Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps ensure even baking and quicker cooking.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Stir everything together until a smooth, cohesive dough forms. If you want to add extra flavor, fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or seeds at this stage.
Step 3: Scoop and Shape the Cookies
Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the dough. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a piece of parchment paper or directly into the air fryer basket. Gently flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork to create a crisscross pattern.
Step 4: Air Fry the Cookies
Carefully place the cookies into the preheated air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each one for expansion. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to bake in batches. Set the timer for 8-10 minutes, keeping a close eye on them as air fryers vary in temperature.
Step 5: Check for Doneness
After 8 minutes, open the air fryer and check the cookies. They should be lightly golden on the edges, and the center should feel set but still soft. If needed, bake for an additional 1-2 minutes.
Step 6: Let the Cookies Cool
Once done, carefully remove the cookies from the air fryer using tongs or a spatula and place them on a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect for snacks: Enjoy these cookies with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee.
- Ideal for gifting: Package a batch in decorative boxes or bags for a thoughtful homemade treat.
- Great for parties: Serve these cookies at gatherings or holiday events, and watch them disappear in minutes!
Tips for Success:
- Consistency in size: Make sure all cookie balls are similar in size to ensure even baking.
- Air fryer adjustment: Depending on your air fryer model, baking times may slightly vary, so keep an eye on them during the first batch.
- Check halfway: For even baking, consider shaking the basket or rotating the cookies halfway through cooking.
- Add-ins: Feel free to get creative with mix-ins—try adding chopped peanuts, coconut flakes, or mini M&Ms!
Conclusion:
Air Fryer Peanut Butter Cookies are a simple yet delicious dessert option that combines classic flavors with the ease of air frying. This quick recipe produces perfectly soft and chewy cookies with just a hint of crunch, making them ideal for satisfying sweet cravings any time of the day. Once you try these, you’ll find yourself reaching for your air fryer every time you want cookies!