Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.

Add the egg and optional vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually incorporate into the wet mixture.

Scoop the dough and roll into balls, placing them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are golden brown and centers look slightly underbaked.

Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.