Name: Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies That Bring Back Childhood Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Ingredients: 1 stick Unsalted Butter (Can use salted butter for added flavor.); 1 cup Creamy Natural Peanut Butter (Natural peanut butter is recommended.); 3/4 cup Light Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness and moisture.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Enhances browning.); 2 1/4 cups Bleached All-Purpose Flour (Avoid unbleached flour.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt; 2 large Eggs (At room temperature.); 3 tablespoons Milk (Can substitute with almond milk.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Adjust amount as per preference.); 1 cup Strawberry Jam (Can substitute with raspberry or grape jam.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the comforting aroma of peanut butter filled the air, whisking me back to carefree childhood afternoons. There’s something incredibly satisfying about baking, and these Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies are the perfect homage to that classic sandwich we all know and love. This quick and easy recipe requires no mixer at all, making it ideal for those spontaneous baking sessions that brighten your day. Picture soft, chewy cookies encasing a gooey dollop of strawberry jam—each bite a delicious reminder of simpler times. Not only are these treats a nostalgic delight, but they also bring a satisfying crunch to any gathering, making them a great option for dessert tables or after-school snacks. Ready to dive into this delightful baking adventure with me? Let’s start making some sweet memories!

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Why are Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies irresistible?

Nostalgic Delight: These cookies evoke cherished childhood memories of lunchboxes and afternoon snacks.

No Mixer Needed: Prepare this delicious treat effortlessly in just one bowl for minimal cleanup.

Deliciously Gooey Center: Enjoy the delightful surprise of warm strawberry jam melting in every bite.

Quick and Easy: Whip these up in no time, perfect for unexpected guests or weekday treats.

Versatile Choices: Switch up the jam flavor or try different nut butters for a personalized spin!

Whether you’re revisiting childhood flavors or introducing them to the next generation, these cookies, paired with a glass of milk, are sure to steal the spotlight! If you’re a fan of peanut butter, check out my Peanut Butter Cookies or indulge in Peanut Butter Reeses for another scrumptious treat.

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookies

Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture. Use salted butter for added flavor if desired.
Creamy Natural Peanut Butter – Central flavor component, ensuring a strong peanut taste. Natural peanut butter is recommended for the best flavor.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; helps create a chewy texture.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookie and enhances browning. Alternate with coconut sugar for a less sweet option.
Bleached All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; recommended to avoid unbleached flour, which may result in dryness.
Baking Soda – Leavening agent that helps cookies rise slightly.
Baking Powder – Adds fluffiness to the cookie structure.
Fine Sea Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
Large Eggs (at room temperature) – Binds ingredients together and helps with rising. Can replace with flax eggs for a vegan option.
Milk – Adds moisture; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth. Adjust amount for personal preference.
Strawberry Jam – Filling that adds sweetness and a fruity burst; can be substituted with raspberry or grape jam for your ideal peanut butter & jelly cookies.

These delightful cookies are not only quick and easy to make but also capture the heartwarming essence of a cherished favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare two baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This helps prevent the cookies from sticking and ensures even baking. The warm, inviting aroma of your preheating oven will set the perfect tone for your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies.

Step 2: Melt the Butter
In a microwave-safe bowl, add one stick of unsalted butter. Microwave it in 20-second intervals, stirring between each session, until fully melted. The butter should be warm but not bubbling; this will help you easily blend it with the other ingredients in the next step, enhancing the rich flavor of your cookies.

Step 3: Combine Peanut Butter and Sugars
Whisk the creamy natural peanut butter into the melted butter until smooth and well combined. Next, add both the light brown sugar and granulated sugar, mixing vigorously until no sugar granules remain. The mixture will be glossy and thick, indicative of a delightful base for your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies.

Step 4: Add the Dry Ingredients
Now, introduce the bleached all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and fine sea salt to the wet mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the dry ingredients in until just combined; be careful not to overmix. Your dough should be soft and slightly sticky, ready for creating those delicious cookie shapes.

Step 5: Form the Cookie Dough Balls
Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the cookie dough and roll it into smooth balls between your palms. Once shaped, make a well in the center of each ball using your thumb, ensuring it’s deep enough to hold a generous scoop of jam, which will create that iconic Peanut Butter & Jelly flavor.

Step 6: Fill with Jam
Spoon about one teaspoon of strawberry jam into the well of each cookie dough ball, allowing it to fill the space without spilling over. Gently fold the edges of the dough over the jam to encase it fully and reshape into a ball if needed. This step ensures each cookie has a tasty surprise when bitten into.

Step 7: Arrange on Baking Sheets
Place the assembled dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, jam side up, making sure to space them about 3 inches apart. This allows for proper expansion while baking, ensuring your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies won’t merge into each other, creating a delightful treat with room to grow.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-14 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden around the edges while remaining slightly soft in the center. This balance results in the perfect soft and chewy texture with a gooey finish.

Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying
Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This allows them to set before transferring to a cooling rack. The warm, intoxicating aroma of Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their turn to enjoy these nostalgic treats!

