Have you ever craved the rich, nutty goodness of peanut butter cookies but found yourself out of brown sugar? You’re not alone! This peanut butter cookie recipe no brown sugar is here to save the day—and your sweet tooth. With just a few simple swaps, like using granulated sugar instead, these cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or whipping up a dairy-free treat (yes, vegan butter works like a charm!), this recipe has you covered. Ready to make the best peanut butter cookies without using brown sugar? Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe (without brown sugar)
This peanut butter cookie recipe no brown sugar is more than just a treat—it’s a celebration of simplicity, flavor, and versatility. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or a crowd, this recipe checks all the boxes. Here’s why it’s sure to become a favorite:
1. Nutrient-Rich Peanut Butter
Peanut butter isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients like magnesium and vitamin E. To learn more about the health benefits of peanut butter, explore this resource from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
2. No Brown Sugar? No Problem!
Say goodbye to last-minute grocery runs for brown sugar. This recipe uses granulated sugar instead, delivering a lighter texture while letting the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter shine through.
3. Quick and Easy Prep
With just one bowl and no chilling required, these cookies come together in minutes. It’s the perfect recipe for busy days or when you need a sweet treat fast.
4. Soft, Chewy, and Slightly Crispy
Thanks to the combination of creamy peanut butter and granulated sugar, these cookies have the ideal texture—soft and chewy in the center with lightly crisp edges.
5. Perfect for All Diets
Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or simply looking for a flexible recipe, this one has you covered. Swap in plant-based butter and non-dairy milk to make it fully vegan-friendly.
6. Endless Customization Options
Love creativity in the kitchen? These cookies are a blank canvas! Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of sea salt to make them uniquely yours.
7. Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
These cookies are simple enough for kids to help bake and universally loved by all ages. They’re perfect for school lunches, bake sales, or holiday gatherings. baking for a crowd or satisfying a late-night craving, these cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients
Let’s take a closer look at what goes into these peanut butter cookies without using brown sugar . Each ingredient plays a key role, and understanding their purpose will help you make the most of this recipe. Don’t worry—everything here is simple, accessible, and likely already in your pantry.
Here’s the lineup:
- Creamy Peanut Butter: The star of the show! Opt for a smooth, no-stir variety for consistent texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, natural peanut butter works toojust stir it well to avoid oil separation.
- Granulated Sugar: This swaps in for brown sugar and gives the cookies a lighter texture. It also helps create those irresistible golden edges.
- Unsalted Butter (or Vegan Butter): Softened butter adds richness and structure. If you’re keeping things dairy-free, vegan butter is an excellent substitute.
- Egg and Milk: These act as binders, holding everything together while keeping the cookies soft. Use non-dairy milk if you’re going the vegan route.
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure so your cookies hold their shape.
- Baking Soda and Salt: Baking soda helps the cookies rise slightly and spread beautifully, while a pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla adds warmth and depth, making these cookies taste like they came from your favorite bakery.
Pro Tip: Measure your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off. Too much flour can make your cookies dense instead of soft and chewy.
How to Make Peanut Butter Cookies Without Brown Sugar
Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking! These peanut butter cookies without using brown sugar come together in just a few simple steps. I’ll walk you through each one so you can bake with confidence—even if you’re new to the kitchen.

Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe No Brown Sugar
Ingredients
- ½ cup (110 g) unsalted butter, softened (can use vegan butter)
- ¾ cup (180 g) creamy peanut butter
- ⅔ cups (135g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 ½ Cups (190g) All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- ½ tsp Salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth
- Add the sugar and continue mixing until fluffy. Then, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie, roll into balls, and place on the prepared baking sheet. Gently press down with a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges look set but the centers are still soft. Avoid overbaking!
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Here’s how it’s done:
- Preheat and Prep:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking. This little step makes cleanup a breeze! - Cream the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter together until smooth and well combined. Think of this as the foundation of your cookie—getting it right sets the stage for success. - Add the Sweetness:
Gradually mix in the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is key for achieving that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Then, beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk until everything is smooth and cohesive. - Incorporate the Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the cookies tender. - Shape and Pattern:
Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of dough per cookie, roll it into a ball, and place it on the prepared baking sheet. Use a fork to gently press down on each ball, creating that classic crisscross pattern. It’s not just decorative—it helps the cookies bake evenly. - Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. Remember, cookies continue to firm up as they cool, so resist the urge to overbake! - Cool and Enjoy:
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time ensures they hold their shape and develop that perfect chewy texture.

