National Peanut Butter Cookie Day

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National Peanut Butter Cookie Day
United States
National Peanut Butter Cookie Day

When It Occurs

Every June 12th

Timeline

Days Passed (518)

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Gather all cookie enthusiasts and peanut butter aficionados to rejoice in National Peanut Butter Cookie Day on June 12! The essential components for these delightful treats include peanut butter, sugar, and eggs—those are the basics. Peanut butter cookies boast an effortless recipe, and for those who adore peanut butter, they consistently satisfy the craving. Keep reading for additional ways to honor this beloved and widely adored cookie!

History of Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter cookies have been around since the early 20th century, shortly after the invention of peanut butter itself. Peanut butter was first introduced to the U.S. market in the late 1800s, and it wasn’t long before bakers began experimenting with it in recipes. By the 1910s and 1920s, peanut butter cookies started appearing in cookbooks.

The first documented recipe for peanut butter cookies was published in the 1930s by none other than George Washington Carver, a scientist and agriculturalist who promoted the use of peanuts in various products. He included peanut butter cookies in his 1916 research bulletin, which featured numerous peanut-based recipes as a way to encourage the consumption of peanuts.

In the 1930s, the signature crisscross fork pattern on the top of peanut butter cookies became popular. This practice likely started as a way to flatten the cookies before baking, ensuring even cooking. It also became a decorative feature that helped distinguish peanut butter cookies from other types.

The Significance of National Peanut Butter Cookie Day

National Peanut Butter Cookie Day celebrates this iconic cookie, which has become a staple in American homes. Peanut butter cookies are enjoyed by people of all ages and are commonly made for holidays, bake sales, and everyday snacking. The day recognizes the comfort and nostalgia associated with peanut butter cookies, while also giving people a chance to experiment with different variations of the recipe.

How to Celebrate National Peanut Butter Cookie Day

  1. Bake Peanut Butter Cookies: One of the best ways to celebrate is by making a batch of peanut butter cookies from scratch. You can stick to a classic recipe or experiment with variations, such as adding chocolate chips, oats, or even a drizzle of chocolate on top.

  2. Try Different Peanut Butters: If you’re a fan of peanut butter, this is a great day to experiment with different types of peanut butter in your cookies. You can use creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture or crunchy peanut butter for added texture. There are also many natural and organic peanut butter options that you can try for a healthier version.

  3. Share with Friends and Family: Peanut butter cookies are a treat meant to be shared. On National Peanut Butter Cookie Day, bake a batch and give some to neighbors, friends, or coworkers. It's a sweet way to celebrate the day and spread the joy of homemade cookies.

  4. Get Creative with Recipes: While the traditional peanut butter cookie recipe is always a hit, you can also explore creative variations. Some ideas include peanut butter and jelly cookies, peanut butter sandwich cookies with a chocolate or cream filling, or even gluten-free peanut butter cookies made with almond flour.

  5. Peanut Butter Cookie Competitions: For those who love baking, hosting or participating in a peanut butter cookie baking competition can be a fun way to celebrate. Competitors can bake different styles of cookies, and a panel of judges can choose the best one based on taste, texture, and presentation.

  6. Share on Social Media: Social media is a great way to share your peanut butter cookie creations with the world. Use hashtags like #NationalPeanutButterCookieDay or #PeanutButterCookies to showcase your cookies, recipes, or even favorite memories related to peanut butter cookies.

Classic Peanut Butter Cookie Recipe

Here’s a simple, traditional recipe to make your own peanut butter cookies at home:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 egg
  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
  6. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
  7. Use a fork to gently press down on each ball of dough, making a crisscross pattern on top.
  8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
  9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Fun Facts About Peanut Butter Cookies

  • Crisscross Pattern: The crisscross fork pattern on top of peanut butter cookies not only adds a decorative touch but also helps the cookies bake more evenly.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Peanut butter cookies can easily be made gluten-free by using gluten-free flour or omitting the flour entirely. Many flourless peanut butter cookie recipes use just peanut butter, sugar, and eggs.
  • Peanut Allergy Alternatives: For those with peanut allergies, almond butter or sunflower seed butter can be substituted to make a similar nut or seed butter cookie.

Peanut Butter Cookies and Nutrition

While peanut butter cookies are delicious, they are also rich in fats and sugars. However, peanut butter itself offers some health benefits, as it is a good source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins like vitamin E and magnesium. To make peanut butter cookies healthier, you can opt for natural peanut butter with no added sugar and use whole wheat flour or other alternative flours.

Conclusion

National Peanut Butter Cookie Day on June 12th is a perfect opportunity to celebrate this timeless, comforting treat. Whether you enjoy them soft or crunchy, with chocolate chips or plain, peanut butter cookies are a delightful snack that brings joy to both bakers and cookie lovers alike.