Name: Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature; ½ cup sugar; ½ cup light brown sugar; 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 large egg, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ¼ cup granulated sugar for rolling (optional); ½ – 1 cup strawberry jelly or seedless jam; ¼ cup creamy peanut butter, melted (optional); ¼ cup peanuts, roughly chopped (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe are a delightful twist on the classic sandwich. These soft and chewy cookies feature a crunchy sugar coating with a delicious strawberry jam-filled center. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to special celebrations, this recipe brings the nostalgia of childhood into a tasty treat that everyone will love. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly makes these cookies irresistibly good!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Delicious Flavor: The rich peanut butter flavor combined with sweet strawberry jelly creates a delightful taste experience that is sure to please.
Customizable: You can easily switch out the jelly flavors or add toppings like chopped peanuts for an extra crunch.
Perfect for Sharing: With 20 cookies per batch, these treats are great for parties, potlucks, or just sharing with friends and family.
Nostalgic Appeal: This recipe takes you back to childhood with its familiar flavors, making it a hit with both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will help ensure your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes it easy to cream butter and sugars together quickly.
Mixing bowls: Helps keep your ingredients organized while preparing the dough.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

1½ cups (180 g) all purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
½ cup (100 g) sugar
½ cup (100 g) light brown sugar
1 cup (156 g) creamy peanut butter
1 large egg, room temperature
2 teaspoons (10 ml) vanilla extract
¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar for rolling (optional)
½ – 1 cup (144 – 289 g) strawberry jelly or seedless jam
¼ cup creamy peanut butter, melted (optional)
¼ cup peanuts, roughly chopped (optional)

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside for now.

Step 2: Cream Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter with both sugars until smooth. This should take about 2–3 minutes on medium speed. Next, add in the creamy peanut butter and mix on medium speed for another minute until well blended. On low speed, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined. Finally, stir in the dry ingredients until just mixed.

Step 3: Chill Dough

Cover the cookie dough in plastic wrap and transfer it to the fridge to rest for about 30–60 minutes while preheating your oven. Chilling is optional but helps reduce spreading during baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).

Step 4: Shape Cookies

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons), form balls of dough. Roll each ball in granulated sugar if desired, then place them about three inches apart on the baking sheet. Use your thumb or a measuring spoon to create an indentation in each cookie’s center; fill it with about one teaspoon of jelly or jam.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

Bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 14–15 minutes or until edges are set and cracks appear on top. After pulling them from the oven, gently nudge each cookie into shape using a biscuit cutter or glass while they’re hot. Cool on the baking sheet for about ten minutes.

Step 6: Add Toppings

If desired, add another teaspoon of jelly into each warm cookie’s center. For an extra treat, drizzle melted peanut butter over them and sprinkle with chopped peanuts before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your homemade Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies!

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Peanut butter and jelly cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

A classic pairing that enhances the flavors of peanut butter and jelly. The creaminess of milk complements the chewy texture of the cookies.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

Place a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert. The warm cookies will slightly melt the ice cream, creating a deliciously gooey treat.

Topped with Extra Jam

For those who love extra sweetness, adding more strawberry jam on top right after baking creates a vibrant and flavorful finish.

Drizzled with Chocolate

Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for added richness. This combination brings another layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with peanut butter.

On a Dessert Platter

Arrange your cookies on a platter alongside other treats like brownies or bars for a delightful dessert spread at parties or gatherings.

As Party Favors

Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbon. It makes for a sweet and personal party favor that guests can take home.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

To ensure your peanut butter and jelly cookies turn out perfect every time, follow these handy tips.

Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30-60 minutes helps prevent excessive spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing, leading to a smoother cookie batter.
Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly, which can lead to too much flour and dry cookies.
Cookie Scoot Technique: After baking, gently reshape the cookies using a round object to ensure they maintain a nice, round shape.
Experiment with Jams: While strawberry is classic, feel free to try other flavors like raspberry or grape to switch up the taste profile.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the baking time; removing them when they’re slightly underbaked will keep them soft and chewy as they cool.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Pairing side dishes with peanut butter and jelly cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries for a healthy complement.
Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like brie or mascarpone for a savory contrast to sweet cookies.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These add elegance and resonate well with the jam in your cookies.
Nut Mix: A simple bowl of assorted nuts provides crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the chewy texture.
Coffee or Tea: Serve with your favorite brew; the warmth enhances flavors while offering a comforting drink option.
Milkshakes: Opt for classic flavors like vanilla or chocolate; they make an indulgent pairing.
Brownies: For chocolate lovers, brownies offer a rich treat that complements peanut butter perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making peanut butter and jelly cookies, avoiding common pitfalls can lead to the perfect treat.

Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can cause the cookies to spread too much. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for a thicker cookie.
Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for a soft, chewy texture.
Not measuring ingredients correctly: Incorrect measurements can affect the cookie’s consistency. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can impact how well the ingredients blend. Ensure they are at room temperature for best results.
Ignoring baking time: Baking cookies too long will make them hard. Keep an eye on them and remove when edges are set but centers are slightly soft.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Freeze cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Separate layers with parchment paper before sealing.

Reheating Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (177°C) and warm cookies for 5-7 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual cookies on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to store Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use different jams other than strawberry?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite jams or jellies, such as raspberry or grape, to customize the flavor.

How do I know when the Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are done baking?

The cookies should have set edges with some cracks on top. They will continue to firm up while cooling.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup as a replacement.

Final Thoughts

These peanut butter and jelly cookies offer a delightful twist on a classic sandwich, merging familiar flavors into a sweet treat. Their versatility allows you to customize with different jams or toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this easy recipe today and enjoy their chewy goodness!