Peanut Butter Cookies

In the bowl of your electric mixer (or with a hand mixer), cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy (about 2 - 3 minutes). Beat in the peanut butter. Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat to combine. In a separate bowl whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Add to the peanut butter mixture and beat until incorporated. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C) and place rack in center of oven. Bake the cookies for about 12 to 14 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly browned around the edges. Makes about 2 dozen cookies. 3/4 cup (170 grams) unsalted butter, room temperature 1/2 cup (105 grams) light brown sugar 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated white sugar 3/4 cup (185 grams) peanut butter (smooth or crunchy) 1 large egg 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 2 cups (280 grams) all purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup chopped peanuts or 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)