Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and sweet jam into a soft, tender cookie. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are quick to make and require no chilling time. With their rich peanut butter flavor and a touch of jam on top, they are sure to please kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Whip up these cookies in just 30 minutes! No need to chill the dough.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of peanut butter and jelly creates a nostalgic taste that everyone loves.
• Versatile Options: You can use different flavors of seedless jam to create your own unique variations.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the kids in making these cookies; they’ll enjoy shaping the dough and adding the jam!
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are great for potlucks, parties, or simply enjoying at home with family.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather some essential tools before you start. Having the right equipment can ease your process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Cookie scoop
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mats

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl provides enough space for combining ingredients easily without spills.
• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools save time and effort when beating ingredients together, ensuring a well-mixed dough.
• Cookie scoop: This tool helps portion out uniform cookie sizes, leading to evenly baked cookies.

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

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

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

Step 3: Add Sugars

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

Step 4: Mix in Peanut Butter

Add 1 cup creamy peanut butter to the mixture. You can also use crunchy peanut butter if preferred. Beat until fully combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Egg and Vanilla

Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients

Add 1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour but don’t stir yet. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon baking soda and 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt on top of the flour. Use a teaspoon to stir them together lightly before mixing into the dough.

Step 7: Form Dough

Turn on the mixer to combine dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Stop mixing when no flour streaks remain; be careful not to overmix as this will lead to tough cookies.

Step 8: Shape Cookies

Shape the dough into balls about 1 & 1/2 inches wide using a cookie scoop for uniformity.

Step 9: Place on Baking Sheets

Arrange each cookie on prepared baking sheets with ample space between them—about two inches apart.

Step 10: Flatten Cookies

Dip a fork in sugar or flour (to prevent sticking) and press down gently on each cookie. Turn the fork perpendicular for a crisscross pattern, flattening them to about half an inch thick.

Step 11: Add Jam Topping

In a small bowl, stir together your seedless jam until smooth. Use a teaspoon to place about one teaspoon of jam right in the center of each cookie without letting it slide off edges.

Step 12: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for approximately 13–15 minutes until edges are set with slight browning.

Step 13: Cool Down

Allow cookies to set on pans for at least five to ten minutes before transferring them onto wire racks for complete cooling.

Step 14: Garnish (Optional)

For an appealing presentation, add more stirred jam on top or drizzle melted peanut butter over each cookie before serving.

This delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies recipe makes about 28 cookies—perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Happy baking!

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pair these cookies with cold milk for a classic combination that enhances the flavors and makes for a satisfying snack.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a vibrant dessert platter for gatherings. Add fresh berries or fruit slices for an appealing presentation.

Crumbled Over Ice Cream

• Crumble the cookies over a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. This adds texture and flavor, creating an indulgent dessert.

Gift-Wrapped Treats

• Place the cookies in decorative bags or boxes as gifts. They are perfect for holidays or special occasions, showcasing your baking skills.

Dipped in Chocolate

• Dip half of each cookie in melted chocolate for an extra layer of sweetness. Allow them to set on parchment paper before serving.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

To make your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies even better, follow these handy tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth dough that bakes evenly.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Avoid packing it down, as too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender. Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of soft ones.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try different jams or jellies like raspberry or strawberry for variety. You can also use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
• Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of baking. They should be slightly golden around the edges; underbaking will help maintain their softness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies pair well with various side dishes that complement their flavors perfectly. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries to create a balanced dish that complements the richness of the cookies.
3. Cheese Platter
   Add a selection of cheeses like cream cheese or mild cheddar for a savory contrast to the sweet cookies.
4. Nut Mix
   A blend of almonds, cashews, and walnuts offers crunch and pairs nicely with peanut butter flavors.
5. Coffee or Tea
   Enjoy these cookies with freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
6. Chocolate Milkshake
   A thick chocolate milkshake is an indulgent pairing that will satisfy any sweet tooth alongside these delicious cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping room temperature butter: Using cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Always let your butter soften at room temperature first for a fluffier texture.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can create tough cookies. Stop mixing as soon as you no longer see flour streaks for best results.
• Ignoring baking times: Baking cookies too long can make them hard. Keep an eye on them and pull them out as soon as the edges are set for soft centers.
• Not using parchment paper: Baking directly on the sheet can cause sticking. Always line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats for easier removal.
• Using chunky peanut butter: If you prefer a smoother cookie, use creamy peanut butter instead of chunky. This will help your cookies maintain their shape better.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

• Freeze shaped dough balls before baking for up to 3 months.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in a ziplock bag to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until just heated through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds, watching closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use natural peanut butter in Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

Yes, natural peanut butter can be used but may yield slightly different texture results due to its oil content.

How do I customize my Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or use flavored jams like raspberry or strawberry for unique variations.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your cookie dough feels sticky, add a bit more flour gradually until it reaches a manageable consistency.

How can I make these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies healthier?

Consider using whole wheat flour and reducing sugar slightly; this will still provide great flavor while being lighter.

Can I freeze leftover Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze well. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container or bag.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They offer rich peanut butter flavors paired perfectly with sweet jam, making them irresistible treats. Feel free to customize them with different jams or toppings to match your taste preferences!