Canadian Living Peanut Butter Cookies

This recipe is from the 1987 version of the Canadian Living Cookbook. It's the best peanut butter cookie recipe, imo, I always use this one. The original does not call for the M&Ms, but it's my favourite thing to add! If you are going to triple or more the recipe, add an extra egg, it helps keep them whole once baked. The original also calls for 1.5 cups all purpose flour, but I use half and half, and you cannot tell the difference! http://www.canadianliving.com/food/

• Ready In: 23 mins
• Yields: 40 cookies

Ingredients

• 1⁄2 cup butter, softened
• 1  cup brown sugar, packed
• 3⁄4 cup crunchy peanut butter
• 1  egg
• 1  teaspoon vanilla
• 3⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3⁄4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1⁄4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1  pinch salt
• 1⁄4 cup peanuts, halved (optional)
• 1⁄4 cup  M&M' (optional)

Directions

1. In large bowl, cream together butter and sugar. Add peanut butter, creaming thoroughly. Beat in egg and vanilla. In separate bowl, combine flours, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Blend into creamed mixture. Fold in M&Ms if using. Shape into small balls (1-1/4 inch / 3 cm in diameter) and place on cookie sheets (greased or lined with parchment paper). Flatten slightly with floured fork.
2. If desired, top each cookie with a peanut half.
3. Bake in 350° F (180° C) oven for 8 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Cool on baking sheets for a few minutes, then remove to racks to cool completely.
5. Makes about 40 cookies.