Peanut butter and jelly cookies bring a nostalgic twist to a classic combination that many of us grew up loving. With buttery, soft cookie dough and a luscious layer of jelly, these treats satisfy both your sweet tooth and your cravings for comfort food. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, they create a delightful experience for kids and adults alike, making them a favorite for everyone.
Why We Love This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
These peanut butter and jelly cookies offer a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. The rich, creamy peanut butter in the dough complements the sweet, fruity jelly perfectly, making each bite a delicious experience. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also hold a special place in many hearts, reminding us of lunchboxes and happy moments from childhood. The soft, chewy interior contrasts beautifully with the slightly crispy edges, creating a delightful dessert that feels both satisfying and comforting. Furthermore, they are simple to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients you probably have in your pantry. Whether you bake them for a family gathering, a school event, or simply for yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and satisfied taste buds.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
- 1 cup peanut butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup jelly or jam of your choice
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix well until you achieve a creamy consistency.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between each ball.
- Using a fork, gently press down on each ball to create a crisscross pattern on top.
- Create a small indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon.
- Fill each indentation with approximately ½ teaspoon of jelly or jam.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
Serving peanut butter and jelly cookies can be as simple or as fancy as you like. For a casual setting, you can present them on a beautiful plate or in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper. This adds a homey touch that makes them feel even more inviting. Pair these cookies with a glass of cold milk for an even more nostalgic experience. If you want to elevate the presentation, consider dusting the cookies lightly with powdered sugar. For a party or gathering, you can create a dessert platter featuring these cookies alongside other sweet treats, such as brownies or bars. This variety can please different palates and enhance the overall display. Another fun idea is to offer a simple dessert bar where guests can choose their favorite flavors of jelly or jam to top their cookie, allowing everyone to customize their dessert to their liking.
Expert Tips for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
To ensure perfect peanut butter and jelly cookies, consider a few expert tips. First, use creamy peanut butter for smooth mixing, but if you prefer chunky for added texture, that works, too! Make sure to let your butter sit at room temperature before mixing for the best consistency. When it comes to the jelly, choose flavors that you and your guests love. Strawberry, grape, or raspberry are all popular choices, but feel free to experiment with different varieties. For an added twist, you could try making your jelly or using a flavored spread like Nutella with banana slices on top. Keep a close eye on the baking time; every oven is different, so start checking around 10 minutes. The cookies should be lightly golden; they will firm up as they cool. Lastly, don’t let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for too long or they may stick. Transfer them to a wire rack sooner for an easier release.
How to Store Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
To keep your peanut butter and jelly cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. If you plan to enjoy them within a week, simply place them at room temperature. To maintain their chewy texture, consider placing a slice of bread in the container alongside the cookies; this will help to keep them moist. If you want to keep the cookies for longer, refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. When freezing, wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag to prevent freezer burn. Allow them to thaw on the counter for a few hours, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm.
Variations of Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
Get creative with your peanut butter and jelly cookies by trying fun variations. Start by incorporating different types of nut butters like almond or cashew for a unique flavor. For an exciting twist, add chocolate chips into the dough for a rich, chocolaty addition. You can even mix in oats for a chewier texture that enhances the heartiness of the cookies. For a seasonal variation, try using pumpkin spice in the dough during the fall or adding crushed candy canes during the holiday season for a refreshing mint touch. Consider using different types of jelly or jam, such as blueberry, apricot, or even a spicy pepper jelly for an unexpected kick. Gluten-free options are also possible by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. With these variations, you can create different flavors and textures while keeping the beloved combination of peanut butter and jelly.
FAQ about Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
Peanut butter and jelly cookies are a delightful treat, but questions often arise about their preparation. One common question is, "Can I use natural peanut butter?" Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly due to its oil content. Another question often asked is, "How long do these cookies typically last?" When stored properly, they can last up to one week at room temperature and up to three months in the freezer. Some bakers wonder, "Can I make these cookies without flour?" Yes, you can try a flourless version by substituting the flour with oat flour or almond flour, providing a delicious alternative. Remember to adjust baking times if needed. Another frequent inquiry is, "What are the best jellies to use?" Popular choices include grape, strawberry, and raspberry, but feel free to experiment with your personal favorites! Lastly, many want to know, "Can I use cookie cutters for fun shapes?" Absolutely! Just make sure to create a well-defined well in the center for the jelly, and have fun with shapes that match your occasion!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
Ingredients
For the cookie dough
- 1 cup peanut butter Use creamy or chunky as per preference.
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the filling
- ½ cup jelly or jam of your choice Popular choices include grape, strawberry, and raspberry.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix well until creamy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Shaping and Baking
- Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with enough space between each ball.
- Using a fork, press down on each ball to create a crisscross pattern on top.
- Create a small indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or the back of a teaspoon.
- Fill each indentation with approximately ½ teaspoon of jelly or jam.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!