There’s something absolutely magical about the combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet grape jelly nestled within a soft, chewy cookie. These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are a delightful twist on a childhood favorite, inviting you to savor the nostalgia with every indulgent bite.
Perfectly sweet, satisfyingly chewy, and with just a hint of salty goodness, these cookies are not only easy to whip up but also offer a comforting reminiscence of simpler times. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or a delightful dessert to share, this recipe is worth every moment spent in the kitchen.
Do you remember the first time you bit into a peanut butter and jelly sandwich? That unmistakable blend of salty and sweet? Now, imagine that paired with the warm, gooey goodness of fresh-baked cookies. What could be better than that?
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll adore these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies because they epitomize comfort food. Here are some reasons to bake them:
Easy Prep: With simple ingredients you probably already have around, these cookies can be made in no time.
Universal Appeal: Perfectly suited for kids and adults alike, they bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Minimal Ingredients: You won’t need a long list of fancy ingredients to create this treat.
Irresistibly Delicious: The delectable combination of peanut butter and jelly creates a flavor profile that is just to die for.
Ingredients
To make these sinfully sweet Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies, gather the following ingredients:
1 stick unsalted butter: Adds rich creaminess that makes each cookie melt in your mouth.
1/2 cup white granulated sugar: For that classic sweetness, balancing the other flavors perfectly.
1/2 cup brown sugar: This provides a slight molasses flavor and moisture, making your cookies chewy.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 cup creamy peanut butter: The star of the show; smooth and luscious, it offers a delectable nutty taste.
1 egg: This binds everything together, adding a light and fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of warmth and sweetness that compliments the peanut butter.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the dough, creating structure and texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise, ensuring they are soft and airy.
1/2 cup grape jelly: Tangy and sweet, it’s the cherry on top of this nostalgic dessert.
These ingredients combine to create cookies that are not just treats, but pure bliss.
Timing
With just 20 minutes from start to finish — including baking — these cookies strike the perfect balance between fast and indulgent. You’ll be enjoying warm, gooey cookies in as little time as it takes to set the table!
Step-by-Step
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line 1-2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Position your oven rack in the center.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the room temperature butter, white sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add the peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed butter mixture. Whisk or beat on medium speed until thoroughly combined and smooth.
Add the flour and baking soda to the wet ingredients and fold until no dry spots remain — magical scents will begin to envelop your kitchen!
Using a 2-inch cookie scoop, portion the dough into even balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each.
Press an indentation into the center of each cookie dough ball with the back of your scoop or your thumb, making way for that luscious jelly.
Fill each indentation with approximately 1 teaspoon of jelly, letting that sweetness spill over like a hug from your childhood.
Bake for about 13 minutes until the edges are lightly golden. Your kitchen will be filled with tantalizing aromas, tempting your palate.
Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the finishing touch, heat additional creamy peanut butter in the microwave for 30 seconds, then stir and drizzle over the jelly centers of each cookie. The sight of that warm peanut butter cascading over the jelly is simply irresistible!
Nutritional Information
These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies serve up an indulgent treat at around 150 calories per cookie. It’s okay to indulge occasionally—after all, a little sweetness is good for the soul!
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using natural peanut butter and a low-sugar grape jelly. For dairy-free options, swap the butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative, ensuring everyone can share in the joy.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful cookies pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of cold milk. They’re perfect for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or simply a rainy day treat.
Common Mistakes
Overbaking: Keep a close eye on them; you want soft and chewy, not hard and crunchy!
Texture Issues: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies—always measure accurately.
Messy Jelly Centers: If they overflow, simply use a knife to gently trim them, keeping your presentation neat.
Storing Tips
These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For long-term storage, freeze them — simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy their gooey goodness again.
Tempted to Bake It ASAP?
Something magical happens when you blend two much-loved flavors into one irresistible cookie. The combination of peanut butter and jelly not only brings joy but connects you to fond memories of childhood.
So why wait? Bake a batch of these scrumptious Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies today, and treat yourself to a nostalgic delight that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter gives a delightful texture to the cookies.
Can I use a different type of jelly?
Absolutely! Feel free to try strawberry, raspberry, or any flavor of your choice.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure that your butter is at room temperature, not melted, to maintain proper structure.
How do I know when my cookies are done?
Look for lightly golden edges; the middles should still look slightly underbaked.
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Yes! Chill the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Indulge in the nostalgia and flavor of these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies. They’re a treat worth sharing!
