Peanut Butter Cookies

This is one recipe that it doesn't matter what the weather is like, I make when the kids are visiting. It gives them all a chance to "make" cookies. Even my youngest niece Gracie who is 3 helps out. It is also the first real recipe I learned as a kid.

The only difference is we do not do the fork thing. To make it so little ones can really get into helping we use a plastic cup dipped in sugar, then squish the balls of dough. With Gracie it is a game...we do 1, 2, 3, squish...she loves it! She is giggling the whole time and then when the cookies are cooled off, shows everyone what she made.

Peanut Butter Cookies

* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 3/4 cup butter, room temperature
* 3/4 cup peanut butter
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla



In a bowl, stir together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

Beat together the butter, peanut butter, and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Gradually beat in the flour mixture.

Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate until chilled, or about 2 to 4 hours.

Take tablespoonfuls of dough and roll into balls with hands. Place about 3 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Using a fork dipped in flour, lightly press cookies, flattening and forming a criss-cross pattern on each cookie with the tines.

Bake at 375° until golden brown, or about 10 to 12 minutes. Cool on baking sheets for a minute; transfer to rack to cool completely.

Makes about 4 dozen peanut butter cookies.