Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories, our Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are just the thing! This recipe takes the comforting flavors of your favorite PB&J sandwich and transforms them into soft, chewy cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a busy week or hosting a family gathering, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe so special is not just its nostalgic flavor but also how easy it is to whip up. You don’t even need a mixer! Just gather your ingredients, and let’s create some cookie magic together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No mixer needed! With minimal prep time, you can enjoy freshly baked cookies in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves peanut butter and jelly. These cookies are a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The dough can be made in advance, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or snack cravings.
• Deliciously Nostalgic: Each bite is packed with rich peanut butter flavor and sweet strawberry jam, bringing back fond memories.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these scrumptious Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything!

• 1 stick (113 grams) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (270 grams) creamy natural peanut butter, (very well stirred)
• 1 cup (200 grams) packed light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 ¾ cups (349 grams) bleached all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
• 2 large eggs, (at room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¾ cup (240 grams) strawberry jam or jelly, (chilled)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with the flavors. Here are some fun variation ideas:

• Try Different Jams: Experiment with raspberry or blueberry preserves for a unique twist.
• Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra indulgent treat, fold in some semi-sweet chocolate chips into the cookie dough.
• Switch Up the Nut Butter: Use almond or cashew butter if you prefer something different from peanut butter.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. While that’s heating up, line large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick!

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt your butter in the microwave using 20-second bursts until fully melted. Add the creamy peanut butter and stir until smooth. Mixing them together when warm helps create a perfect blend of flavors.

Step 3: Combine Sugars

Next, add both sugars into your warm butter and peanut butter mixture. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. Let this mixture cool slightly before moving on to avoid cooking the eggs later.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and sea salt. This step helps ensure that all dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to your cooled butter mixture and whisk well. Then gently stir in the flour mixture using a sturdy spatula until just combined—don’t overmix!

Step 6: Shape Your Cookies

Using a large spring-loaded cookie scoop, form dough into generous rounds—about three tablespoons each. Roll them between your palms to smooth them out. Create a little well in each dough ball using your thumb. Fill this well with about one heaping teaspoon of chilled strawberry jam before sealing it up again—let some of that lovely jam peek out!

Step 7: Bake Away

Place your jam-filled cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets about three inches apart. Bake them for about 14 minutes or until they’re puffed up and lightly golden at the edges.

Step 8: Cooling Time

Let those delicious cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This will help them set perfectly!

Now you have perfectly soft Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies ready to be enjoyed! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days—but trust me, they won’t last long!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Baking these cookies is a joy, and with a few handy tips, you can make them even more delightful!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing. This helps create a smoother dough and results in a softer cookie.
• Choose the right peanut butter: Opt for creamy natural peanut butter that is well-stirred. This ensures that the consistency is perfect for blending, meaning your cookies will have that rich peanut flavor throughout.
• Don’t skip chilling the jam: Using chilled strawberry jam helps it hold its shape in the cookies. This way, it won’t run out during baking, leaving you with those perfect pockets of sweetness.
• Leave space on the baking sheet: Make sure to space your cookie dough balls about 3 inches apart. This allows them to spread properly while baking without merging into one another.
• Monitor baking time closely: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; every oven is different! They should be lightly browned at the edges and puffed up in the center for that ideal chewy texture.

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies shine on their own, but there are plenty of ways to present them beautifully. Whether you’re serving them at a gathering or enjoying them at home, here are some ideas.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
• Fresh fruit: Serve with slices of fresh strawberries or bananas on the side for a colorful, fruity contrast that enhances the nostalgic flavors.

Side Dishes

• Milk: A classic pairing! A cold glass of milk complements the richness of peanut butter perfectly.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cookies and adds a healthy touch to your dessert table.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful contrast to your cookies, creating a wholesome dessert experience.
• Ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream served alongside these cookies makes for an indulgent treat that’s hard to resist!

With these serving suggestions, your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies will not only taste amazing but also look inviting on any dessert spread. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful treats!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful treat to have on hand anytime you need a sweet snack or dessert. They store well and can even be frozen, ensuring that you always have a taste of nostalgia ready to enjoy.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Keep them for up to two days for optimal freshness.
• For longer life, consider freezing as described below.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be kept frozen for up to three months.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• For a quick option, microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

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

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! If you love the texture of crunchy peanut butter, feel free to swap it in. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall texture of the cookies slightly.

How should I store Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freezing is a great option!

What kind of jam can I use in Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

While strawberry is classic, feel free to experiment with other flavors like raspberry or blueberry. The choice is yours!

Can I make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies without eggs?

Yes! For an egg substitute, consider using unsweetened applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water. This will help bind the ingredients together.

How long do these cookies last?

If stored properly, they will last about two days at room temperature or up to three months if frozen. Enjoy them while they’re fresh!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies! They’re not just delicious; they carry a sense of nostalgia that brings back fond memories. Whether you’re whipping them up for yourself or sharing them with loved ones, I’m sure they’ll bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or just want to share your cookie-making adventures!