Is there anything more recognizable than the classic crosshatch on the top of a homemade peanut butter cookie? It’s been the “mark” of this classic treat for more than eighty years, and for good reason: by flattening this dense cookie dough, it ensures that each cookie bakes evenly.

Our kitchen-tested recipe is a classic. In fact, home cooks from all over have said these are the best peanut butter cookies they’ve ever made! The cookies have a nice, smooth peanut butter taste and bake up surprisingly tender and light—never dry or crumbly. Thanks to the shortening, they have the consistency of a molasses cookie: slightly chewy, but with a satisfyingly snappy bite. And there’s just the right amount of salt to bring out all that peanutty richness and balance out the sweetness.

This easy peanut butter cookie recipe is convenient and travels well: Bring them to your next potluck or party—at the end of the night, we guarantee you’ll go home with an empty cookie plate. Pack them in your picnic basket or tuck them in your kids’ lunchboxes. Or, bring them to your holiday cookie exchange. You just can’t go wrong with a classic!

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Make-and-Take Recipes for Parties & Picnics