Classic Peanut Butter Cookies

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with an electric mixer or by hand with a sturdy spoon.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and continue to mix until well combined.
4. Incorporate Peanut Butter: Blend in the creamy peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradual Mixing: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense cookies.
7. Shape Cookies: Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between each for spreading.
8. Create Crosshatch Pattern: Using a fork, gently press down on each cookie, creating a crosshatch pattern. You can dip the fork in flour periodically to prevent sticking.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking if you prefer softer cookies.
10. Cooling: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
11. Enjoy: Once cooled, enjoy these classic peanut butter cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage.

Note: Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can also be frozen for longer storage. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or other mix-ins according to your preference.