Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cookies: Guilt-Free Delight Awaits

What Do You Need To Make Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cookies?

Welcome to a world where indulgence meets wellness! Introducing Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cookies, the guilt-free treat that will elevate your snack game. This blog post guides you to a delightful escape while staying true to your health goals.

Imagine biting into soft, creamy peanut butter cookies. You can indulge guilt-free without sacrificing flavor. With just three ingredients, these delightful treats satisfy your sweet cravings while helping you reach your nutrition goals.

Our recipe reveals the secret to making these heavenly cookies, guaranteeing pure bliss with every bite. We’ll walk you through the process, sharing the essential ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions to make your baking experience a breeze.

Ready to take your snacking game to the next level? Try these amazing Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cookies for a guilt-free treat!

Freshly-baked sugar-free peanut butter cookies
Freshly-baked sugar-free peanut butter cookies

Table of Contents

Is Peanut Butter Allowed on Keto?

Peanuts and creamy and crunchy peanut butter in bowls
Peanuts and creamy and crunchy peanut butter in bowls

Peanuts, along with tree nuts like almonds and walnuts, are keto-friendly due to their low-carb and high-fat content. While peanut butter is generally acceptable on a keto diet, it’s crucial to consume it mindfully and choose the right type.

Peanut butter can be a healthy and delicious addition to the keto lifestyle because of its high fat and protein content. However, it’s important to choose natural peanut butter without added sugar or hydrogenated oils, as these can increase carb levels and hinder your keto progress.

To add peanut butter to your keto diet, be aware of the amount you consume as it is calorie-dense despite being high in healthy fats. Including peanut butter in a well-balanced low-carb diet can be both tasty and nutritious. 

Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

Home-baked peanut butter cookies on a plate
Home-baked peanut butter cookies on a plate

These delicious sugar-free peanut butter cookies provide a delightful, rich peanut butter flavor. They have a perfect balance of chewiness and crunchiness and are made with just three basic ingredients (plus a few optional additions).

Easily prepare and scoop these delightful cookies. They can be ready in less than 30 minutes, each cookie containing 2g of net carbs. Treat yourself to this naturally gluten-free keto dessert and relish its irresistible allure!

These peanut butter cookies are low-carb, keto, and gluten-free since they don’t contain flour or sugar. If you’re on a diet and trying to lose weight, it’s important to practice portion control when enjoying these cookies.

Ingredients

The simple, traditional recipe for sugar-free peanut butter cookies only needs peanut butter, eggs, and sweetener.

Peanut Butter

When choosing natural peanut butter, opt for a thick and creamy variety that doesn’t contain sugar. Avoid the kind with oil on the top that requires stirring, as it may result in flat cookies. You can decide whether you prefer a creamy or crunchy peanut butter flavor. 

You can also use almond butter, cashew butter, or another nut butter made from keto nuts. However, keep in mind that the texture may vary, especially if the one you choose is more runny.

Cashew, almond, and peanut butter with respective nuts
Cashew, almond, and peanut butter with respective nuts

Eggs

Use large eggs. Eggs add structure, flavor, and moisture to the cookies, helping to shape and hold them together. Adding more eggs will make the dough stickier. Consider trying flax eggs as an egg substitute.

Monk Fruit Sweetener

This brown sugar substitute is ideal for these cookies as it contributes to their soft and chewy texture. Plain allulose can also be used for a similar outcome. Unlike artificial sweeteners, they generally leave a less pronounced chemical aftertaste.

Avoid using erythritol or monk fruit brands that usually have erythritol, as they cause a cooling effect and make the cookies too hard. The same applies to highly concentrated substances like pure stevia powder, as they alter the cookie’s texture.

Optional:

The additional ingredients are optional, but they improve the outcome.

Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the sugar-free peanut butter cookies.

Salt: If you’re using salted peanut butter or salted peanuts, there’s no need for it. However, you can still add 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt to balance the sweetness.

Chopped Peanuts: You can add chopped peanuts for some crunch, or skip them if you prefer a smoother texture. Use either salted or unsalted peeled peanuts.

