Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

If you’re looking for a delicious way to bring back childhood memories, these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are just the treat you need! Imagine soft, chewy cookies that capture the nostalgic flavors of a classic PB&J sandwich. They are easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, there’s something so comforting about enjoying a cookie that reminds you of those carefree days of lunchboxes and playtime.

These cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also pack in that beloved peanut butter goodness with delightful pockets of strawberry jam. You’ll love how simple it is to create this delightful dessert, no mixer required!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have these cookies in the oven in just 25 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the classic taste of peanut butter and jelly, making these cookies a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy them all week long; they only get softer and more delicious!
• No Special Equipment Needed: With just a bowl and a spatula, you’ll be on your way to cookie heaven without any fuss.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or part of a festive spread, these cookies fit right in!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to baking success! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create our Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies.

For the Cookies

• 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! Here are some fun ideas to mix things up:

• Change the Jam: Swap out strawberry for raspberry or blueberry jam for a different flavor twist.
• Add Some Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or peanuts for added texture.
• Make Them Chocolatey: Add chocolate chips to the dough for an extra treat.
• Try Different Nut Butters: Use almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter if you’re feeling adventurous!

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This is important because it ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden. While that’s heating up, line large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper—a great trick to prevent sticking!

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter in 20-second bursts until it’s fully melted. After this step, add the creamy peanut butter and stir until they’re well combined. Then, add both sugars and whisk until smooth. Allow this mixture to cool until it’s just warm; this helps keep the eggs from cooking when added.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and fine sea salt. This step is key because combining these dry ingredients ensures they’re evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

To your cooled butter mixture, add in the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until fully incorporated. Then gently fold in the dry ingredient mixture using a sturdy spatula—be careful not to overmix!

Step 5: Shape Your Cookies

Using a large spring-loaded cookie scoop, form dough into 3-tablespoon rounds. Roll them between your palms for a smooth finish. With your thumb, create a little well in each one—this is where your jam will go! Place about one heaping teaspoon of chilled jam in each well before sealing it slightly with more dough.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Place your shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets with visible jam facing up. Bake them for about 14 minutes or until they’re puffed up and lightly brown at the edges. The aroma will fill your kitchen—trust me!

Step 7: Cool Them Down

Let those beautiful cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This step allows them to set properly while still being warm and gooey.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to two days—though I bet they won’t last that long! The longer they sit, the softer they become, creating an irresistible treat that everyone will love.

Now you’re ready to enjoy these delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Ensuring your eggs and butter are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter, allowing for better incorporation of flavors and a more uniform texture.

• Opt for natural peanut butter – Natural peanut butter provides a rich flavor without added sugars or oils, making your cookies taste homemade and wholesome. Just remember to stir it well before measuring!

• Chill the jam – Using chilled strawberry jam makes it easier to handle while filling the cookies. Plus, it helps maintain its shape during baking, giving you that perfect gooey center.

• Don’t overmix the dough – Mixing just until combined will keep your cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies due to the development of gluten in the flour.

• Experiment with different jams – While strawberry is classic, feel free to get creative! Blueberry, raspberry, or even peach jam can bring exciting new flavors to this beloved cookie.

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas on how to present them beautifully for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the flavors perfectly.
• Fresh berries – Scatter a few fresh strawberries or raspberries around your cookie platter. They add color and freshness that pairs beautifully with the cookies.

Side Dishes

• Milk – A classic pairing! Serve your cookies alongside a cold glass of milk for a delightful nostalgic experience reminiscent of childhood.

• Fruit salad – A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a light contrast to the rich peanut butter flavor of the cookies. It’s colorful and healthy!

• Yogurt parfaits – Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a satisfying side dish that adds creamy texture and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

• Ice cream – For an indulgent treat, serve these cookies warm with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream. The melting ice cream creates an irresistible combination!

Enjoy baking, sharing, and savoring these delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to two days.
• If you prefer them soft, you may want to add a slice of bread to the container to help retain moisture.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place the cookies 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 stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place frozen or thawed cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! Using crunchy peanut butter will give your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies extra texture. Just ensure it’s well stirred before using.

How long do Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly, these delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies will stay fresh for up to two days at room temperature or three months if frozen.

What type of jam works best in these cookies?

Strawberry jam is traditional, but feel free to experiment with any flavor you love! Raspberry or grape jams also work wonderfully in these cookies.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Absolutely! You can substitute each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies as much as I do! They bring back so many fond memories while offering a comforting treat that’s easy to whip up. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or indulging yourself, each bite is sure to delight. Happy baking, and don’t forget to let me know how they turn out!