Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Okay, listen up, cookie lovers—this one’s a total game-changer. Imagine everything you adore about a good ol’ PB&J sandwich—nutty, creamy, fruity goodness—all wrapped up in a soft, chewy cookie with just the right amount of sweetness. Yep, it’s nostalgic, it’s indulgent, and it’s honestly kind of magical. These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies take that childhood favorite and give it a warm, oven-baked hug.

The peanut butter gives these cookies a rich, nutty depth, while the jelly (raspberry, strawberry, grape—whatever makes your heart happy) adds a fruity burst right in the center. The result? A golden, lightly crisp edge with a soft, pillowy middle and that perfect pop of jammy goodness. Trust me, once you bite into one, you’re going to be hooked.

Bake a batch for a weekend treat, a lunchbox surprise, or just because it’s Tuesday and you deserve something sweet. These cookies are cozy, familiar, and just quirky enough to feel special.

So go ahead—preheat that oven. Let’s make some magic.

Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Great for lunchboxes, cookie swaps, or an afternoon pick-me-up. They hit the sweet spot—literally—for kids and adults alike.

Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. No fancy flours or exotic extracts here—just basics that bring big flavor.

Quick and Easy: No need to chill the dough for hours or fuss with complicated steps. You’ll be baking (and snacking) in no time.

Customizable: Go classic with grape jelly, mix it up with apricot or strawberry, or even swirl in some Nutella for a twist. You’re the boss of your batch.

Crowd-Pleasing: These cookies disappear fast. Whether you’re serving them at a bake sale or a family gathering, they’re guaranteed to spark smiles and second helpings.

Ingredients in Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Here’s the magic of these cookies—it’s made with just a handful of pantry staples, but the flavor is pure childhood nostalgia with a gourmet edge. Let’s break it down:

Creamy Peanut Butter

The heart of the cookie. Rich, nutty, and smooth, it creates a soft, chewy texture and adds that classic flavor we all know and love.

Brown Sugar

Adds a warm, molasses-y depth and helps keep the cookies irresistibly soft and moist.

Granulated Sugar

For that perfect balance of sweetness and just a bit of crispness on the edges.

Unsalted Butter

Adds richness and helps everything melt together beautifully. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.

Egg

Just one, to help bind everything and add that lovely cookie structure.

Vanilla Extract

A splash of vanilla brings everything together with a cozy, aromatic finish.

All-Purpose Flour

The sturdy base that holds it all together, while still keeping things tender.

Baking Soda

A bit of lift to keep your cookies from going flat.

Salt

A tiny pinch to balance all the sweetness and enhance the peanut flavor.

Your Favorite Jelly

The star of the show! Spoon it right into the center of each cookie before baking. Raspberry, strawberry, grape—it’s your call.

Instructions

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together the butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Make sure your baking sheet is lined and ready to go. This helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.

Assemble the Dish

Scoop out tablespoon-sized balls of dough and place them on the baking sheet. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each cookie. Spoon a bit of jelly into each well.

Cook to Perfection

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. Don’t overbake—these cookies are best when soft and tender.

Finishing Touches

Let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. The jelly will set as they cool.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm, room temp, or straight from the cookie jar. These are just as delicious the next day—if they last that long!

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

These cookies are sweet little showstoppers all on their own, but if you want to dress them up or make them part of something bigger, here’s how:

With a Glass of Cold Milk: Classic, comforting, and utterly perfect.

Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches: Spoon some vanilla or peanut butter swirl ice cream between two cookies. Next-level dessert vibes.

On a Dessert Platter: Pair with brownies, chocolate chip cookies, and mini fruit tarts for a dreamy dessert spread.

Gift Them: Stack a few in a cute box or tin with a ribbon. Homemade happiness = best gift ever.

For Breakfast (No Judgement): Hey, it’s basically toast and jelly in cookie form, right?

Additional Tips

Chill the Dough (Optional): If you want a slightly thicker cookie, chilling the dough for 30 minutes helps.

Switch Up the Jam: Try blueberry, fig, or even marmalade for a more grown-up twist.

Make It Crunchy: Use crunchy peanut butter for extra texture and bite.

Storage Tips: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 2 months—just defrost and enjoy!

Make Ahead: You can freeze unbaked dough balls and add the jelly right before baking.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A1: Absolutely! It’ll add a delightful crunch and a bit more texture.

Q2: What kind of jelly works best?
A2: Any kind you love. Grape is classic, raspberry adds a bit of tartness, and apricot is subtly sweet and sophisticated.

Q3: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A3: Yep! Just use your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Q4: Can I use almond butter or another nut butter?
A4: For sure. Almond, cashew, even sunflower seed butter all work great. Just note that the texture might vary slightly.

Q5: How do I keep the cookies soft?
A5: Don’t overbake and store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them extra soft.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: You bet! Just use two baking sheets and rotate them halfway through baking for even results.

Q7: What’s the best way to reheat them?
A7: A quick zap in the microwave (10–15 seconds) makes them warm and gooey again.

Q8: Can I freeze the dough?
A8: Yes! Scoop dough balls onto a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen—just add a minute or two.

Q9: Can kids help with this recipe?
A9: 100%! They’ll love making the thumbprints and adding the jelly. Just maybe prep the oven parts yourself.

Q10: Are these good for gifting?
A10: Totally! They look adorable, hold up well, and taste like a warm hug.

Conclusion

There you have it—Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies that are as fun to make as they are to eat. They’re soft, sweet, and packed with that comforting, nostalgic flavor that brings you right back to childhood…but with a grown-up, gourmet twist. Whether you’re baking for a crowd, a cozy night in, or just because you’re craving something delightfully different, these cookies are the perfect treat.

So go ahead—grab that mixing bowl, preheat your oven, and get ready to fall head over heels for this sweet little cookie creation. Once you try them, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. And hey, if you sneak a second (or third), don’t worry—I won’t tell.

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