In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of natural peanut butter with 1/2 cup of powdered sugar. If you haven’t tried natural peanut butter, it’s worth it! This variety offers a rich, authentic flavor and tends to be creamier. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to blend the ingredients until they are well incorporated. You want the mixture to be entirely uniform, so give it a good mix; you don’t want any sugar clumps peeking through!

To this creamy mixture, add in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This little addition brings out the natural sweetness of the peanut butter and rounds out the flavors beautifully. Give it another quick mix, and don't forget to sprinkle in that pinch of sea salt. It may seem minor, but trust me—it makes a world of difference!

Now, it’s time to get the dough to firm up. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and pop it into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the cookies retain their shape during baking, making them less likely to spread out.

While you’re waiting for that dough to chill, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup (who likes washing dishes, anyway?).

Once the dough is nicely chilled, scoop out approximately 1-tablespoon-sized portions and roll them into balls using your hands. Space them evenly on the baking sheet; it's okay if they’re a little close together, but give them room to spread.

Using the bottom of a spatula or a glass, gently press down on each cookie ball to flatten them. This is your chance to make them look cute! Finally, grab a fork and make a criss-cross pattern on top of each cookie. This not only adds a classic touch but helps the cookies cook evenly.

Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 9-11 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges start to turn a light golden brown and the tops appear dry. Keep an eye on them—the time can vary depending on your oven.