 The “baking therapy” discussed on this blog refers to my personal experience using baking as a self-help and relaxation tool.”
Hey everybirdy!
Sometimes the need for something sweet hits hard, but you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. I went searching for a fast 3-ingredient cookie and found this classic peanut butter recipe. It’s simple, effective, and hits that perfect “not too sweet” spot. To make it even better, I added a special family chocolate glaze on top!
Why This Recipe is My Favorite Baking Therapy
When I’m feeling overwhelmed or clumsy, I don’t want a recipe with a million steps. This 3-ingredient bake is my ultimate “low-stress” session. There’s no flour to mess with and no chilling required. Just simple mixing and scooping. It’s a great reminder that even with very little, you can create something comforting and delicious.
đź“‹ Pro Tips for 3-Ingredient Cookies
- The “Dad” Glaze: The chocolate topping is a family recipe passed down from my dad. We usually use it for quick chocolate milk, but it makes a perfect thick glaze for these cookies!
- Consistency is Key: For the glaze, you want it a little thicker than average icing. If it’s too runny, just add a bit more sugar.
- The 8-Minute Motto: You all know my rule—”You can always add time, never subtract it.” Start with 8 minutes and add more only if they still look wet.
đź›’ Essentials
For the Peanut Butter Cookies:
- 1 cup Peanut Butter (Creamy or crunchy works!)
- 1 cup Sugar
- 1 Large Egg
For the Family Recipe Chocolate Glaze:
- 2 Tbsp Cocoa Powder
- 4 Tbsp Sugar (The secret is always having more sugar than cocoa!)
- 1 to 2 Tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 to 2 Tbsp Water (Add just enough to stir it into a thick paste)
Visit my Patreon for a free post featuring the full Walmart price breakdown for this budget-friendly bake!
👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep:
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix:
Combine the peanut butter, sugar, and egg in a large bowl. Mix until everything is completely combined into a smooth dough.
3. Scoop:
Using a cookie scoop or a teaspoon, shape the dough into small balls and place them on your prepared sheets.
4. Bake:
Bake for about 8 minutes. Let them cool slightly in the pan so they firm up.
5. Glaze:
While the cookies cool, whisk your cocoa powder, sugar, oil, and water. Drizzle or spoon the thick chocolate glaze over each cookie.
âť“ Common Baking Questions (Q&A)
Q: Are these cookies gluten-free?
Robby: Yes! Since there is no flour involved, these are naturally gluten-free as long as your peanut butter isn’t processed in a facility with wheat.
Q: Can I use natural peanut butter?
Robby: You can, but make sure it is stirred very well. If the oil is separated, the cookies might spread too much.
Final Thoughts on Kitchen Therapy
I love these cookies in a pinch. When life feels a bit “socially awkward” or loud, I just go with this recipe to find my quiet moment. I hope this simple treat brings you as much peace as it does for me!
Support the Baking Therapy Mission
Become a member of the Birdhouse on either/both my Kofi and Patreon.
What to expect from Patreon: Budget Breakdown for all of my recipes.
Kofi: Same Budget Breakdown posts on Patreon.
Commissions on Kofi:
[NEW] Recipes for Life Series: I’ve launched a special series of “Pay What You Want” digital recipe cards on my Ko-fi Shop. You can download them for $0, or choose to tip whatever you feel they are worth. It’s my way of making sure everyone has access to a little kitchen therapy, regardless of their budget.
The Bake Doctor! Fix your bakes! Send me a photo/recipe and get a text-based diagnosis to save your next batch.
The Pantry Scavenger! Clear the cupboards! Tell me your “mystery items,” and I’ll find a way to make them delicious.
Hooked on a Baked Good: Whipping up some cute baked good-inspired crochet items. I’ll send you these amazing crochet items (at a small cost for the yarn + shipping). You might also find a one-of-a-kind recipe card.
Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Peanut Butter
- 1 Cup Sugar
- 1 egg
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350.
- Mix all ingredients together.
- Make 1 tbsp sized cookies. and flatten the cookies with the fork.
- Bake for about 8 minutes, or until golden brown.
