Get ready to experience a nostalgic twist on the classic childhood sandwich transformed into the most irresistible cookies you'll ever taste! These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies aren't just a treat; they're a delightful journey back to memories of lunch boxes and after-school snacks. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you'll create a batch of cookies that will have everyone begging for more. Imagine the perfect blend of creamy peanut butter, sweet jelly, and a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that will make these cookies an instant family favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup jelly or jam of choice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well blended and smooth.
- Add the large egg to the peanut butter mixture. Beat with a hand mixer or whisk until the egg is fully incorporated and the mixture becomes slightly fluffy.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently press down on each cookie ball with the back of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern and slightly flattening the cookies.
- Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to create a small well or indent in the center of each cookie.
- Carefully spoon a small amount of jelly or jam into the center of each cookie, filling the indent without overflowing.
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes to firm up.
- Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. The jelly will set as the cookies cool.
- Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- Choose a high-quality, creamy peanut butter for the smoothest texture. Avoid natural or separated peanut butters that might make the dough too oily.
- For the best jelly center, use a thick jam or preserves that won't run too much during baking. Strawberry, raspberry, or grape jellies work wonderfully.
- Make sure your egg is at room temperature to ensure better mixing and a more uniform cookie texture.
- Don't overmix the dough - just blend until ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Use a fork with a gentle touch when creating the crisscross pattern to prevent the cookies from cracking.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely on the wire rack to let the jelly set and achieve the perfect consistency.
- For extra richness, you can add a pinch of salt to enhance the peanut butter flavor.
- Store cookies in a single layer to prevent the jelly centers from sticking together.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 10mg