Peeled unsalted peanuts in a bowl
Peeled unsalted peanuts in a bowl

Here are the measurements of the ingredients you will need:

  • 1 1/4 cup natural peanut butter
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup monk fruit sweetener

Optional:

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup chopped peanuts

Instructions

Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (177°C). Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients in a mixing bowl. Put the peanut butter, egg, and sweetener. Add in the salt and vanilla if using. Mix everything until smooth.

Add the peanut pieces, if using, and mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to retain some crunch.

Use a medium cookie scoop to place dough balls on the prepared baking sheet. Firmly press the cookie dough into the scoop before releasing it onto the sheet.

Flattened peanut butter cookie dough on a baking sheet
Flattened peanut butter cookie dough on a baking sheet

Flatten the dough by using a fork in a criss-cross pattern. Dip the fork in a cup of cold water between cookies and wipe it with a paper towel to prevent sticking.

Bake for approximately 15 to 20 minutes until lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool completely before handling. They will become crisp as they cool.

Nutrition

This recipe makes about 27 2-inch peanut butter cookies. Each cookie (with no add-ins) contains the following:

  • Calories: 76 
  • Total Carbs: 3g
  • Net Carbs: 2.1g
  • Fiber: 0.9g
  • Sugar: 1.1g
  • Fat: 5.9g
  • Protein: 3.1g

Tips for Making Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter cookies with whole peanuts
Peanut butter cookies with whole peanuts

When using a food processor to mix the dough, be careful not to over-process the peanuts. After adding the peanuts, pulse gently instead of running the food processor continuously to preserve their crunchiness.

Press the dough into the scoop. This ensures cleaner release onto the pan, preventing the cookies from falling apart.

Flatten the cookies with a fork before baking. Since these sugar-free peanut butter cookies won’t spread on their own, flattening them ensures even baking. To get a clean criss-cross pattern, you can wipe the fork with a wet paper towel between each cookie.

The crisscross markings not only ensure even baking but also help the cookies maintain their shape. Peanut butter tends to cause spreading, and the crisscrosses help prevent that.

Allow the cookies to cool completely before handling them to prevent them from falling apart. It’s important to let the cookies cool for at least 30 minutes to achieve a firm texture that holds together well. 

Variations of Keto Peanut Butter Cookies

Peanut butter chocolate chip cookies on a wooden tray
Peanut butter chocolate chip cookies on a wooden tray

You can enhance the flavor by adding chocolate chips! Peanut butter and chocolate are a perfect combination. Simply stir in a handful or two of sugar-free chocolate chips once the dough is mixed, or sprinkle them on top for a melted chocolaty topping.

You can also melt the chocolate and dip the cookies like these keto peanut butter balls.

Chocolate-dipped sugar-free peanut butter cookies
Chocolate-dipped sugar-free peanut butter cookies

These flourless peanut butter cookies have a soft and chewy center. But if you prefer a slightly crispier texture, here are a few ideas to try.

Bake your cookies for a few more minutes, making sure to watch them closely to avoid burning.

To bake crunchier cookies, increase the temperature slightly from the given instructions. Remember to monitor them closely while they are baking. 

Flatten the cookies by fully pressing them onto the baking sheet before baking. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a longer duration.

This recipe allows you to substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter, both of which are keto-friendly. 

If you have a nut allergy, you can use sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter instead.

What to Serve With Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

Baked peanut butter chocolate chip cookies with a bottle of fresh milk
Baked peanut butter chocolate chip cookies with a bottle of fresh milk

Enjoy these sugar-free peanut butter cookies with a glass of milk, iced coffee, or sugar-free lemonade on the side.

Serve them with a side of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream.

Coat or dunk your cookies in sugar-free ganache or sugar-free caramel sauce.

Make a delicious cookie sandwich by combining two cookies with keto frosting in the center. 

Take a cookie, crush it, and sprinkle it on top of a scoop of sugar-free keto ice cream.

To get the most out of your sugar-free peanut butter cookies, try different ways to serve them. Pair these tasty treats with low-carb snacks and desserts for a delicious combination. 

How to Store Sugar-Free Peanut Butter Cookies

You can store these sugar-free peanut butter cookies at room temperature for 3-5 days. Alternatively, they can be refrigerated for up to a week.

