If you’re searching for a truly crave-worthy low-carb treat, Keto Peanut Butter Cookies might just be your new go-to dessert. These cookies are blissfully simple to make yet deliver that classic, nutty, sweet bite you expect from the best peanut butter cookies—minus the sugar crash. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, they whip up in minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or any time a cookie craving strikes. Rich, chewy, and deeply satisfying, Keto Peanut Butter Cookies prove you really can have it all while staying true to your keto lifestyle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of these cookies is how a few key ingredients come together to create magic. Each component has its role, working in harmony to give the cookies their signature taste, texture, and golden appearance.
- Natural peanut butter (1 cup): Adds rich, classic peanut flavor while keeping the cookie moist; opt for unsweetened and unsalted for keto purity.
- Granulated erythritol or keto-friendly sweetener (1/2 cup): Gives sweetness without the carbs or blood sugar spike, and keeps the cookies keto compliant.
- Large egg (1): Binds everything together and creates that soft, chewy texture everyone loves in a cookie.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the peanut flavor and adds a warm, homey aroma.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Only add if your peanut butter isn’t salted – just enough to enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Keto Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. This way, the cookies bake up evenly and come off the tray without a fuss.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, erythritol, egg, vanilla extract, and salt (if your peanut butter is unsalted). Stir everything together until the mixture is completely smooth and uniform. It’ll only take a minute or two and should look creamy and cohesive.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into small balls with your hands. Arrange these on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart since they’ll puff up a bit as they bake.
Step 4: Flatten in Crisscross Pattern
Gently press each dough ball with the back of a fork, creating that classic crisscross pattern. This step not only gives your Keto Peanut Butter Cookies their nostalgic look but also helps them bake more evenly.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, just until the edges are set and lightly golden. The cookies will appear soft at first but don’t worry—they firm up as they cool. Let them rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Keto Peanut Butter Cookies
Keto Peanut Butter Cookies Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle a little flaky sea salt on top right after baking, or drizzle with melted sugar-free chocolate. A handful of chopped peanuts stirred into the dough can also add a delightful crunch.
Side Dishes
Pair Keto Peanut Butter Cookies with a tall glass of unsweetened almond milk, a creamy keto latte, or even some Greek yogurt for a sweet-meets-savory snack plate. They also play well alongside fresh berries for added color and a hint of tartness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking them in a pretty jar tied with ribbon for a gift, or make a cookie sandwich by spreading a little keto chocolate or whipped cream between two cookies. You can even crumble them over keto-friendly ice cream for the ultimate treat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keto Peanut Butter Cookies store like a dream. Just place any extras in an airtight container once fully cooled, and they’ll stay fresh and soft on your counter for up to 5 days. If you plan to enjoy them throughout the week, this method works perfectly.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a zip-top bag or airtight container. Layer parchment or wax paper between cookies to prevent sticking. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 2 months, making them ideal for meal-prepping your dessert stash.
Reheating
There’s nothing quite like a warm cookie! If you’d like to enjoy your Keto Peanut Butter Cookies hot, just pop one in the microwave for 10–15 seconds straight from the fridge or room temperature. For frozen cookies, let them thaw for about 20 minutes before gently warming, if desired.
FAQs
Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?
Absolutely! Almond butter works well in this recipe and gives a deliciously different flavor profile while maintaining that soft, chewy texture. Just be sure your almond butter is natural and unsweetened to keep the recipe keto-friendly.
Do these cookies spread much in the oven?
Keto Peanut Butter Cookies don’t spread like traditional cookies, which is why flattening them with a fork before baking is important. This helps them bake evenly and ensures the perfect thickness.
Why are my cookies so soft after baking?
It’s completely normal for them to be soft right out of the oven. As they cool, Keto Peanut Butter Cookies firm up, resulting in that perfect chewy bite. Avoid moving them too soon to keep their shape intact.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, roll and shape as usual—the chill time can actually help the flavors develop.
Is it okay to add chocolate chips or nuts?
Definitely! Stir in a few tablespoons of sugar-free chocolate chips or chopped peanuts before rolling out the dough. This adds extra texture and flavor without breaking your keto commitment.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something special about sharing a batch of freshly baked Keto Peanut Butter Cookies, whether you’re treating yourself or surprising a friend. With simple ingredients and unbeatable flavor, they’re proof that keto desserts can be every bit as delicious as their classic counterparts. Give them a try and see how quickly they disappear from your cookie jar!
Print
Keto Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 16 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Keto Peanut Butter Cookies are the perfect low-carb, sugar-free treat for those following a ketogenic diet. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies in no time.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 cup natural peanut butter (no sugar added)
- ½ cup granulated erythritol or other keto-friendly sweetener
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt (omit if peanut butter is salted)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix the dough: In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter, erythritol, egg, vanilla extract, and salt (if using) until smooth.
- Form the cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough, roll into balls, place on baking sheet, and flatten with a fork.
- Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- For extra crunch, stir in chopped peanuts.
- Cookies will be soft when warm but firm up as they cool.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
