If you’re following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle but still crave something sweet, Keto Peanut Butter Cookies are a perfect dessert or snack. These cookies are low in carbohydrates, sugar-free, gluten-free, and easy to make — and you only need a few basic ingredients. The recipe from CookingLSL.com keeps things simple, focusing on peanut butter, a sugar-free sweetener, and an egg for structure.
One of the biggest benefits of keto desserts is that they satisfy your sweet tooth without causing a big spike in blood sugar, thanks to sugar alternatives like erythritol or monk fruit sweeteners that have little to no impact on carbohydrate totals. Other keto versions out there also stick to similar ingredients, proving that great flavor doesn’t require a long list of stuff you don’t already have in your pantry.
Why These Cookies Work on Keto
Traditional peanut butter cookies are usually made with flour and sugar — two things that don’t fit into a ketogenic diet. Keto peanut butter cookies remove both by using no flour at all and a low-carb sweetener instead of sugar. The natural fats from peanut butter help make the cookies moist and satisfying, while the egg helps hold the dough together so they bake properly.
Because there’s no flour, these cookies won’t get crispy like classic cookies. Instead, they turn out soft on the inside and slightly chewy on the outside — a texture many people love.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this classic keto peanut butter cookie recipe:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter — choose unsweetened, natural, creamy or crunchy peanut butter.
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup powdered low-carb sweetener — powdered sweetener gives a smoother texture.
- 1 egg — this helps bind the dough and ensures the cookies bake evenly.
Optional flavor boosters:
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract — for extra sweetness and aroma.
- A pinch of salt — if your peanut butter is unsalted.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake your keto cookies:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (about 175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the cookies don’t stick as they bake.
2. Mix the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sweetener, and egg. Stir everything together with a spatula until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. If you’re using vanilla extract, add it here for extra flavor.
3. Shape the Cookies
Scoop out small portions of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons each) and roll them into balls. Place the balls evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Create the Pattern
Using the back of a fork, press down on each dough ball to flatten them slightly and make a classic criss-cross pattern on top. This helps the cookies bake evenly and gives them a traditional peanut butter cookie look.
5. Bake
Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 12–15 minutes, until the tops are set and lightly golden. Because there’s no flour, they won’t brown deeply but should be firm and slightly golden.
6. Cool Before Eating
Allow the cookies to cool for about 10 minutes on the baking sheet before moving them to a rack or plate. Cooling helps them firm up so they hold their shape better.
Texture & Serving Suggestions
These cookies are best described as soft and slightly chewy. They don’t crisp up like traditional flour cookies, but that’s part of their charm — the peanut butter gives them a rich, tender center that’s hard to resist.
Enjoy them as a snack with coffee or tea, pack a few in your lunchbox, or serve them as a quick dessert after dinner. They’re also great with a glass of unsweetened nut milk or tea on a cozy afternoon.
Tips & Variations
Here are a few ideas if you want to tweak this basic recipe:
- Extra sweetness: Some people like to roll the dough balls in a little extra sweetener before baking for a sparkly outside.
- Flavor add-ins: A pinch of cinnamon or a few sugar-free chocolate chips can enhance the flavor.
- Make more cookies: If you need a bigger batch, simply double or triple the ingredients — the method stays the same.
Conclusion
Keto Peanut Butter Cookies are a quick, satisfying low-carb dessert that fit perfectly into a ketogenic eating plan. With just a few ingredients and about 20 minutes, you can have a batch of cookies that are sweet, rich in flavor, and guilt-free compared with the traditional sugar-filled versions. Whether you’re new to keto baking or a seasoned pro, this simple recipe is a dessert worth trying again and again.