Peanut butter cookies evoke a sense of nostalgia for many, often being one of the first desserts attempted in childhood. Their simplicity, traditionally requiring just sugar, peanut butter, and an egg, makes them a comforting classic. Fortunately, adapting this recipe for a low-carb, keto-friendly diet is surprisingly easy, maintaining the original recipe's simplicity.
The Magic of Erythritol
The key to transforming traditional peanut butter cookies into a keto-friendly delight lies in replacing sugar with erythritol. Brands like Swerve or Sukrin are excellent choices, readily available in many grocery stores and suitable for those mindful of their budget. Swerve's finely ground erythritol is particularly advantageous, as it blends seamlessly into the cookie batter, overcoming the common issue of erythritol's difficulty in dissolving compared to regular sugar.
Enhancing Sweetness and Presentation
After preparing the keto peanut butter cookie dough, consider rolling the dough balls in extra granulated erythritol before baking. This not only adds a touch of sweetness but also provides a classic, visually appealing finish reminiscent of traditional peanut butter cookies.
Adjusting Sweetness Levels
Many classic peanut butter cookie recipes call for a cup of sugar for about 12-15 cookies. However, when adapting to a keto lifestyle, it's important to adjust the sweetness accordingly. Experimenting with keto desserts often reveals that less sweetener is needed than initially expected. Even though erythritol is about 70% as sweet as sugar, using a smaller amount can still yield perfectly sweet and satisfying low-carb peanut butter cookies. A good starting point is half a cup of erythritol, adjusting to taste.
A Versatile Base Recipe
This keto peanut butter cookie recipe serves as a versatile base for various flavor combinations. For instance, adding sugar-free chocolate chips or dark chocolate to the dough creates delightful peanut butter chocolate chip cookies.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Essential Ingredients for Keto Peanut Butter Cookies
These keto peanut butter cookies require just a few simple ingredients:
- Peanut Butter: Opt for smooth, drippy peanut butter without added sugar or oils. The ingredient list should ideally only include ground peanuts and possibly sea salt.
- Keto Sweetener: Allulose, monk fruit sweetener, or any granulated sugar substitute works well. Erythritol can be used, but some find it grainy or detect an aftertaste.
- Egg: To bind the ingredients.
- Almond Flour: This gluten-free flour provides structure to the cookies.
- Baking Soda: For leavening and a slightly chewy texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor profile.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
Optional Ingredients:
- Sugar-free chocolate chips: For peanut butter chocolate chip cookies.
- Sea salt flakes: To sprinkle on top for a salty-sweet contrast.
- Xanthan Gum: (Optional) Helps bind the ingredients, especially when using almond flour.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter and monk fruit sweetener using an electric mixer. Mix well until smooth and well-combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the wet ingredients are fully incorporated. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add dry ingredients: Add the almond flour, baking soda, and salt (and xanthan gum, if using) to the bowl. Mix in the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles cookie dough. If the dough seems too crumbly, add a tablespoon of almond milk to moisten it. The dough should be thick and somewhat sticky.
- Shape the cookies: Use a cookie scoop to scoop out dough balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Create the criss-cross pattern: Dip the back of a fork in water and press it into the top of each cookie to create a criss-cross pattern.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
- Cool: Remove the baking tray from the oven and let the cookies cool for 5 minutes on the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies: Mix a ½ cup sugar-free chocolate chips or dark chocolate into the dough.
- Peanut Butter Cookie Sandwiches: Create a creamy peanut butter filling by mixing together ½ cup chilled coconut cream, 2-3 tablespoons peanut butter, 2-3 tablespoons powdered monk fruit sweetener, and a splash of vanilla extract. Chill the filling and spread it between two cooled cookies.
- Nut Butter Substitution: If you prefer or need to avoid peanut butter, almond butter or other nut butters can be used. Ensure it's a thick, low-carb variety.
Frosting Option: Peanut Butter Cream Filling
For those who enjoy a frosted cookie, a peanut butter cream filling adds a delightful touch. To make the filling, mix together:
- ½ cup coconut cream (chilled)
- 2-3 tablespoons peanut butter
- 2-3 tablespoons powdered monk fruit sweetener
- A splash of vanilla extract
Refrigerate the frosting until ready to use, ensuring the cookies are completely cooled before spreading.
Storage Instructions
- To store: Place peanut butter cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will keep fresh for up to 2 weeks.
- To freeze: Place cookies in a ziplock bag and store in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Nutritional Information
These keto peanut butter cookies are not only delicious but also fit well into a low-carb lifestyle. Each cookie contains approximately 3 grams of net carbs.
Peanut Butter on Keto: A Closer Look
Peanut butter can be a part of a keto diet due to its low carb content. A two-tablespoon serving of natural and sugar-free peanut butter contains just 3 grams of net carbs. However, it's crucial to choose brands without added sugar or flavorings.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Tips for Success
- Use All-Natural Peanut Butter: Make sure you're using all-natural peanut butter. It should have no added sugar or other oils- just ground peanuts and possibly sea salt.
- Don't Overbake: These cookies are best when they are slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing or frosting. This will prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Dipping the fork in water will be the easiest way to create the criss-cross pattern in the cookies.
Other Keto-Friendly Peanut Butter Desserts
If you love peanut butter desserts, there are other keto-friendly options to explore, such as keto peanut butter chocolate ice cream.
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto