Classic Peanut Butter Cookies: Crispy, Chewy, and Irresistibly Delicious

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
Prepare the Dough:

In a medium-sized bowl, mix the peanut butter and sugar together until smooth and creamy.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Stir in the baking soda and salt (if using), mixing well.
Shape the Cookies:

Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Use a fork to gently press down each cookie ball, creating a crisscross pattern on top. Pressing the dough will also help them flatten out while baking.
Bake the Cookies:

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. The centers should still be soft.
Once done, remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Serve and Enjoy:

Enjoy the warm, freshly baked peanut butter cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage.
Serving and Storage Tips: