Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

If you are a fan of the nostalgic classic sandwich turned into a delightful treat, you’re going to adore these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies. Imagine the creamy, nutty richness of peanut butter melded with bursts of sweet, tangy jelly, all baked into perfect little bites that dance between soft and chewy. These cookies capture the playful spirit of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, but with a tender texture and a touch of elegance that makes them irresistible for both kids and adults alike. Once you try these cookies, they’ll quickly become a beloved favorite to bake again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients might be pantry essentials, but each one plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture for your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies. From the creamy peanut butter that provides richness to the flour that brings structure, here’s everything you’ll want to gather before you start baking.

• 1/2 cup butter, 1 stick: Softened butter adds tenderness and a rich buttery flavor to the dough.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Gives the cookies sweetness and helps them caramelize slightly for that perfect bite.
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor and extra moisture for chewiness.
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star ingredient, providing that iconic peanut flavor and creamy texture.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold all ingredients together and adds moisture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, inviting aroma.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough that gives structure and allows the cookies to hold their shape.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough for a soft, tender texture.
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
• 1/2 cup seedless jam: Traditionally grape or strawberry, adds a bright, fruity contrast in every bite.
• Additional jam for topping: To create that glossy, inviting dollop on each cookie.
• Melted peanut butter for garnish: An optional drizzle to boost peanut flavor and add a beautiful finish.
• Chopped peanuts for garnish: Adds delightful crunch and a rustic touch.

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tools

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This simple prep will ensure your cookies bake evenly and come off the pan without a fuss.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

The magic begins by beating the butter until it’s smooth and creamy. When you add the granulated and brown sugar, continue beating until the mixture is fluffy with no butter lumps. This step creates a light base that traps air, helping your cookies have a tender crumb.

Step 3: Add Peanut Butter, Egg, and Vanilla

Mix in the peanut butter for that rich, nutty essence that defines these cookies. Adding the egg and vanilla next will combine all the flavors beautifully and provide moisture to your dough.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Before mixing, sprinkle the baking soda and kosher salt evenly on top of the flour. This helps distribute the leavening agent and salt evenly throughout the dough for consistent flavor and texture.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients In

Turn your mixer on low and gradually add the dry ingredients. Mix just until the dough barely comes together—even if you still see some flour streaks at first. Too much mixing develops gluten and can make your cookies tough, so patience is key here!

Step 6: Shape and Flatten the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into 1.5-inch balls and place them spaced out on your baking sheets. Dip a fork in sugar or flour to keep it from sticking and gently press down on each ball twice to flatten to about half an inch. This pressing also gives you the classic fork mark that looks so inviting.

Step 7: Add the Jam

Stir your seedless jam to smooth out any lumps, then carefully spoon about one teaspoon onto the center of each cookie. Be sure not to let it spill over the edges to prevent a gummy mess on your pan and keep the cookie looking tidy.

Step 8: Bake and Cool

Bake your cookies for 13 to 15 minutes until the edges are just set and starting to turn a delicate golden brown. Underbaking is not recommended here—these cookies need that gentle bake to hold with the moist jam topping. After baking, let them cool on the pan for several minutes to firm up before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Garnishes

Take your presentation up a notch by lightly swirling more jam on top of each cookie once cooled. Drizzle with some melted peanut butter and sprinkle chopped peanuts for an irresistible, glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair perfectly with a classic cold glass of milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee, balancing the sweet and nutty flavor with comforting beverages.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking a few cookies with a little whipped cream or peanut butter frosting layer in between for a delightful mini dessert sandwich. You can also put an assortment on a colorful plate alongside fresh berries or a small bowl of jam for dipping fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This prevents dryness while preserving the soft, chewy texture and jam’s moisture.

Freezing

The cookie dough freezes wonderfully! For the best results, shape and flatten the dough balls with the fork press, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a ziplock bag. You can bake straight from frozen, adding a minute or two extra bake time. Alternatively, pre-adding jam and flash-freezing before bagging works too if you prefer.

Reheating

Reheat cookies gently in a warm oven (around 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 to 7 minutes to bring back that freshly baked softness. Avoid microwaving for long to prevent the jam from becoming too hot or the cookie becoming overly soft.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of extra texture inside the cookies, which can be a fun twist on the classic. Just be mindful it might make the dough slightly more crumbly, so handle gently.

What kind of jam works best?

Seedless grape or strawberry jam are traditional favorites, but feel free to experiment with raspberry, apricot, or even mixed berry jams. Just make sure it’s thick and seedless to keep the jam from sliding off the cookies.

How do I prevent the jam from oozing too much during baking?

Stir the jam smooth to remove lumps, use just a small dollop, and place it squarely in the center of each cookie. Also, avoid letting the jam touch the baking sheet as it can spread and become gummy.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Keep in mind the texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still shine through beautifully.

Why is underbaking not recommended for these cookies?

Because of the moist jam topping and the peanut butter in the dough, underbaking can leave the cookies too soft and fragile. Baking until just set ensures they hold together well while staying tender.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are a heartwarming reminder that simple childhood flavors can be transformed into something truly special. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers pure joy in every bite. So grab your ingredients, have fun with the process, and enjoy these cookies fresh and warm—you truly can’t go wrong with a classic reinvented this deliciously.

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