Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

A delightful treat for both kids and adults, Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are a nostalgic classic that brings back memories of childhood. With their soft texture and rich peanut butter flavor topped with a sweet jam, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—be it a casual snack or a festive gathering. Best of all, they are quick to whip up, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies can be made in under 30 minutes without the need for chilling.
• Flavor Packed: Each cookie is loaded with creamy peanut butter and topped with your favorite jam, creating a delicious balance.
• Versatile Topping Options: Use any seedless jam you love; the choice is yours! Raspberry, strawberry, or grape all work wonderfully.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: An ideal baking project for kids, allowing them to help add jam and shape the cookies.
• Perfect for Sharing: With about 28 cookies per batch, they’re great for parties or as homemade gifts.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delectable cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or large mixing bowl
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop (optional)
• Fork

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: It makes mixing the ingredients easy and quick, ensuring a light and fluffy dough.
• Baking sheets: A must-have for even baking; lining them helps prevent sticking.
• Cookie scoop: This tool ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

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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!

Ingredients:
– 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 & 1/2 cups flour (spooned and leveled)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
– 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 your 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 smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 3: Mix Sugars

Add 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup packed brown sugar. Beat well until fluffy; there should be no chunks of butter remaining.

Step 4: Incorporate Peanut Butter

Add in 1 cup creamy peanut butter. Mix until fully combined. You may use crunchy peanut butter if preferred!

Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Beat until well mixed.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Without stirring yet, add in 1 & 1/2 cups flour, then sprinkle on top 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Use a teaspoon to combine slightly.

Step 7: Form the Dough

Turn on the mixer at low speed to mix in the dry ingredients until barely combined. Stop before it’s fully mixed; some flour should still be visible.

Step 8: Shape the Cookies

Shape the dough into balls about 1 and 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them on your prepared baking sheets with space between each cookie.

Step 9: Flatten with a Fork

Dip a fork in sugar or flour to prevent sticking. Press down on each cookie ball twice in a crisscross pattern until they’re about half an inch thick.

Step 10: Add Jam Topping

In a bowl, stir together 1/2 cup seedless jam. Use a teaspoon to carefully place about one teaspoon of jam on each cookie’s center without letting it spill over.

Step 11: Bake

Bake your cookies at 350 degrees F for about 13–15 minutes. Look for slight browning at the edges when done.

Step 12: Cool Before Serving

Let cookies cool on the pan for at least 5–10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm with milk if you can resist!

This recipe makes around 28 cookies that you can store in an airtight container for up to three days. Enjoy these delightful treats any time!

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

These delightful cookies can be enjoyed in various ways that enhance their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combination that balances the sweetness of the jam and richness of the peanut butter.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This treat is perfect for hot days!

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Add slices of fresh bananas or strawberries on top of the cookies before serving. The fresh fruit adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Garnished with Chopped Nuts

• Sprinkle some chopped peanuts or almonds on top for a crunchy contrast to the soft cookie texture, enhancing both taste and visual appeal.

Served Warm

• Enjoy these cookies fresh out of the oven while they are warm. The gooey jam paired with warm peanut butter creates an irresistible treat.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

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

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts. This helps maintain the right texture and flavor balance.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth, creamy dough.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies; stop as soon as you no longer see flour streaks.

• Chill Your Dough if Needed: If your dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes. This makes it easier to handle without affecting the final product.

• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Bake until edges are set but still soft in the center. Underbaking slightly helps keep them chewy.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Complement your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies with these delicious side dishes that add variety to your dessert table.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and freshness, balancing the rich flavors of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that contrasts nicely with the cookies’ softness.

3. Chocolate Milkshake: A thick chocolate milkshake pairs well for those who love indulgent flavors alongside their cookies.

4. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide a chewy texture that complements the cookie crunch while adding healthy ingredients.

5. Sliced Apples with Cinnamon Sugar: Crisp apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon sugar offer a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with peanut butter flavors.

6. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the cookie’s flavor while providing warmth, making this combo perfect for cozy gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome.

• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect cookie texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can make cookies tough instead of soft and tender. Mix until just combined for the best results.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t cream well with sugars, resulting in dense cookies. Always use softened butter for optimal fluffiness.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Baking directly on the sheet can lead to sticking and uneven baking. Parchment paper ensures easy removal and even baking.
• Ignoring baking times: Each oven is different; always keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Removing them at the right time ensures they stay soft and chewy.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep them at room temperature to maintain softness.

Freezing Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a ziplock bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out.
• Stovetop: Place a pan on low heat, cover it, and warm cookies for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies.

How do I make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in equal amounts for delicious gluten-free cookies.

What is the best type of jam for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

Seedless jams work best as they spread evenly without chunks. Choose your favorite flavor like raspberry or strawberry!

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture! Just remember it may slightly alter the cookie’s consistency.

How long does it take to prepare Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

The total time from preparation to baking is only about 30 minutes, making these cookies quick and easy!

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different jams or nut butters according to your preference. Whether you’re serving them at gatherings or enjoying them alone with milk, these cookies will surely delight everyone!