Peggi’s Gigantic Melt In Your Mouth Crispy Peanut Butter Cookies

Save this recipe on:

When it comes to peanut butter cookies, there’s something magical about the ones that crumble slightly at the edges, boast a caramelized crunch, and practically melt on your tongue with every bite. Peggi’s Gigantic Melt In Your Mouth Crispy Peanut Butter Cookies are exactly that — a nostalgic treat that tastes like home but looks like something out of a gourmet bakery. Their golden hue, delicate sugar crust, and signature crisscross fork marks are iconic, but it’s the texture that steals the show: crisp on the outside, tender within, and laced with a rich peanut butter flavor that lingers deliciously.

This recipe is perfect for bake sales, after-school treats, or just because you deserve something sweet and delightful. The cookies are oversized, satisfying even the biggest cravings with one (okay, maybe two). Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie looking to impress, these cookies are practically foolproof and guaranteed to bring smiles. Let’s gather what we need and get started.


Ingredients for Peggi’s Gigantic Melt In Your Mouth Crispy Peanut Butter Cookies

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • Granulated sugar (for rolling)

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and peanut butter. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. Gradually add both the granulated sugar and brown sugar, continuing to beat until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add the Eggs

Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully incorporated. The mixture should look silky and rich at this point.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches, mixing on low speed until a thick dough forms. Avoid overmixing — stop as soon as no flour streaks remain.

Step 5: Chill the Dough (Optional, but Recommended)

For cookies with a more structured shape and enhanced flavor, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for 30–60 minutes. This step is especially helpful if your kitchen is warm.

Step 6: Shape and Sugar

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop generous portions of dough (around 2–3 tablespoons each) and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar, then place them a few inches apart on the prepared sheets.

Step 7: Flatten and Crisscross

Using a fork dipped in sugar, gently press down each cookie ball to flatten slightly, creating the traditional crisscross pattern.

Step 8: Bake

Bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look just set. They’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet after removal, so don’t overbake.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cool, they’re ready to devour — crispy, peanut buttery perfection.


Estimated Nutrition

Per large cookie (based on a batch of 20 cookies):

  • Calories: ~290
  • Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 190mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.


Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make these cookies even crispier?

Bake them for an extra minute or two, just until the edges are a deep golden brown. Let them cool completely on a wire rack for maximum crunch.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Yes, but make sure it’s well-stirred and not too oily. Natural peanut butter can change the texture slightly, making them a bit softer.

Can I make the cookies smaller?

Absolutely! Use a tablespoon scoop for smaller cookies and reduce baking time to 8–9 minutes.

Can I substitute almond or sunflower seed butter?

Yes — both make great substitutes for peanut butter, especially for those with allergies, but expect a different flavor profile.

Why chill the dough?

Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading, enhances flavor, and makes shaping easier — especially helpful for larger cookies.

Do these cookies spread a lot?

They spread moderately. If you want them extra thick, chill the dough longer and reduce the amount of sugar rolled on the outside.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

How do I keep the crisscross pattern from fading?

Press firmly but gently with a sugar-dusted fork, and avoid overbaking. The pattern sets better when the dough isn’t too soft.


Save this recipe on:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *