If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the nostalgic flavors of childhood into an irresistible treat, then this Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Picture soft, chewy peanut butter cookies lovingly cradling a dollop of luscious fruit jelly right in the center, creating a perfect bite that balances salty, sweet, and fruity all at once. These cookies are simple to make yet packed with so much cozy flavor, they’re guaranteed to bring a smile to your face and maybe spark a few fun memories along the way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a key role in crafting the tender texture and classic flavors you’ll adore. From the creamy peanut butter giving richness to the tangy burst of your favorite jelly, every component works together like a symphony of taste.
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show, lending moistness and that unmistakable nutty flavor.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the perfect texture for your cookie dough.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and keeps the cookies tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts the overall flavor with a subtle, warm aroma.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough to stay soft and chewy.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and highlights the peanut butter’s richness.
- 1/4 cup fruit jelly or jam: Use your favorite flavor like strawberry, grape, or raspberry to add that classic jelly surprise.
How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to ensure your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick. This little prep step makes cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, stir together the peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. This mixture will come together into a thick, sticky dough that’s rich and inviting. Don’t worry if it seems dense—that’s exactly what makes for soft cookies.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Scoop generous tablespoons of dough and roll each into a ball. Place them spaced about 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to give them room to spread while baking.
Step 4: Create Wells for Jelly
Using the back of a spoon or a fork, gently press the center of each dough ball to form a small well—like a tiny nest for that sweet jelly surprise!
Step 5: Add the Jelly
Spoon about half a teaspoon of your chosen jelly or jam into each well. This step adds the signature burst of fruity flavor that truly makes these cookies unforgettable. Just be careful not to overfill so the jelly stays put as they bake.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop your tray into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the edges become beautifully golden but the centers remain soft. These cookies firm up slightly as they cool but keep that delightful chewiness you want in every bite.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool right on the baking sheet for five minutes to settle, then transfer them to a wire rack so they cool completely. This little pause ensures they hold their shape while you anticipate that first amazing bite.
How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sugar or chopped peanuts on top before baking to add a subtle crunch and a little sparkle. A light dusting of powdered sugar after cooling can also elevate their appearance, making them party-ready in seconds.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk for a classic combo or a warm cup of tea to balance the sweet and nutty flavors. For a fun twist, serve alongside vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these cookies into a delightful gift by stacking them in a pretty box with torn parchment paper and a colorful ribbon. You can also gently warm them and serve with a side of fresh berries for an elegant snack or brunch treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and perfectly chewy for up to a week—ready for whenever a craving strikes.
Freezing
If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them straight into a preheated oven—no need to thaw!
Reheating
To revive any leftover cookies, warm them in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or a few minutes in a low oven. This brings back that fresh-baked softness and gently melts the jelly for an indulgent treat.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture to your cookies, giving a pleasant nutty crunch alongside the soft dough.
What kind of jelly works best for this recipe?
Any fruit jelly or jam you love will work beautifully, but strawberry, grape, and raspberry are classics that complement peanut butter perfectly. Feel free to get creative with flavors like blueberry or apricot!
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
This particular recipe doesn’t call for flour, so it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your peanut butter and jelly are free from gluten-containing additives. Always check labels to be safe.
Why do I need baking soda in peanut butter cookies?
Baking soda helps create a tender texture by slightly leavening the cookies and balancing the acidity of some ingredients, so your cookies aren’t too dense.
How do I prevent the jelly from spilling over while baking?
Use only a small amount—about half a teaspoon—and create a well in the dough to hold the jelly in place. Avoid overfilling and gently press the jelly so it nestles inside the dough well.
Final Thoughts
Making this Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe is like opening a warm, edible hug from the past, filled with sweet nostalgia and comforting flavors. It’s an effortless, fun way to enjoy one of the most beloved flavor pairings in cookie form. So grab your ingredients, turn on your oven, and treat yourself to a batch—they just might become your new favorite go-to recipe!
Print
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies combine the classic flavors of creamy peanut butter and sweet fruit jelly in a soft, chewy cookie. Perfect for a nostalgic treat, each cookie features a luscious dollop of your favorite jam nestled in the center, offering a delightful twist on traditional peanut butter cookies.
Ingredients
Cookies
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Filling
- 1/4 cup fruit jelly or jam (strawberry, grape, raspberry, or your favorite flavor)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix thoroughly until the dough is smooth, thick, and sticky.
- Shape the Cookies: Using about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie, roll the dough into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet spaced approximately 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading.
- Create the Jelly Wells: Gently press the back of a spoon or fork into the center of each dough ball to form a small well, being careful not to break the dough through.
- Add the Jelly: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of your chosen jelly or jam into each well. Avoid overfilling to prevent spilling during baking.
- Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cookie edges begin to turn a golden brown. The centers will stay soft and chewy after cooling.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use creamy peanut butter rather than chunky to ensure a smoother dough texture.
- You can substitute the jelly with your favorite jam flavor for a personalized twist.
- To make these cookies vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg and confirm your jam is free of animal products.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup.
