Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a fun bake sale. These delightful cookies blend the rich flavor of peanut butter with a sweet dollop of fruit jam, making them irresistible to cookie lovers everywhere. Plus, they come together in just 30 minutes, so you can whip up a batch whenever the craving hits!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These cookies require no chilling time and can be ready in under 30 minutes.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jam creates a heavenly taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for parties, lunchboxes, or dessert after dinner, these cookies fit right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to use your favorite jam or even experiment with different nut butters!
• Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze the dough for later baking, making it convenient for unexpected guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or mixing bowl
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cookie scoop
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes combining ingredients effortless and ensures a fluffy dough without much elbow grease.
• Baking sheets: Provides a flat surface for even baking of your cookies.
• Cookie scoop: Helps portion out uniform cookie sizes for consistent baking results.

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!

• 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
• 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 silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

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 to ensure even mixing.

Step 3: Add Sugars

Add 3/4 cup granulated sugar and 1/4 cup packed brown sugar. Beat well until fluffy with no chunks remaining.

Step 4: Incorporate Peanut Butter

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

Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla

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

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Incorporate 1 and 1/2 cups flour, but don’t stir yet. Sprinkle on top 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt. Stir gently with a teaspoon.

Step 7: Mix Dough

Turn on the mixer to combine everything smoothly. Stop once the dough barely comes together; avoid overmixing as this could lead to tough cookies.

Step 8: Form Cookie Balls

Shape the dough into balls about 1 and 1/2 inches in size. A cookie scoop works great here!

Step 9: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place each cookie ball on the prepared baking sheets with space between each one. They will spread during baking.

Step 10: Flatten Cookies

Dip a fork into sugar or flour to prevent sticking. Press down on each cookie ball twice to flatten them slightly.

Step 11: Add Jam Topping

Stir up 1/2 cup seedless jam, then carefully add about 1 teaspoon of jam on top of each cookie, ensuring it stays centered.

Step 12: Bake

Bake at 350 degrees F for about 13–15 minutes until edges are set but not browned too much.

Step 13: Cool Cookies

Let cookies sit on the pan for at least 5–10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm with milk!

Step 14: Garnish

If desired, top with more stirred jam, melted peanut butter drizzle, or chopped peanuts for extra flair.

Step 15: Storage Tips

This recipe yields around 28 cookies. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze the dough for future cravings!

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Serving Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies can be a delightful experience, especially when pairing them with the right accompaniments. Here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your cookie enjoyment!

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a classic combination that complements the peanut butter flavor perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create an ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This adds a creamy texture that balances the cookie’s softness.

Gourmet Coffee or Tea

• Serve alongside a cup of gourmet coffee or tea. The rich flavors of roasted coffee or herbal tea can elevate the taste experience.

Fruit Platter

• Add freshness to your dessert table by serving these cookies with a platter of seasonal fruits like strawberries, apples, or bananas.

Peanut Butter Drizzle

• Drizzle melted peanut butter over the baked cookies for an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal. This is a great option for those who love peanut butter!

How to Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

To achieve the best Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies, follow these helpful tips for perfect results every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cookies soft and tender. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill Dough if Needed: If your dough is too sticky, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before shaping. This helps maintain their shape during baking.

• Watch Baking Time Closely: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; you want them slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

• Store Properly: Place leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

These delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies can be enjoyed even more with some tasty side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness that contrasts nicely with sweet cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries to create a delightful contrast in textures alongside your cookies.

3. Chocolate Milkshake: A rich chocolate milkshake pairs wonderfully with the flavors of peanut butter and jelly.

4. Cheese Platter: Soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese offer a savory balance to sweet cookies.

5. Granola Bars: These chewy snacks provide an energy boost and complement the cookie’s flavors well.

6. Sliced Apples with Caramel Dip: The sweetness of caramel dip enhances the natural flavor of apples, making them a great side option.

7. Trail Mix: A mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits can add crunchiness and variety when served alongside cookies.

8. Popcorn: Seasoned popcorn can provide a fun, crunchy contrast that’s easy to prepare!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially with cookies. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when making Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies.

• Using cold butter: Cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always use softened butter for a light and fluffy texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them tender.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can dry out your cookies. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.
• Ignoring baking times: Baking cookies too long can make them hard. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time.
• Skipping the cooling time: Transferring cookies too soon can cause breakage. Let them cool on the pan before moving them to a wire rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough by shaping it into balls and placing it in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months.
• For baked cookies, store in an airtight container or wrap individually.

Reheating Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate, heating for 10-15 seconds at a time until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies that might help you in your baking journey.

What is the secret to soft Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

The key is using softened butter and not overmixing your dough. This keeps the cookies tender and chewy.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture, making your cookies even more delicious.

How do I prevent jam from spilling off my cookies?

When adding jam, ensure you place it right in the center of each cookie so it stays put during baking.

Can I customize these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

Absolutely! You can change the flavor of the jam or even mix in chocolate chips or nuts for added variety.

How should I store leftover Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. With their rich peanut butter flavor combined with sweet jam, they are sure to please everyone. Don’t hesitate to try different jams or add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a personal twist!