Hey there, cookie lovers! If you’re anything like me, you’ll love this peanut butter cookie recipe no brown sugar — it’s pure comfort in every bite. There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh-baked cookies wafting through the house to lift your spirits. Today, we’re diving into a scrumptious twist that skips the brown sugar but still packs all the flavor and nostalgia you crave. This is the perfect pick-me-up for those 4PM slumps when you need a sweet treat to get you through the rest of the day.
Now, why no brown sugar, you ask? Maybe you ran out, maybe you’re trying to cut back on refined sugars, or maybe you’re just curious. Whatever the reason, I’m here to tell you — you won’t miss the brown sugar one bit in these delightful cookies. Let’s get baking!
Table of Contents
Why Choose a Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe Without Brown Sugar?
First off, peanut butter is the star of the show here, and honestly, it doesn’t need much else to shine. Typically, brown sugar adds moisture and a caramel-like flavor, but this recipe balances everything beautifully with simple ingredients. Plus, using just granulated sugar makes these cookies even easier to whip up with pantry staples.
Healthier bonus? Skipping brown sugar can slightly lower the refined sugar load while still delivering an irresistible flavor and texture.

Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be pleased to know that this peanut butter cookie recipe no brown sugar uses just a handful of everyday ingredients:
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (or crunchy, if you love texture)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Tip: Make sure your peanut butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and smoother dough.
Step-by-Step: Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe No Brown Sugar

1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and egg. Stir until well blended — the mixture will be thick, so don’t worry if it feels a little stiff.
3. Add Flavor Boosters
Mix in the vanilla extract, salt, and baking soda until everything is fully incorporated. You should have a dough that’s easy to shape.
4. Shape Your Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one. Use a fork to gently press a crisscross pattern onto the top of each cookie.
5. Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden. They’ll firm up more as they cool.
6. Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tip: If you love super soft cookies, pull them out of the oven just when the tops look set but still soft.

Why You’ll Love These Cookies
- Rich Peanut Butter Flavor: No brown sugar means the peanut butter shines even more.
- Incredibly Easy: One bowl, no fancy mixers needed, and minimal ingredients.
- Perfect Texture: Soft and chewy inside, lightly crisp at the edges.
- Naturally Gluten-Free (with a small tweak): Use certified gluten-free peanut butter and baking soda.
Honestly, this peanut butter cookie recipe no brown sugar might just become your new go-to for quick, cozy baking.
Tips for the Perfect Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe No Brown Sugar
- Use quality peanut butter: Natural peanut butter works too, but make sure it’s well stirred.
- Don’t skip the salt: It balances the sweetness and deepens the peanut flavor.
- Chill the dough: If your kitchen is hot, pop the dough in the fridge for 10 minutes before shaping.
- Add-ins? Absolutely. Chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top before baking.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temp. They stay fresh for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Let them cool fully first, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Dough Freezing: You can also freeze the raw cookie dough balls! Just shape, freeze on a tray, and transfer to a bag once solid. Bake straight from frozen — just add 1-2 extra minutes.
Variations to Try
Feeling adventurous? This base recipe is super versatile:
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over cooled cookies.
- Chunky Monkey: Add mini chocolate chips and chopped walnuts.
- Peanut Butter Blossoms: Press a chocolate kiss into the center after baking.
Other Cookie Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re a fan of cozy, simple bakes, here are a few more ideas:
- Oatmeal Cookie Recipe Without Brown Sugar — chewy, hearty, and full of flavor.
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Without Brown Sugar — for when you’re craving a classic with a twist.
- Old Fashioned Peanut Butter Cookies — the ultimate nostalgic treat.
External Inspiration
Want to nerd out a little on cookie baking science?
Check out Serious Eats’ Cookie Guide — it’s packed with tips for customizing cookie texture and flavor like a pro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use granulated sugar instead of brown sugar?
Granulated sugar provides sweetness and structure while allowing the natural peanut butter flavor to shine.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used for added texture and flavor.
How do I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
What are some add-ins I can include?
Consider adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Cozy Closing
So there you have it — the ultimate peanut butter cookie recipe no brown sugar that’s simple, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a cozy afternoon treat, these cookies will hit the spot every time.
Don’t forget: Baking isn’t just about the end result — it’s about the memories you create along the way. Happy baking, my friends!
If you’re hungry for more, be sure to check out easycookmeal.com for even more cozy, heartwarming recipes!
Print
Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe Without Brown Sugar
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious peanut butter cookie recipe that omits brown sugar for a healthier, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Main:
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
Baking:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, and egg. Stir until well blended.
3. Add vanilla extract, salt, and baking soda. Mix until fully incorporated.
4. Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
5. Press a fork into each dough ball to create a crisscross pattern.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
7. Cool on baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Ensure peanut butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Without Brown Sugar
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: peanut butter cookie, no brown sugar, easy cookies, baking, sweet treats