Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe are a delightful twist on the classic sandwich. These soft and chewy cookies feature a crunchy sugar coating and a sweet strawberry jam center. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are simple to make and offer a nostalgic flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy them at parties, get-togethers, or as a special treat for yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly creates a deliciously addictive taste.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies as a snack, dessert, or even pack them in lunchboxes!
• Customizable: Feel free to use different types of jelly or nut butters for unique flavors.
• Fun for All Ages: Kids will love helping to create these fun thumbprint cookies!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer with paddle attachment
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer with paddle attachment: Makes creaming butter and sugars easy and efficient.
• Cookie scoop: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking your delicious cookies.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

• 1½ cups (180 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• ½ cup (100 g) sugar
• ½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
• 1 cup (156 g) creamy peanut butter
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons (10 ml) vanilla extract

For Rolling (Optional)

• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar

For the Filling

• ½ – 1 cup (144 – 289 g) strawberry jelly or seedless jam

For Topping (Optional)

• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter, melted
• ¼ cup peanuts, roughly chopped

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the unsalted butter with the light brown sugar and granulated sugar until smooth—about 2–3 minutes on medium speed. Then add in the creamy peanut butter on medium speed for 1 minute until well mixed. Next, mix in the egg and vanilla extract on low speed until smooth.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the cookie dough in plastic wrap and transfer it to the fridge to chill for 30–60 minutes while preheating your oven. This chilling step helps reduce spreading during baking.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. If desired, pour additional granulated sugar into a small bowl for rolling.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons), scoop out balls of dough. Roll each ball in sugar before placing them about 3 inches apart on the lined baking sheet. Create an indentation in each cookie using your thumb or a teaspoon measuring spoon.

Step 7: Fill with Jelly

Fill each indentation with approximately one teaspoon of jelly or jam.

Step 8: Bake

Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 14-15 minutes or until edges are set and cracks form on top. After removing from the oven, gently reshape any misshapen cookies using a biscuit cutter or glass. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for about 10 minutes.

Step 9: Add Final Touches

If desired, spoon an extra teaspoon of jelly into each warm cookie’s center. Drizzle melted peanut butter over top and sprinkle with chopped peanuts before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Now enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies!

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Peanut butter and jelly cookies are delightful on their own, but there are many ways to elevate your serving experience. Here are some fun and creative serving suggestions to enjoy these delicious treats.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, milk complements the sweetness of the cookies while balancing the rich peanut butter flavor.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for warm days.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Add sliced bananas or strawberries on top for a fresh twist. The fruit enhances the flavors and adds a nutritious element.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies before serving. This adds a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will appreciate.

Served Warm

• Enjoy the cookies warm from the oven for a gooey, melty treat. You can reheat them slightly in the microwave if needed.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Arrange them on a platter with other sweet treats like brownies or cheesecake bites for an eye-catching dessert spread at gatherings.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

To make sure your peanut butter and jelly cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensures better mixing and helps create a uniform dough for consistent baking.

• Do not skip chilling: Chilling the dough helps reduce spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be set at the edges but soft in the center when done.

• Experiment with jellies: Try different flavors of jelly or jam to find your favorite combination. Raspberry or grape can add unique tastes!

• Adjust sugar coating: If you prefer less sweetness, you can skip rolling them in sugar or reduce the amount used.

• Store properly: Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness for several days.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with peanut butter and jelly cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy side that complements the texture of the cookies.

3. Cheese Platter
   Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creaminess balances the sweetness of the cookies nicely.

4. Nut Mix
   A simple mix of almonds, cashews, and walnuts offers crunch and protein that pairs well with sweet treats.

5. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
   These sweet bites add elegance to any dessert table while keeping it fun and indulgent.

6. Coffee or Tea
   A warm beverage enhances flavors; choose coffee for richness or tea for a lighter pairing that refreshes after sweets.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making peanut butter and jelly cookies can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will yield better results. Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Chilling Step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape.
• Incorrect Measuring: Using too much flour or sugar can ruin your cookie texture. Always measure ingredients accurately using proper measuring cups and spoons.
• Overbaking Cookies: Baking them for too long can make the cookies hard instead of soft and chewy. Keep an eye on them and remove them when edges are set but centers are still soft.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary, leading to inconsistent baking results. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature.
• Not Using Parchment Paper: Baking directly on a sheet can cause sticking and uneven browning. Always line your baking sheet with parchment paper for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.

Freezing Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
• Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container; they will keep for up to three months.

Reheating Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Bake cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for 10-15 seconds until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping once, until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious recipe:

Can I use crunchy peanut butter in this Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe?

You can certainly use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy! It will add extra texture to your cookies.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free peanut butter and jelly cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What type of jelly should I use?

While strawberry jelly is traditional, feel free to experiment with other flavors such as raspberry or grape jam!

Can I make these peanut butter and jelly cookies vegan?

Yes! Substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture, and use vegan butter or coconut oil instead.

How should I store leftover cookies?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

These peanut butter and jelly cookies are a delightful twist on the classic sandwich! They’re soft, chewy, and customizable with different jams or toppings. Whether you enjoy them as a dessert or snack, they’re sure to please everyone. Try adding chocolate chips or using almond butter for a unique flavor!