
When I first discovered these three ingredient vegan peanut butter cookies they completely changed my baking game. The simplicity is beautiful just natural peanut butter almond flour and maple syrup coming together to create something incredibly delicious. My kitchen fills with the most amazing nutty aroma while they bake and everyone's always shocked when I tell them how easy they are to make.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
These cookies have become my go to when I need something quick and satisfying. The way they just melt in your mouth with that perfect balance of peanutty richness and natural sweetness is pure magic. I love that I can whip up a batch in one bowl when unexpected guests drop by or when those late night cookie cravings hit.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Natural Peanut Butter: 2 cups, stirred smooth
- Maple Syrup: 2/3 cup, pure
- Almond Flour: 2 cups, finely ground
- Optional Add-ins: Vanilla extract, vegan chocolate chips, crushed peanuts
- Optional Toppings: Flaky sea salt, coconut sugar, melted dark chocolate
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Set oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Ingredients:
- Stir peanut butter and maple syrup in a large bowl until combined. Gradually fold in almond flour until dough forms.
- Shape Cookies:
- Scoop dough (about 2 tbsp per cookie), roll into balls, and place on baking sheets. Flatten with a fork to make criss-cross patterns.

Baking and Cooling
The trick is watching these cookies carefully as they bake since they can go from perfect to too dark quickly. I love that moment when they're just starting to turn golden at the edges that's when you know they'll have that ideal chewy texture once cooled. Patience is key during cooling they'll be super soft at first but firm up beautifully.
Decoration Options
I love getting creative with the toppings. That sprinkle of flaky sea salt on chocolate dipped cookies creates such an amazing sweet-salty combo. Sometimes I'll crush up extra peanuts for the top or make a quick drizzle with melted chocolate it makes them look so fancy with barely any extra effort.
Troubleshooting Tips
Over the years I've learned that the consistency of your peanut butter can really affect these cookies. If the dough feels too sticky I just add almond flour a little at a time until it feels right. And if they're spreading too much in the oven a quick chill in the fridge works wonders.
Storage Tips
These cookies keep beautifully in an airtight container though they rarely last long in my house. I often make a double batch and freeze half for cookie emergencies. It's amazing having cookie dough balls ready to pop in the oven whenever the craving hits.
Customization Ideas
The possibilities for making these cookies your own are endless. Sometimes I'll add a dash of cinnamon or fold in some dried cranberries. Using crunchy peanut butter adds such nice texture and that drizzle of vegan caramel sauce takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different nut butter?
Yes, you can use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter. Make sure to use natural nut butter without added oils or sugar for best results.
- → Why are my cookies too soft?
The cookies will be very soft when first out of the oven. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet - they'll firm up significantly as they cool.
- → Can I use honey instead of maple syrup?
While honey will work as a binder, the cookies would no longer be vegan. Agave nectar is another vegan alternative that works well.
- → Why measure in grams?
Weight measurements are more precise than volume, especially for ingredients like almond flour that can be easily compressed. This ensures consistent results.
- → Why use damp hands?
The dough can be sticky, so slightly damp hands help prevent it from sticking while rolling into balls. Just be careful not to add too much moisture.