Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies: A Fun Twist on a Classic
Introduction: A Nostalgic Treat with a Modern Twist
There’s something magical about peanut butter and jelly. Whether it brings back childhood memories of packed lunches or lazy Sunday afternoons, this iconic combination is the ultimate comfort food. Now, imagine transforming that classic sandwich into a delicious, bite-sized dessert. Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies take the best of PB&J and turn it into a soft, chewy, and slightly gooey treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make these cookies from scratch with simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
- Sweet and salty perfection – The rich peanut butter pairs beautifully with the fruity jam.
- Soft and chewy texture – A perfect melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- Easy to make – Requires only a few pantry staples.
- Great for all ages – Kids and adults alike will love these cookies.
- Versatile flavors – Swap the jam for different flavors or add your own twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Below is a list of all the ingredients you’ll need to make these peanut butter and jelly cookies.
Table: Ingredients for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups | Sifted for a lighter texture |
| Peanut Butter | 1 cup | Creamy or crunchy |
| Unsalted Butter | 1/2 cup | Softened |
| Granulated Sugar | 1/2 cup | Adds sweetness |
| Brown Sugar | 1/2 cup | For a chewy texture |
| Egg | 1 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Baking Soda | 1 tsp | Helps cookies rise |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | Balances sweetness |
| Jelly or Jam | 1/2 cup | Grape, strawberry, or raspberry |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepping the Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Ensure the butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing.
Step 2 – Mixing the Dough
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until well combined.
Step 3 – Shaping the Cookies
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the baking sheet.
- Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to create an indentation in each cookie.
Step 4 – Adding the Jelly
- Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of jelly into each indentation.
- Avoid overfilling to prevent spillage while baking.
Step 5 – Baking the Cookies
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
- Use high-quality peanut butter for the best flavor.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you want thicker cookies.
- Experiment with different jams (strawberry, raspberry, apricot, or even fig!).
- For added crunch, sprinkle chopped peanuts on top before baking.
- For a healthier twist, use natural peanut butter and reduce the sugar.
Fun Variations to Try
Crunchy Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
- Swap creamy peanut butter for crunchy to add more texture.
Peanut Butter and Nutella Cookies
- Replace jelly with Nutella for a chocolatey variation.
Oatmeal Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
- Add 1/2 cup of oats to the dough for a heartier version.
Storing & Freezing Your Cookies
- Storage: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the cookie dough balls for up to 3 months, then bake when ready.
- Reheating: Microwave for 10 seconds to restore their fresh-from-the-oven taste.
FAQ – Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, but natural peanut butter tends to make the dough drier. Stir well before using.
What’s the best jelly for these cookies?
Grape and strawberry are the most popular, but any flavor works.
How do I prevent the jelly from spreading too much?
Make a deeper indentation and don’t overfill with jelly.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Can I make them without eggs?
Yes! Replace the egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
Conclusion – A Must-Try Cookie Recipe!
If you’re looking for a nostalgic yet exciting treat, Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are a must-try. They’re fun to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to bring smiles to anyone who tries them.
Give this recipe a go and let us know how your cookies turn out in the comments below. Happy baking! 🍪🥜🍓