fold the flour mixture in.
- Shape the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the prepared baking tray. Leave enough space between each ball of dough (about 2 inches) as the cookies will spread as they bake. Flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a fork, creating a criss-cross pattern on top of each cookie.
- Bake the Cookies: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be golden brown around the edges but soft in the center. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
- Cool and Enjoy: Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Let them cool completely before serving, though you might be tempted to eat them warm-they’re so delicious fresh out of the oven!
Tips And Tricks
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing. Cold ingredients can make the dough hard to blend properly.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: As tempting as it might be, avoid overmixing the dough after adding the flour. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough cookies rather than soft and crumbly ones.
- Make Them Bigger or Smaller: If you prefer larger or smaller cookies, you can easily adjust the size of the dough balls. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly if you’re making them bigger or smaller.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chilling the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies retain their shape and improve their texture.
- Add Mix-ins: Feel free to get creative with the recipe. You can add chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a bit of sea salt on top of each cookie before baking for extra flavor.
- Storage: These cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage. If you freeze them, be sure to place parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Mary Berry’s peanut butter cookies are a delightful, simple treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with a buttery, soft cookie base. With only a few ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers alike. Whether you’re baking them to enjoy with your family, share with friends, or simply indulge in a delicious homemade snack, these cookies will undoubtedly become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. By following the straightforward instructions and using a few key tips, you’ll create a batch of cookies that are crispy on the outside and delightfully soft on the inside-a timeless treat that never goes out of style.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies are a delicious treat, but what makes them even more exciting is their versatility. While the classic recipe is already mouthwatering, there are countless ways to put your own spin on this beloved cookie. Whether you’re aiming for a more decadent flavor profile or looking to try something different, here are a few creative variations to elevate your peanut butter cookie game.
1. Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies
Add an extra layer of indulgence by folding in some chocolate chips. The richness of the chocolate complements the creamy, nutty flavor of the peanut butter, creating a delightful contrast. For an even more luxurious treat, try using peanut butter chips alongside or in place of regular chocolate chips.
2. Peanut Butter And Banana Cookies
For a fun twist, incorporate mashed ripe banana into the dough. The banana adds a natural sweetness and moisture to the cookies, enhancing their flavor while keeping them soft and chewy. The pairing of peanut butter and banana evokes the nostalgic taste of a classic sandwich, but in cookie form!
3. Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies
If you love the hearty texture of oatmeal, consider adding rolled oats to the cookie dough. The oats provide a slight chewiness and rustic texture that works beautifully with the smooth peanut butter. For extra flair, you can add raisins or dried cranberries, which pair well with the nutty richness.
4. Peanut Butter And Jelly Cookies
A playful take on the timeless peanut butter and jelly sandwich! Instead of simply making a traditional peanut butter cookie, spoon a small amount of fruit jam (strawberry, raspberry, or grape) onto the center of each cookie before baking. The result is a gooey, sweet surprise in the middle, reminiscent of a PB&J.
5. Crunchy Peanut Butter Cookies
If you enjoy a bit of extra crunch, opt for crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy. This variation enhances the texture, adding little peanut pieces throughout the dough for a satisfying bite. You can even sprinkle crushed salted peanuts or candied pecans on top before baking for an additional layer of crunch.
6. Vegan Peanut Butter Cookies
For those following a plant-based diet, Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies can easily be made vegan-friendly. Swap the butter for dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens). Ensure the peanut butter is also free of any animal-derived ingredients, and you’re good to go!
7. Peanut Butter And Pretzel Cookies
For a sweet and salty flavor combination, try adding crushed pretzels to the dough. The salty crunch of the pretzels balances the creamy sweetness of the peanut butter perfectly. You can even drizzle some melted chocolate on top of the cookies after they’ve baked for a delicious finishing touch.
With these simple modifications, you can turn Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies into a whole range of different treats that suit various tastes and dietary preferences. These variations not only keep things exciting but also allow you to experiment with new flavors and textures, all while staying true to the cookie’s delightful base.
Storing Leftovers
Once you’ve baked a batch of Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies (or any variation you choose to make), you may wonder how best to store any leftovers to keep them fresh. Proper storage ensures that your cookies stay delicious and retain their perfect texture for as long as possible. Here are some tips for storing your peanut butter cookies:
1. Room Temperature Storage
If you plan to eat the cookies within a few days, storing them at room temperature is perfectly fine. Simply place the cookies in an airtight container or a cookie tin to keep them from going stale. You can layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking. The cookies should stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days when stored this way.
2. Freezing Peanut Butter Cookies
For longer storage, freezing your cookies is a great option. Start by letting the cookies cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. This will prevent the cookies from sticking together and help them maintain their freshness. Frozen cookies can last for up to 3 months, and you can simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.
