Get the oven preheating to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, stir together the softened butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter until combined.
Mix in the egg yolk and vanilla extract until well combined.
Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Start with 3 tablespoons of flour then add the additional 1 tablespoon, if needed, to get a thick cookie dough.
Pop the dough in the fridge for about 15 minutes while the oven finishes preheating.
Roll the dough into two balls and roll the balls in extra white granulated sugar (this is optional) and place on the lined baking sheet.
Bake for 11–14 minutes - until the edges are firm and set and the centers are just set.
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