To freeze, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or ziplock bag. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

More Keto-Friendly Recipes

Peanut butter cookies on a wooden plate
Peanut butter cookies on a wooden plate

If you enjoy these delectable sugar-free peanut butter cookies, you’ll surely appreciate a variety of other delectable sugar-free keto-friendly snacks and desserts. Here are a few:

Keto Peanut Butter Cups

Keto Cookie Dough

Keto Oreos

Keto Pound Cake 

Keto Pretzels

Keto Pumpkin Pie

Sugar-Free Banana Pudding

Keto No-bake Cheesecake    

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are My Peanut Butter Cookies Dry and Crumbly?

If your peanut butter cookies are dry and crumbly without using flour, a few factors might be causing this texture. Here are some possible reasons and solutions to consider:

The type and consistency of peanut butter you choose can affect the texture of your cookies. Natural peanut butter, which separates and has a thinner consistency, might result in drier cookies.

The quantity of eggs in your recipe impacts the moisture content. If you use too few eggs, the cookies may become dry. Make sure to use the right number and size of eggs as stated in the recipe.

As our recipe uses alternative sweeteners or sugar substitutes, the type and amount you use can impact the texture. Try adjusting the sweetener quantity or using a different type to achieve a better moisture balance.

Overmixing the cookie dough can also result in a crumbly texture. Mix the ingredients just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.

If you have added ingredients such as nuts or dried fruits, they can absorb moisture from the cookies, resulting in a drier texture. You might want to adjust the amount or try using different add-ins.

To avoid dry cookies, make sure to follow the recommended baking time and temperature in your recipe. Keep a close eye on the cookies to prevent overbaking. Remember, baking for too long or at too high a temperature can result in dry cookies.

Freshly-baked peanut butter cookies
Freshly-baked peanut butter cookies

Why Do Peanut Butter Cookies Spread?

Peanut butter cookies, along with other types of cookies, spread while baking due to various factors. Knowing these factors can help you manage the spread and achieve the desired cookie texture.

Peanut butter contains fat, which affects how cookies spread. Choosing peanut butter with higher fat content results in a richer flavor and more controlled spread. Conversely, if you prefer less spread, opt for peanut butter with lower fat content.

The amount of sugar in the recipe affects how much the cookie spreads. Adding more sugar or sweetener makes the cookie thinner and more spread out. Adjust the amount of sweetener based on your preference for a softer or crisper texture.

Are Sugar-Free Cookies Good for Diabetics? 

Sugar-free cookies can be a reasonable choice for people with diabetes when eaten in moderation. These cookies are sweetened with sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit, which do not cause a spike in blood sugar levels. 

However, individuals with diabetes need to be mindful that while these sugar substitutes may have less impact on blood sugar compared to regular sugar, they should still be consumed with caution. Some people may experience digestive discomfort with certain sugar alcohols used in sugar-free products, so it’s advisable to gradually introduce them into the diet.

Considering the overall nutritional composition of sugar-free cookies is important. While they may lack traditional sugars, these cookies can still contain refined flour and saturated fats, which can impact blood sugar and health. 

Consulting a healthcare professional or registered dietitian is advisable to ensure sugar-free cookies align with specific health needs and goals.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, our exploration of guilt-free indulgence leads us to the sweet satisfaction of healthier treats. Our sugar-free peanut butter cookies are delectable delights that are free from traditional sugars and flour. They showcase the art of balancing taste and well-being in the kitchen.

When diving into your baking adventure, keep in mind that attention to detail is key. From selecting the right peanut butter to accurately measuring each ingredient, perfecting these cookies is a culinary journey that lets you enjoy every guilt-free moment.

In this flavorful experience, we’ve not only shared a recipe but an invitation to redefine your snacking habits. These cookies go beyond being a tasty treat. They combine mindful choices and indulgent pleasures, showing that healthy decisions can be a delicious part of your lifestyle.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or home cook, let the delicious scent of freshly baked, sugar-free goodness fill your kitchen. Our sugar-free peanut butter cookies celebrate the pleasure of mindful indulgence and the joy of baking. Here’s to guilt-free treats and the endless possibilities of wholesome desserts!