Classic peanut butter cookies with their signature fork-press pattern deliver rich, nutty flavor in every bite. This family-favorite recipe produces perfectly chewy, melt-in-your-mouth treats.
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper for even heat distribution.
In a large bowl, cream unsalted butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is smooth, about 2 minutes using medium speed.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
Add all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt; stir gently until a soft dough forms that holds together without sticking.
Roll dough into tablespoon-sized balls, place onto prepared baking sheets, and flatten each with a fork in a crisscross pattern, ensuring a uniform thickness for even baking.
Bake for 10–12 minutes, watching for lightly golden edges but a soft center; cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to finish cooling and set the chewy texture.