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies

Airtight Container: Store your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture.

Refrigeration: If you need them to last a bit longer, refrigerate the cookies for up to a week, but be aware they may become firmer.

Freezing: For long-term storage, freeze the assembled cookie dough on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight bag. These can be stored for up to one month.

Thawing: When ready to bake, simply thaw the frozen cookie dough in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed for fresh, warm treats!

Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies; let your taste buds lead the way!

Nut Butter Swap: Substitute almond or cashew butter for a unique flavor twist. Each offers a rich taste that transforms the classic cookie in delightful ways.
Jam Varieties: Experiment with different jams, like blueberry or apricot, for a sweet surprise in every bite. This small change can take your cookie experience from familiar to extraordinary!
Crunchy Texture: Mix in some crushed nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and an exciting texture. It contrasts beautifully with the gooey jam center and caters to nut lovers!
Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk in place of regular milk for a dairy-free version. This easy swap maintains moisture without sacrificing flavor.
Flour Alternatives: Try using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option; it allows everyone to join in on the fun without any dietary worries. Just ensure it’s a blend suitable for baking!
Sugar Reduce: Substitute coconut sugar for granulated sugar to lower sweetness while still achieving that lovely golden crust. It gives a hint of caramel flavor, perfect for balanced taste.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for an extra layer of warmth and flavor. It elevates the cookies from delightful to downright charming!
Stuffed Cookies: For a fun twist, create a sandwich with two cookies and a layer of jam in the middle. It brings a playful element to this nostalgic treat, perfect for sharing!

These variations allow you to tailor these cookies to your family’s tastes. While you’re adding your spin, consider pairing these treats with some warm Garlic Butter Chicken for a deliciously satisfying meal or trying out my Honey Butter Cornbread to complete your gathering!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies

Natural Peanut Butter:
Use natural peanut butter for a richer flavor; blend before measuring to avoid oily pockets in your dough.

Measure Flour Correctly:
Accurate flour measurement is essential; spoon it into the measuring cup and level off. This will prevent dry, crumbly cookies.

Chill Cookie Dough:
If you prefer thicker cookies, chill your shaped dough balls in the fridge for up to 48 hours before baking.

Use a Cookie Cutter:
If your cookies don’t come out evenly shaped, use a round cookie cutter immediately after baking to reshape them while they’re still warm.

Try Different Jams:
Feel free to experiment with various jam flavors for your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies, like raspberry or grape, for a personal touch!

Make Ahead Options

These Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following step 5, forming the dough balls and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the cookies’ delightful texture, remember to keep them separated, as they may stick together. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill them with jam as indicated in step 6, arrange them on a baking sheet, and bake straight from the fridge at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-14 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, gooey treats with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies

There’s nothing quite like the warm, nostalgic vibes of freshly baked cookies, and pairing them just right can elevate your baking adventure.

Cold Glass of Milk: The classic choice, balancing sweetness and enhancing the rich flavors while adding a nostalgic touch.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the chewy texture of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast that everyone will love.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing, vibrant note and can help cut through the richness of the cookies. Think strawberries, blueberries, and bananas for a colorful mix!
Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in the ultimate treat by pairing these cookies with a thick, frosty chocolate milkshake, perfect for dipping or enjoying side by side.
Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of nutty trail mix delivers crunch and healthy energy to balance the sweetness of the cookies, making them an excellent choice for snack time.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs beautifully, enhancing the flavors in the cookies while providing a comforting warmth, perfect for enjoying during quiet moments.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layering cookies with yogurt, berries, and granola creates a tempting parfait that offers a delightful textural blend—great for breakfast or dessert!
Peanut Butter Smoothie: For a twist, blend up a peanut butter smoothie with banana and almond milk for a refreshing drink that echoes the cookie flavors.
Chocolate Drizzle: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over the cookies adds a rich finish and enticing visual appeal, appealing to all chocolate lovers!

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Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies, opt for natural peanut butter that is creamy and not overly oily. Look for a brand with minimal ingredients—just peanuts and salt. Ensure your butter is fresh and unsalted for balanced flavor. As for the jam, choose a high-quality strawberry jam for a rich, fruity burst.

How should I store leftover Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, they may soften over time. If you want to prolong their freshness, refrigerate them for up to a week, though they might become firmer. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies?
Yes, you can! Freeze the assembled cookie dough on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer it to an airtight bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed for freshly baked cookies!

My cookies came out uneven; what can I do?
Very! If your cookies turn out uneven, don’t worry. You can use a round cookie cutter to gently reshape them immediately after they come out of the oven while they’re still warm. This method allows you to mold them back into perfect circles, ensuring delightful presentation without sacrificing taste!

Are these Peanut Butter & Jelly Cookies suitable for special diets?
Absolutely! You can make these cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Additionally, consider using flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as an egg substitute for a vegan version. Just be sure to check your jam for any allergens, and you’re good to go!