Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies: A Nostalgic Treat with a Gourmet Twist

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are the perfect marriage of two beloved flavors: the nutty richness of peanut butter and the fruity sweetness of jam. These soft and tender cookies evoke childhood memories of classic PB&J sandwiches while offering a gourmet touch that makes them ideal for any occasion. With no chilling required, you can whip up these cookies in under 30 minutes, making them a go-to recipe for spontaneous baking sessions or last-minute cravings.

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Imagine biting into a warm cookie fresh out of the oven. The creamy peanut butter base melts in your mouth, while the jam center adds a burst of tangy sweetness, creating a delightful contrast. These cookies are a treat for the senses, from their inviting aroma to the satisfying texture of the chopped peanuts and drizzled peanut butter garnish. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply to indulge yourself, these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are sure to impress.

Ingredients for Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

To ensure the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a clear breakdown:

• Butter (½ cup, 1 stick): Provides richness and contributes to the tender texture of the cookies.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup): Adds sweetness and helps achieve a slightly crisp exterior.
• Brown Sugar (¼ cup, packed): Offers a deeper, caramel-like sweetness and keeps the cookies soft.
• Creamy Peanut Butter (1 cup): The star of the show, lending the cookies their signature nutty flavor. Brands like Jif work well.
• Large Egg (1): Acts as a binding agent, ensuring the cookies hold together.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• All-Purpose Flour (1½ cups, spooned and leveled): Provides structure to the cookies.
• Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise slightly.
• Kosher Salt (¼ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• Seedless Jam (½ cup): Choose your favorite jam (strawberry, grape, or raspberry) for the filling.
• Optional Garnishes: More jam, melted peanut butter, and chopped peanuts for a visually appealing finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat the butter until smooth and creamy. Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, and continue beating until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is well combined.
3. Incorporate Peanut Butter, Egg, and Vanilla: Add the peanut butter to the creamed mixture and beat until fully combined. Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, ensuring the batter is smooth and uniform.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can result in tough cookies.
5. Shape the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into 1½-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Flatten the Cookies: Dip a fork into sugar or flour to prevent sticking, then press down on each dough ball to flatten it slightly. Rotate the fork 90 degrees and press again to create a crisscross pattern.
7. Add the Jam: Stir the jam in a small bowl to remove any lumps, making it easier to spoon onto the cookies. Place about 1 teaspoon of jam in the center of each cookie, ensuring it doesn’t spill over the edges.
8. Bake: Place the cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 13–15 minutes. Look for slightly golden edges as a sign that they’re done. Avoid underbaking, as the jam adds moisture and the cookies need to set properly.
9. Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5–10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy at least one warm with a glass of milk!
10. Optional Garnishes: For added flair, drizzle melted peanut butter over the cookies or sprinkle chopped peanuts on top. A small dollop of jam in the center after baking can also enhance the presentation.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

• Jam Selection: Opt for seedless jam for a smooth filling. Classic choices like strawberry, grape, or raspberry work beautifully, but you can experiment with unique flavors like apricot or mixed berry.
• Peanut Butter Choice: Creamy peanut butter is recommended for a uniform texture, but crunchy peanut butter can be used for added texture.
• Freezing the Dough: These cookies freeze exceptionally well. Shape and flatten the dough before freezing to save time when baking later. Add jam just before baking.
• Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate them to maintain freshness.

Variations to Try

• Nut-Free Option: Substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or almond butter for a different flavor profile.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add a few chocolate chips to the dough or drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies as a garnish.
• Holiday Twist: Use cranberry jam and sprinkle crushed pistachios for a festive touch.

The Joy of Baking and Sharing

Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are more than just a treat—they’re a nostalgic nod to simpler times, reimagined in cookie form. The balance of creamy, nutty peanut butter and sweet, fruity jam makes them universally appealing, while the soft and tender texture is downright irresistible. Baking these cookies is an experience in itself, filling your home with the comforting aroma of peanut butter and warm sugar.

Perfect for sharing with loved ones, these cookies are a delightful addition to holiday platters, bake sales, or casual gatherings. Their classic flavor combination, paired with a touch of creativity, ensures they’ll be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable, forgiving, and immensely rewarding. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies that are sure to bring smiles and satisfaction.