Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are a delicious treat that combines two classic flavors into one delightful dessert. These cookies evoke nostalgia with every bite – the creamy richness of peanut butter perfectly balanced by the sweet, fruity burst of jelly. They’re incredibly easy to make, whisking you back to simpler times, making them an ideal choice for family gatherings or a cozy afternoon snack. Follow this step-by-step recipe, and you’ll have soft, chewy cookies that are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies? They require minimal prep with only a few ingredients yet satisfy your cravings for something comforting and sweet. These cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for those busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The appeal lies in their simplicity: no special baking skills needed, just a few pantry staples transformed into a beloved treat. Expect smiles all around as you share these nostalgic delights that remind us of childhood lunches.

Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter: The star ingredient here, creamy peanut butter adds a nutty richness.

1 cup sugar: Sweet and crystalline, sugar will help create the perfect texture and sweetness.

1 egg: Acts as a binding agent, ensuring your cookies remain soft and chewy.

1/2 tsp vanilla extract: This aromatic addition enhances the flavor, bringing a comforting warmth.

1/4 tsp salt: Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enrich the peanut butter flavor.

1/4 cup jelly or jam (any flavor): Choose your favorite fruity spread; its juicy sweetness delivers that classic PB&J taste.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures optimal baking conditions for your cookies.
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1 cup of sugar, 1 egg, 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous.
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in size, and place them on a lined baking sheet. This dough is delightfully sticky, so don’t be afraid to dust your hands with a little sugar for easy handling.
Use a fork to gently press down on each ball, creating a criss-cross pattern that not only looks adorable but also helps the cookies bake evenly.
Add a little dollop of your favorite jelly in the center of each cookie. This juicy addition will melt lightly into the cookie as they bake, creating that luscious, gooey center.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. The smell should fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma!
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This step is crucial, as the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.

Tips & Tricks

For the best results, let your peanut butter come to room temperature before mixing to ensure a smoother texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different flavors of jelly or jam – strawberry, grape, or even raspberry can bring a new twist. Additionally, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for extra texture.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are wonderful on their own, but they also shine when paired with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. They’re perfect for school lunches, as they are a nostalgic nod to the classic sandwich. Consider serving them at birthday parties or family gatherings for a sweet treat everyone will love.

Nutritional Information

Each cookie is approximately 120 calories, depending on size. They contain around 5 grams of protein and minimal fiber due to the simplicity of the ingredients. Enjoy these cookies in moderation, remembering that balance is key to a healthy diet while still indulging your sweet tooth!

Storing Tips & Variations

To store your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, these cookies can be frozen for up to three months. Simply layer them with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy them again, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for that freshly-baked warmth. You can also experiment by adding oats, switching to crunchy peanut butter, or using almond butter for a different flavor.

Conclusion

We encourage you to try making these delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies and share your experiences in the comments! They are a simple, satisfying treat that brings a touch of nostalgia to any occasion. Whether you’re baking with kids or enjoying a quiet moment for yourself, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make the recipe your own!

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter will give your cookies a delightful texture, adding extra little bursts of nutty flavor.
What is the best type of jelly to use?
The best jelly is the one you enjoy most! Strawberry, grape, and raspberry are popular choices that pair wonderfully with peanut butter.
Can I make these cookies without an egg?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water, mixed and let sit for a few minutes) for a vegan option.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free flour or a gluten-free baking mix as a substitute to maintain the same texture without gluten.
How do I know when my cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be lightly golden at the edges but soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool, so don’t overbake them!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

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Author: eliana-quinn
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Delicious cookies combining creamy peanut butter with sweet jelly for a delightful treat.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Combine peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, and salt in a mixing bowl.
Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in size, and place them on a lined baking sheet.
Press down on each ball with a fork to create a criss-cross pattern.
Add a dollop of jelly in the center of each cookie.
Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
Remove from the oven and cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.

Notes

Let peanut butter come to room temperature for a smoother texture. Experiment with different jelly flavors and add chocolate chips or nuts for variation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American