3. Storing Cookie Dough
If you prefer to bake the cookies in batches, storing the dough is an excellent option. After preparing the dough, divide it into individual portions using a cookie scoop, then roll each into a ball. Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze them for 1-2 hours. Once firm, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook them directly from the freezer-just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
4. Avoid Refrigeration For Long-Term Storage
While refrigerating peanut butter cookies may seem like a good way to extend their shelf life, it can actually cause them to dry out or become too hard. Refrigeration can also alter the flavor, so it’s best to avoid it unless you are planning to freeze the cookies for later.
By using these storage techniques, you can enjoy Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies fresh out of the oven-or at any time-without worrying about them losing their delicious texture or flavor.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies?
Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be paired with various treats and beverages for an even more satisfying experience. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering, enjoying a quiet moment, or looking for a way to elevate your cookie enjoyment, here are a few delicious ideas of what to eat with these cookies:
1. A Glass Of Milk
The classic pairing for peanut butter cookies has to be a cold glass of milk. The creaminess of the milk complements the nutty, slightly salty taste of the peanut butter, making each bite even more enjoyable. For a fun twist, try different types of milk-almond, oat, or even chocolate milk-for an added flavor dimension.
2. Ice Cream
What could be better than pairing peanut butter cookies with a scoop of ice cream? The rich, nutty flavor of the cookies goes beautifully with many ice cream flavors. Vanilla, chocolate, or salted caramel would work wonderfully, but you could also try a peanut butter cup flavor for an even more indulgent treat. Serve the cookies alongside the ice cream for a classic dessert experience, or create an ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop between two cookies.
3. Coffee Or Tea
For a more grown-up pairing, a hot cup of coffee or tea is perfect with peanut butter cookies. The richness of coffee, especially a latte or cappuccino, enhances the flavor of the cookies, and the warmth balances the sweetness. For tea lovers, a light Earl Grey or chamomile tea can be an excellent choice-providing a soothing, aromatic complement to the richness of the cookies.
4. Fruit
For a lighter option, fresh fruit can offer a refreshing contrast to the density of peanut butter cookies. Slices of apple or pear are a perfect balance of sweet and tart, and they pair well with the richness of peanut butter. You could also serve the cookies with berries, such as strawberries or raspberries, which bring a bright, tangy freshness to each bite.
5. Cheese
While it might sound unconventional, pairing peanut butter cookies with a small serving of creamy cheese, such as Brie or mascarpone, can be an unexpectedly delightful combination. The rich, soft texture of the cheese enhances the cookies’ flavor while providing a luxurious contrast in mouthfeel. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkling of crushed nuts on top of the cheese can take this pairing to another level.
6. Chocolate Fondue
For a more decadent treat, serve Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies with a bowl of chocolate fondue. Dip the cookies into the melted chocolate for an indulgent, sweet experience. This pairing is perfect for a dessert party or a special occasion.
These ideas not only elevate your enjoyment of Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies but also open the door to a wide range of flavors and textures that can be mixed and matched depending on the occasion or your personal preference.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies are a timeless favorite, offering a balance of rich flavor and chewy texture that appeals to many. The recipe’s inherent versatility allows for a range of easy variations, from adding chocolate chips or oats to making vegan-friendly cookies or even peanut butter and banana cookies. With just a few adjustments, you can make these cookies your own and delight in different flavor combinations each time you bake.
In terms of storage, whether you keep the cookies at room temperature or freeze them for later, ensuring they’re stored properly will preserve their freshness and taste. Additionally, these cookies aren’t just perfect on their own-they can be paired with a variety of beverages and treats, from a simple glass of milk to decadent ice cream or even coffee.
Ultimately, Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies offer endless possibilities for customization, enjoyment, and sharing with loved ones. No matter how you choose to bake or pair them, they’re sure to remain a delicious staple in any kitchen.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients In Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies?
Mary Berry’s peanut butter cookies typically require a few basic ingredients: butter, peanut butter, sugar, an egg, plain flour, and baking powder. These simple pantry staples come together to create a soft and chewy texture with a rich peanut flavor.
Can I Use Smooth Or Crunchy Peanut Butter For Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies?
Yes, you can use either smooth or crunchy peanut butter in Mary Berry’s peanut butter cookies. Smooth peanut butter will give you a smoother texture in the cookies, while crunchy peanut butter will add little bits of crunch throughout the dough, creating a more textured bite.
How Can I Prevent Mary Berry’s Peanut Butter Cookies From Spreading Too Much While Baking?
To prevent your peanut butter cookies from spreading too much, make sure the dough is chilled for at least 30 minutes before baking. Additionally, ensure that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature, and avoid overmixing the dough, as this can cause the cookies to spread excessively.
