Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies: Visual Guide to Perfect Presentation
Peanut butter and jelly cookies combine two classic flavors into a delightful treat. This family-friendly recipe marries creamy peanut butter with fruity jelly, bringing a nostalgic twist to traditional cookies. Everyone loves cookies, but when they have the added joy of peanut butter and jelly, they become irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
These peanut butter and jelly cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. The combination of peanut butter’s nuttiness and the sweetness of jelly creates a perfect balance that appeals to kids and adults alike. They are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a school lunch, a weekend treat, or a holiday dessert. Plus, their colorful presentation makes them visually appealing, ensuring they’ll be a hit at your next gathering.
How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
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)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside for now.Cream Butter and Sugars
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.Add Peanut Butter and Eggs
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.Mix in Dry Ingredients
Finally, stir in the dry ingredients until just mixed.Chill the 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).Prepare Baking Sheet
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.Create Indentations
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.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 are hot. Cool on the baking sheet for about ten minutes.Optional 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.
How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
Serve these peanut butter and jelly cookies fresh from the oven or allow them to cool completely before storing. Pair them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for the perfect afternoon snack. Additionally, consider putting together a delightful cookie platter with other homemade treats to impress your guests.
How to Store Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
To keep your peanut butter and jelly cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to one week. If you want to extend their shelf life, you can freeze them. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.
Tips to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Perfect
- Use Smooth Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter gives the best texture. Avoid natural peanut butter that separates.
- Fresh Jelly or Jam: Use your favorite flavor of jelly or jam. Strawberry is classic, but feel free to experiment with grape or raspberry.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies.
Flavor Variations
- Crunchy Variant: For added texture, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Nut Alternatives: Consider mixing in chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a sweeter twist.
- Different Jelly Flavors: Experiment with different jellies or preserves like apricot or orange marmalade for unique flavors.
Pro Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Consistent Size: Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies, ensuring consistent baking.
- Watch the Bake Time: Ovens can vary. Start checking your cookies a minute or two early to avoid over-baking.
FAQs About Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are set, and the tops are slightly cracked. They should look golden-brown, but will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but the texture may be a bit different. Make sure to stir it well before using, as it tends to separate.
How can I enhance the peanut butter flavor?
For a more intense peanut butter flavor, you can add a touch of peanut butter extract to the dough. Additionally, drizzling melted peanut butter on top just before serving can elevate the flavor.
Final Thoughts
Peanut butter and jelly cookies are a fun and delicious treat that everyone will enjoy. Their soft, chewy texture paired with the sweet and savory flavors make them a must-try recipe. Follow the steps outlined in this visual guide to create perfectly presented cookies that are sure to impress. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just for fun, these cookies will satisfy your cravings and bring a smile to your family and friends. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 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
Optional Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the unsalted butter with both sugars until smooth, about 2–3 minutes on medium speed.
- 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.
- Stir in the dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Cover the cookie dough in plastic wrap and transfer to the fridge to rest for about 30–60 minutes while preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C).
Baking
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Form balls of dough using a medium cookie scoop (about 2 tablespoons). Roll each ball in granulated sugar if desired, then place them on the baking sheet about three inches apart.
- 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.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 14–15 minutes or until edges are set and cracks appear on top.
- Gently nudge each cookie into shape using a biscuit cutter or glass while they are hot. Cool on the baking sheet for about ten minutes.
- If desired, add another teaspoon of jelly into each warm cookie's center. Drizzle melted peanut butter over them and sprinkle with chopped peanuts before transferring to a cooling rack.