3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

Why You’ll Love 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies (Vegan, Gluten-Free)

If you’re looking for a simple dessert that doesn’t require a long list of ingredients or complicated steps, this recipe is for you. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create delicious cookies that taste rich and satisfying.

You’ll love how quick and easy these cookies are to make. There’s no need for special equipment or chilling time. The dough comes together in minutes, and the cookies bake in under 10 minutes.

They’re also naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them a great option for sharing with friends and family who have dietary restrictions. Plus, the combination of peanut butter and maple syrup creates a perfectly balanced sweetness with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup almond flour
½ cup peanut butter (runny)
⅓ cup maple syrup
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
pinch salt (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350℉ and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, peanut butter, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt (if using). Stir until a smooth, cohesive dough forms.

3. Scoop 1–2 tablespoon portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.

4. Use a fork to gently press each ball down, creating a crisscross pattern on top. If the dough is sticky, lightly dip your hands or fork in water.

5. Bake for 9–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will be soft when removed from the oven. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet so they can firm up properly.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 cookies.

Preparation time: 5 minutes
Baking time: 9–10 minutes
Total time: Approximately 15 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Chip: Fold in a handful of dairy-free chocolate chips for extra sweetness and texture.

Crunchy Peanut Butter: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth for added texture.

Almond Butter Swap: Replace peanut butter with almond butter for a slightly different nutty flavor.

Cinnamon Spice: Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth and depth.

Sea Salt Finish: Sprinkle a small pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-and-salty twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.

If you prefer them slightly warm, microwave a cookie for 5–8 seconds to soften.

FAQs

Can I use regular flour instead of almond flour?

Almond flour is key to keeping these cookies gluten-free and giving them a soft texture. Regular flour would change the consistency and may require additional adjustments.

What kind of peanut butter works best?

Runny, natural peanut butter works best because it blends smoothly with the other ingredients. If your peanut butter is very thick, the dough may be dry.

Are these cookies very sweet?

They have a mild, natural sweetness from the maple syrup. If you prefer sweeter cookies, you can add a tablespoon of coconut sugar.

Can I make these without maple syrup?

Maple syrup provides both sweetness and moisture. Substituting it with another liquid sweetener like agave may work, but the flavor will vary.

Why are my cookies crumbly?

If the cookies are crumbly, the dough may be too dry. Make sure your peanut butter is runny and well stirred before measuring.

Do I need to chill the dough?

No, chilling is not required. The dough is ready to bake as soon as it’s mixed.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all the ingredients to make 24 cookies. The baking time remains the same.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges should be lightly golden. They will still feel soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.

Can I add protein powder?

You can add a small amount, but it may dry out the dough. If you do, consider adding a splash of plant-based milk.

Are these cookies kid-friendly?

Yes, they’re soft, naturally sweetened, and made with simple ingredients, making them a great option for kids and adults alike.

Conclusion

These 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies prove that simple recipes can deliver big flavor. With minimal prep time and wholesome ingredients, they’re perfect for busy days, last-minute desserts, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and satisfying. Keep this easy recipe on hand for a quick treat you can feel good about making and sharing.