There’s something so heartwarming about the familiar taste of Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies that instantly transports me back to carefree childhood afternoons. Picture biting into a soft, chewy cookie with melty, creamy peanut butter mingling with a sweet, jammy center—each mouthful a delightful nostalgia trip! This recipe is not only a breeze to whip up but also a chance to bring that classic flavor combination into your kitchen in a new way. With just a few simple ingredients, including your favorite jelly flavor, you’ll create treats that are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering with friends. Let’s dive into the magic of these Soft Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies and fill your home with sweet aromas that beckon everyone to the table!
Why are Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies irresistible?
Nostalgic Delight: These cookies transport you back to your childhood with every bite.
Effortless Preparation: With simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time.
Flavor Versatility: Experiment with different jellies like raspberry or apricot for exciting twists!
Chewy Texture: The soft, chewy center filled with gooey jelly is pure bliss.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Perfect for parties or just an afternoon snack, they are sure to impress!
Make-Ahead Magic: Prepped dough can be stored in the fridge for spontaneous cookie cravings.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture. Substitution Note: Use salted butter, but reduce added salt.
- Creamy Peanut Butter – Provides primary flavor and structure. Substitution Note: Natural peanut butter will not yield the same results.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning.
- Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a slight caramel flavor.
- Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to the cookies.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping cookies rise.
- Salt – Balances sweetness.
For the Jelly Center
- Strawberry Jelly – Fills cookie centers and provides sweetness; can be replaced with your favorite jelly flavor.
For the Drizzle
- Creamy Peanut Butter (for drizzle) – Adds a delicious finishing touch to elevate the cookies.
With these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating a timeless treat that’ll warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!
How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
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Melt Ingredients: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter together in 20-second increments. Stir until smooth and well combined.
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Mix Sugars & Egg: Add granulated sugar and brown sugar to the melted mixture. Stir until blended, then incorporate the egg and vanilla extract for a creamy, luscious batter.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
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Chill Dough: Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F. This step helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
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Shape Cookies: After chilling, scoop the dough into 12 equal balls and roll them into smooth spheres. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
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Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-9 minutes, until the edges are cracked and the centers are just set. Press an indent in the middle with your thumb while they’re warm for the jelly.
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Add the Jelly: Heat the strawberry jelly in the microwave until it’s pourable. Carefully fill each indent in the cookies with the warm jelly.
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Drizzle Peanut Butter: Melt the additional creamy peanut butter in the microwave until smooth. Drizzle it over the filled cookies and allow them to set for 20 minutes before serving.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra flavor dimension!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?
When it comes to enjoying these delightful treats, pairing them with the right sides can elevate your experience to new heights.
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Cold Glass of Milk:
The classic pairing! A glass of cold milk complements the rich, creamy flavors perfectly and offers a refreshing contrast to the sweetness. -
Fresh Fruit Salad:
A colorful medley of fruits provides a refreshing, light balance against the richness of the cookies, enhancing the overall flavor profile. -
Chocolate Ice Cream:
The smooth, creamy texture of chocolate ice cream brings a decadent contrast to the chewy cookies, creating a dreamy dessert experience. -
Coffee or Latte:
A warm cup of coffee or a frothy latte adds a cozy element, with the caffeine perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cookies. -
Honey Yogurt Dip:
A dollop of honey-sweetened yogurt offers a tangy, creamy contrast that enhances the peanut butter and jelly flavors deliciously. -
Nutty Trail Mix:
An assortment of crunchy nuts and dried fruits provides a satisfying textural contrast alongside the soft cookies, making each bite enjoyable. -
Dark Chocolate Drizzle:
Elevate your cookie experience by drizzling melted dark chocolate on top, adding an indulgent twist to the already delightful treat. -
Sparkling Lemonade:
The refreshing zing of lemonade brings a zesty brightness that’s perfect for cutting through the cookie’s richness, making for a delightful pairing.
Expert Tips for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
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Melt Thoroughly: Ensure both the butter and peanut butter are fully melted and mixed for a smooth batter, which is crucial in creating these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies.
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Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough uniformly, preventing some cookies from undercooking while others overbake.
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Press Down Gently: After baking, press the cookies slightly to create a deep well for the jelly; this will help contain the sweet filling.
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Control the Jelly: Be cautious not to overfill the indents with jelly, as it can overflow during baking—less is often more to keep the cookies intact!
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Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool completely after drizzling with peanut butter to let the topping set, enhancing both flavor and appearance.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these cookies your own with these delightful twists!
- Different Jellies: Swap strawberry jelly for raspberry, apricot, or grape for exciting new flavors. Each option lends a unique twist!
- Almond Butter: Replace creamy peanut butter with almond butter for a nutty variation that’s equally delicious. It adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Instead of peanut butter, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for a rich, indulgent treat that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Add Nuts: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch and richer texture that complements the soft cookie.
- Oatmeal Twist: Add rolled oats to the dough for a heartier cookie with added chewiness—perfect for a satisfying snack.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg into the dough to elevate the flavor profile with warm spices.
- Maple Syrup: Sweeten with maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetness that adds a beautifully unique flavor.
- Heat It Up: For a zingy kick, mix in a hint of cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili powder to the cookie dough, perfect for adventurous palates!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.
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Fridge: For longer storage, keep cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
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Freezer: Freeze individual cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a few seconds.
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Reheating: Reheat in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a warm oven to restore that freshly baked charm before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 72 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. This chilling not only enhances the flavors but also allows the dough to firm up, resulting in perfectly shaped cookies. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and shape the dough, then follow the baking instructions as usual. Additionally, you can make the jelly filling and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. This way, your homemade treats are just as delicious and fresh, saving you time and making your baking experience effortless!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe FAQs
What is the best peanut butter to use in my Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using creamy peanut butter. Avoid natural versions, as they can lead to a different consistency that won’t yield the same delightful chewy cookies.
How should I store Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies, and how long do they last?
You can store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness. If you want to keep them longer, the fridge is a good option—just make sure they remain sealed to prevent drying out. They’ll stay fresh there for about a week.
Can I freeze Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?
Very! To freeze, place your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until they freeze solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. These cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked flavor!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky, it may help to chill it for longer before shaping your cookies. Alternatively, you can sprinkle a tiny bit of flour during mixing to help as you combine. Just be careful not to add too much, as that could affect the texture.
Can I use different jelly flavors for my cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the strawberry jelly for your favorites, like raspberry, apricot, or even grape. This customization can add a fun twist to your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies!
Are Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
These cookies do contain peanut butter, so they are not recommended for individuals with nut allergies. However, you can substitute the peanut butter with sunbutter (sunflower seed butter) for a nut-free option while still enjoying delicious flavors!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies That Take You Back to Childhood
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter and creamy peanut butter together in 20-second increments. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Add granulated sugar and brown sugar to the melted mixture. Stir until blended, then incorporate the egg and vanilla extract for a creamy, luscious batter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.
- Cover the cookie dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F.
- After chilling, scoop the dough into 12 equal balls and roll them into smooth spheres. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake the cookies for 8-9 minutes, until the edges are cracked and the centers are just set. Press an indent in the middle with your thumb while they're warm for the jelly.
- Heat the strawberry jelly in the microwave until it’s pourable. Carefully fill each indent in the cookies with the warm jelly.
- Melt the additional creamy peanut butter in the microwave until smooth. Drizzle it over the filled cookies and allow them to set for 20 minutes before serving.