And there you have it—soft, nutty, and utterly irresistible peanut butter cookies without brown sugar! Ready for some pro tips and fun variations? Let’s dive into the next section.
For more delicious recipes, check out our Desserts Section
Pro Tips and Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the basics of this peanut butter cookie recipe no brown sugar, let’s take it up a notch with some expert tips and creative twists. These little tweaks can help you customize the cookies to your liking or troubleshoot any hiccups along the way.
Pro Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overbake: The secret to soft, chewy cookies is pulling them out of the oven when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underdone. They’ll firm up as they cool.
- Use Fresh Baking Soda: This is what helps the cookies spread and rise. If your baking soda has been sitting in the pantry for years, it might not work as well—so check the expiration date!
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you live in a warm climate or your dough feels too soft to handle, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes. It’ll be easier to scoop and shape.
Fun Variations to Try:
Want to switch things up? Here are some ideas to make these cookies uniquely yours:
- Chocolate Lovers: Press a few chocolate chips into the top of each cookie before baking. Peanut butter and chocolate are a match made in heaven!
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped peanuts or almonds for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Sea Salt Magic: Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the cookies right after they come out of the oven. The contrast between sweet and salty is irresistible.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips:
- Freeze the Dough: Scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time. Perfect for last-minute cravings!
- Store Like a Pro: Keep cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze-baked cookies for up to 2 months.
With these tips and variations, you’re ready to make these peanut butter cookies without using brown sugar your own. Whether you stick to the classic version or get creative, they’re sure to be a hit. Next up, let’s talk about how to serve and enjoy these delightful treats!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked a batch of these peanut butter cookies without brown sugar, let’s talk about how to serve and enjoy them to their fullest potential. Whether you’re sharing with friends, family, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are versatile enough to fit any occasion.
Classic Pairings:
- Milk & Cookies: There’s nothing quite like dunking a warm cookie into a cold glass of milk. For a dairy-free option, try almond or oat milk—it pairs beautifully with the nutty flavor of peanut butter.
- Coffee or Tea: These cookies make a perfect companion for your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The rich peanut butter flavor balances the bitterness of coffee or the lightness of herbal tea.
Dessert Upgrades:
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: Take two cookies and sandwich a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream in between for an indulgent treat. Roll the edges in sprinkles or crushed peanuts for extra flair.
- Cookie Parfait: Layer crumbled cookies with whipped cream, yogurt, or pudding in a glass for a fun and elegant dessert parfait.
Gifting Ideas:
- Homemade Gifts: Package these cookies in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. They’re perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just because!
- Party Favors: Add a personal touch to gatherings by including these cookies as party favors. Guests will love taking home a sweet reminder of the event.
Kid-Friendly Fun:
- Let the kids help decorate the cookies with colorful sprinkles or drizzles of melted chocolate. It’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen while creating lasting memories.
Other Cookies Without Brown Sugar To Try :
FAQs About Peanut Butter Cookies Without Brown Sugar
Got questions? Don’t worry—I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries about this peanut butter cookie recipe no brown sugar, along with tips to ensure your baking experience is smooth and stress-free.
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
A: Absolutely! Natural peanut butter works, but make sure to stir it well before measuring to avoid oil separation. This ensures your dough has the right consistency for baking.
Q: Why didn’t my cookies spread or flatten during baking?
A: If your cookies stayed puffy, it could be due to old baking soda or too much flour. Double-check that your baking soda is fresh and measure your flour by spooning it into the cup (don’t scoop directly from the bag). For extra help, you can gently press the dough balls down with a fork before baking.
Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Yes, and they freeze beautifully! Store baked cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the dough—scoop it into balls, freeze on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Q: What if I don’t have parchment paper?
A: No problem! Lightly grease your baking sheet with nonstick spray or use a silicone baking mat as an alternative. Just keep an eye on the cookies to prevent sticking.
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Definitely! Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture might vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious.
How do I store leftover cookies to keep them fresh?
A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their softness, you can add a slice of bread to the container—it helps retain moisture.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
A: While reducing sugar is possible, keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens but also helps with texture and browning. If you’d like to experiment, try reducing it by no more than ¼ cup and see how the cookies turn out.
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