Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

There’s something so nostalgic and delightful about a Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe that just takes you right back to those carefree childhood days, but with a grown-up twist! I love how these cookies balance the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet, fruity surprise of jelly tucked right inside. They’re perfect any time you crave a cozy, comforting treat that’s a little more special than your usual cookie.

Whenever I make this Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe, it’s usually for a weekend afternoon pick-me-up or to share with friends at a casual get-together. What makes this recipe truly worth trying is the way it delivers that iconic PB&J flavor in a portable, perfectly chewy cookie form – no sandwich construction required. Plus, it’s easier than you think, and I’m here to walk you through it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe works together to create a cookie that’s soft, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. When shopping, I like to pick creamy peanut butter without added sugar to keep the sweetness just right, and the strawberry jam can be swapped out for your favorite flavor if you want a twist.

• Creamy peanut butter: Stick with creamy for a smooth texture that blends easily into the dough and gives that classic PB taste.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a slight crunch on the cookie exterior.
• Brown sugar: Brings moisture and a subtle caramel note that makes the cookies chewy.
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter lends richness and tender crumb to the cookies.
• Eggs: Help bind everything while adding moisture and richness.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a warm, fragrant note.
• Baking soda and baking powder: Work together to give the cookies a nice rise and soft texture.
• Salt: A pinch balances out the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
• All-purpose flour: Provides structure so the cookies hold their shape but stay tender.
• Strawberry jam: The sweet and tangy filling that gives these cookies their signature PB&J twist.

Variations

I love making this Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe my own by playing around with different jams or peanut butter types. Feel free to tweak it to fit your taste or dietary needs – the base recipe is forgiving and fun!

• Use chunky peanut butter: For a little crunch, swap creamy for chunky – I like this for extra texture contrast in the cookie.
• Try different jam flavors: Raspberry, blueberry, or even marmalade can change things up deliciously.
• Make it vegan: Substitute dairy-free butter and a flax egg to make a vegan-friendly version.
• Healthier twist: Use natural peanut butter without added sugar and reduce refined sugar, adding a touch of honey or maple syrup instead.
• Add mix-ins: Throw in a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts for an indulgent addition.

How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars Together

Start by beating the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes on medium speed if you’re using a stand mixer—or a bit longer by hand. This step is key because it helps trap air in the dough, making your cookies soft and tender rather than dense.

Step 2: Add the Peanut Butter, Eggs, and Vanilla

Next, mix in the creamy peanut butter until combined, then beat in the eggs one at a time, and finally add the vanilla extract. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature—that really helps everything emulsify smoothly. This is where the dough starts smelling irresistibly peanut buttery, which is the best motivation to keep going!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix Into Wet

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture, mixing on low speed just until everything comes together—overmixing can make the cookies tough, so keep it gentle here. The dough will be soft but hold together well, perfect for shaping.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies with Jam Filling

This is the fun part! Scoop about one tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your hand. Add a small dollop of strawberry jam right in the center, then cover it with another flattened tablespoon of dough, sealing the edges well so no jam leaks during baking. I’ve learned the hard way that sealing the edges tightly keeps the filling neat and prevents sticky messes in the oven.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Place the assembled cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some room between them, and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes. You want them to be just set and lightly golden around the edges. Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes—they’ll firm up as they cool—and then transfer them to a wire rack. That jam center should be gooey and irresistible!

How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I like to drizzle a little extra melted peanut butter on top of the cooled cookies for an elegant finish that also amps up the peanut flavor. Sometimes, a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few crushed peanuts adds a nice crunch and visual appeal that guests always appreciate.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk or a warm cup of chai tea—the perfect combo for a cozy afternoon treat. If serving at a gathering, try laying them out alongside fresh fruit or simple vanilla ice cream for a sweet snack spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, arranging these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe treats in a layered jar or cookie tower creates a fun, eye-catching display. I’ve also wrapped individual cookies in cute parchment paper and tied with twine for gifting—they’re always a hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature and they stay soft and delicious for up to five days. To keep that jam filling fresh, I avoid refrigeration unless it’s very warm where I live, because the cookies can dry out in the fridge.

Freezing

This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe freezes wonderfully! I like to freeze them individually on a tray first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. That way, you can grab one or two at a time without thawing the whole batch. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To revive the soft texture and the gooey jam inside, I pop a cookie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm it in a low oven for a few minutes. This little trick makes leftovers taste freshly baked, if not better!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe has a special place in my heart because it brings the comfort of a childhood classic into a new form that’s perfect for sharing anytime. I encourage you to give it a try—whether you make it for yourself, family, or friends, these cookies always bring smiles and a little bit of joy. Plus, once you’ve mastered this recipe, you might find yourself dreaming up your own creative versions (and I can’t wait to hear about them)!

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