Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories while satisfying your sweet tooth. These cookies boast a rich peanut butter flavor complemented by a sweet jam topping, making them perfect for any occasion—from casual snacks to festive gatherings. With a quick preparation time of just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires no chilling time and can be made in under 30 minutes.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jam creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Versatile: Enjoy these cookies on their own or dress them up with extra jam and melted peanut butter for a show-stopping dessert.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen, making these cookies a fun family activity.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze some for later, ensuring you always have this delicious treat on hand.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will make baking much more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools make it easy to beat butter and sugar until fluffy, ensuring your cookies have the perfect texture.
• Baking sheets: Proper baking sheets allow even heat distribution while baking cookies, preventing burning or uneven cooking.

Ingredients

A soft, tender cookie recipe with TONS of peanut butter flavor baked with a dollop of jam on top. These cookies are easy to make, don’t have to chill, and can be done in 30 minutes flat!

For the Cookies:

• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 and 1/2 cups flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup seedless jam
• More jam (to top baked cookies)
• Melted peanut butter (to garnish)
• Chopped peanuts (to garnish)

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Step 2: Cream the Butter

In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat 1/2 cup butter until it is smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Add 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup packed brown sugar. Beat well until fluffy, ensuring there are no chunks of butter remaining.

Step 4: Mix in Peanut Butter

Add 1 cup creamy peanut butter. You can also use crunchy peanut butter if desired. Beat well until fully combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla

Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Mix until all ingredients are blended.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, but do not stir yet. Sprinkle on top 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Gently mix these dry ingredients together with a teaspoon.

Step 7: Form the Dough

Turn on your mixer to combine the dry ingredients into the dough. Stop mixing when some flour is still visible—overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Scrape down the sides as needed until no flour streaks remain.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Shape the dough into balls about 1 and 1/2 inches in diameter. A cookie scoop works well for this step.

Step 9: Place on Baking Sheet

Place each cookie ball onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about two inches of space between them. Aim for around twelve cookies per sheet.

Step 10: Flatten with Fork

Dip a fork into sugar or flour to prevent sticking. Press down gently on each cookie, turning the fork perpendicular to create a crisscross pattern. Flatten them to about half an inch thickness, dipping again in sugar as needed.

Step 11: Add Jam Topping

In a small bowl, stir together 1/2 cup seedless jam to smooth it out. Carefully spoon about one teaspoon of jam onto each cookie’s center without letting it slide off the edges.

Step 12: Bake Cookies

Bake at 350 degrees F for approximately 13–15 minutes. Look for set edges with slight browning at the very edges.

Step 13: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool on the pan for at least five to ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 14: Enhance Presentation

For added flair, top each cookie with more stirred jam, drizzle with melted peanut butter, or sprinkle chopped peanuts over them before serving.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze dough balls for future enjoyment!

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Serving Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies can be a delightful experience. These cookies are not only tasty but also versatile, making them perfect for various occasions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair warm cookies with cold milk for a classic combination that enhances the peanut butter flavor.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Choose vanilla, chocolate, or even berry-flavored ice cream for a fun twist.

For Dessert Platters

• Arrange cookies on a dessert platter alongside fresh fruits or other baked goods for an inviting display.

Packaged Lunches

• Include these cookies in lunchboxes for a sweet treat that kids (and adults) will love during their midday break.

At Parties

• Serve at parties as finger desserts. They can be the star of the dessert table, drawing guests in with their colorful jam topping.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

To ensure your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to get precise amounts, ensuring the right dough consistency.

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than soft and tender ones.

• Chill Your Dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help improve texture and flavor.

• Use Quality Jam: Opt for high-quality seedless jam. This enhances taste and ensures it stays nicely on top of the cookie.

• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake; slight browning at the edges indicates they’re done without being overbaked.

• Let Cool Properly: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack for complete cooling.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of berries, melons, and citrus adds freshness that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait
   Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy contrast that pairs well with the cookies’ texture.

3. Chocolate Milkshake
   A rich chocolate milkshake offers indulgence that kids and adults alike will enjoy alongside these treats.

4. Nutty Trail Mix
   Combine nuts, seeds, and dried fruits for a crunchy snack that works well as a side dish.

5. Carrot Sticks with Hummus
   Crunchy carrots dipped in hummus provide a healthy balance to the sweetness of your cookies.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses offers a savory touch that complements the sweet peanut butter flavor beautifully.

7. Mini Muffins
   Serve mini blueberry or banana muffins as a delightful sweet addition to your snack table.

8. Coconut Chia Pudding
   This refreshing pudding is light yet satisfying, making it an excellent pairing with your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies is delightful, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see flour streaks.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to 350 degrees F for consistent results.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter can result in a dense texture. Let your butter come to room temperature before mixing.
• Skipping the jam step: Forgetting to add jam or placing it incorrectly can lead to a messy cookie. Ensure you place it in the center and not on the edges.
• Not allowing cookies to cool: Transferring cookies too soon can cause them to break. Let them set for at least 5-10 minutes on the baking sheet.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Use wax paper between layers if stacking, to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

• Shape and press cookies before freezing, then transfer to a ziplock bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. No need to thaw; bake directly from frozen!

Reheating Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Place cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: For best results, warm in a covered pan over low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies:

How do I ensure my Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are soft?

To keep them soft, avoid overbaking. Look for slightly underdone edges that will firm up as they cool.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add texture and flavor, creating a delightful variation of these cookies.

What type of jam works best with Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

Seedless options like grape or strawberry jam are popular choices, but feel free to use any flavor you love!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

How do I customize my Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

You can mix in chocolate chips, oats, or even different nut butters for unique flavors!

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are not just easy to make; they are incredibly versatile too! Customize them with your favorite jams or toppings like chocolate chips or nuts. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, these cookies offer comfort in every bite. Don’t hesitate; try this recipe today!