There’s nothing quite like the smell of warm, freshly baked peanut butter cookies filling your kitchen. But what if I told you that you could skip the oven and make these irresistible treats in your air fryer? That’s right! These Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies are not only quick and easy to make but also come out with the perfect balance of crisp edges and a soft, chewy center.

If you love peanut butter (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), this recipe is a game-changer. It’s made with simple ingredients, requires minimal effort, and is ready in just a few minutes. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute dessert or a fun baking project, these cookies are sure to become a household favorite. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No oven needed – The air fryer does all the work, making this recipe perfect for warm days when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
• Minimal ingredients – You probably already have everything you need in your pantry.
• Quick & easy – From start to finish, these cookies take less than 15 minutes!
• Deliciously soft & chewy – Thanks to the air fryer, these cookies bake evenly, with just the right amount of crispness on the outside and softness on the inside.

Let’s Get Baking!

Before we dive in, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky – your choice!)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (for that extra depth of flavor)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but highly recommended)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (optional, for a lighter texture)

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by grabbing a mixing bowl and combining the peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract (if using), and baking soda (if using).

Mix everything together until it’s well incorporated and forms a smooth dough. You can use a wooden spoon, but I personally like using a hand mixer—it makes things easier and ensures that everything blends perfectly.

Now, here’s a little pro tip: If your dough feels a bit sticky, you can pop it in the fridge for about 10–15 minutes. This makes it easier to handle when shaping the cookies.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

Once your dough is ready, roll it into 1-inch balls (about the size of a tablespoon). Then, flatten them slightly using a fork, making that classic crisscross pattern on top.

Not only does this pattern look great, but it also helps the cookies bake evenly. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even sprinkle a little sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost!

Place the shaped cookies on a small sheet of parchment paper or a silicone mat that fits into your air fryer basket. Be sure to leave a little space between each cookie, as they will spread slightly as they bake.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Just like with an oven, preheating your air fryer is key to ensuring even baking. Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up for about 3 minutes. This quick step helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents any undercooked centers.

While you wait, take a moment to double-check your cookie placement on the parchment paper. You want to make sure they have a little space between them—about 1 inch apart—so they don’t stick together as they spread.

Step 4: Cook the Cookies

Now comes the fun part—baking! Carefully place the parchment paper with your cookie dough into the air fryer basket. Be gentle to avoid shifting the cookies around.

How Long to Air Fry Peanut Butter Cookies?

• Set the air fryer timer for 6–8 minutes.
• Check at the 6-minute mark—you’re looking for cookies that are set on the edges but still slightly soft in the center.
• If they look too soft, give them another 1–2 minutes, but be careful not to overbake! They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Pro Tip: Every air fryer is slightly different, so keep an eye on your first batch to get a feel for the perfect timing in your specific model.

Cooling for the Best Texture

Once the cookies are done baking, resist the temptation to move them right away! They will be very soft when they first come out, but they’ll firm up as they cool.

Here’s what to do:

1. Leave the cookies on the parchment paper in the air fryer basket for 2–3 minutes before moving them.
2. Carefully transfer them to a cooling rack and let them sit for another 5–10 minutes to fully set.

This short waiting period makes all the difference. It allows the cookies to develop that perfect chewy texture while still staying soft in the center.

Expert Tips for the Best Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies

• Use natural peanut butter for a richer taste – If you prefer a more intense peanut butter flavor, go for a natural variety. Just make sure to stir it well before using!
• Chill the dough for even better cookies – If you have a few extra minutes, refrigerate the dough for 10–15 minutes before rolling. This makes the dough easier to handle and prevents spreading.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer – If you’re making a big batch, bake in smaller batches to ensure even air circulation.
• Sprinkle with sea salt – A tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking takes these cookies to the next level!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cookies without baking soda?

Absolutely! The baking soda is optional in this recipe. It helps create a lighter texture, but if you leave it out, the cookies will still be deliciously soft and chewy.

2. Why are my cookies too soft or undercooked?

If your cookies seem too soft, they may need another 1–2 minutes in the air fryer. However, remember that they will firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake them. They should look set on the edges but still slightly soft in the middle when you take them out.

3. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth?

Yes! If you love a little extra texture, crunchy peanut butter works great in this recipe. It adds small peanut bits to every bite, making the cookies even more satisfying.

4. How do I store these cookies?

Once completely cooled, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when ready to eat!

5. Can I make these cookies with a sugar substitute?

Yes! You can swap the granulated and brown sugar with a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener or erythritol for a lower-sugar version. Just note that the texture may vary slightly.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Definitely! If you want to make a bigger batch, simply double the ingredients. Just remember to bake in small batches so the cookies have enough space in the air fryer.

7. What if I don’t have parchment paper?

No problem! You can use a silicone baking mat instead. If you don’t have either, lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray, but be careful—some air fryers may not react well to sprays, so check your manual first.

Final Thoughts & Serving Suggestions

There you have it—quick, easy, and incredibly delicious peanut butter cookies made right in your air fryer! They’re the perfect treat for any occasion, whether you’re satisfying a sweet craving, making an after-school snack, or whipping up a last-minute dessert.

Ways to Enjoy These Cookies

• Classic Style: Pair them with a cold glass of milk for a nostalgic treat.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Sandwich a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies—trust me, it’s amazing!
• Dipped in Chocolate: Melt some dark chocolate and dip half of each cookie for an extra indulgent twist.
• Peanut Butter & Jelly Version: Spread a little strawberry or grape jam on top of each cookie for a fun PB&J spin!

Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!