Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies (Soft and Chewy Recipe) – Olives + Thyme

How to make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

Start by gathering all your ingredients for this delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies recipe. You will need:

Ingredients

• 1 cup peanut butter
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup strawberry jam
• 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for topping)
• Additional sugar (for rolling)

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started on making these soft and chewy cookies!

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix the ingredients until the mixture is smooth.
3. Roll the dough into small balls. Once you have rolled the balls, coat each one in sugar for a sweet touch.
4. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
6. Fill the indentation with a small amount of strawberry jam. Don’t be shy; a little extra jam goes a long way!
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. You want the edges to be lightly golden.
8. Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cookies cool slightly on the baking sheet.
9. To add a final touch, drizzle a bit of extra peanut butter on the cookies and sprinkle with chopped peanuts before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are not just cookies; they are a taste of childhood nostalgia. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly creates a wonderful balance of flavors. The chewy texture will have you coming back for more. Plus, they are easy to make, and you probably have most of the ingredients at home.

Nutritional Benefits

Peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats. It can help you feel full and satisfied. The nuts also provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Strawberry jam adds a touch of sweetness and flavor, while the sugar balances the taste. Although treats like these should be enjoyed in moderation, they can be a delightful part of your dessert rotation.

What to Serve With Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

These cookies can be enjoyed on their own, but they pair well with several other treats. Here are some ideas:

• A cold glass of milk, almond milk, or even oat milk.
• A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream as an extra special dessert.
• Fresh fruit like banana slices or strawberries for a refreshing side.
• Coffee or tea for an afternoon snack.

How to Store Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to five days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving. You can also freeze the dough before baking for a quick treat later. Just roll the dough into balls, freeze them, and then bake them straight from the freezer—just add a minute or two to the baking time.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

• Be Gentle with the Dough: Don’t overmix. Just mix until everything is combined.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure the peanut butter is fresh for the best flavor.
• Measuring Sugar Correctly: Use the proper measuring cups for dry ingredients to avoid adding too much or too little sugar.
• Experiment with Jams: While strawberry jam is traditional, you can try other flavors like raspberry or grape for a twist!
• Watch Baking Time: Ovens can vary; keep an eye on the cookies to avoid overbaking.

Variations

There are plenty of ways to change up this classic recipe. Here are a few suggestions:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey flavor.
• Use Different Nut Butters: Almond butter or cashew butter can be great substitutes if you’re looking for variety.
• Try Different Jams: As mentioned, use other jams like blackberry or apricot for an exciting twist.

FAQs

1. Can I use creamy or crunchy peanut butter?
Yes! You can use either creamy or crunchy peanut butter depending on your texture preference. Just keep in mind that crunchy peanut butter will add a bit of crunch.

2. How long can I store these cookies?
You can store the cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to five days. They can also be refrigerated for longer freshness.

3. Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the rolled dough balls. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag and bake them directly from the freezer; just make sure to add a couple of minutes to the baking time.

In conclusion, these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies are not just a delicious treat; they’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and you may find it becomes a new family favorite!