PB&J Stuffed Cookies
Delight in the nostalgia of PB&J Stuffed Cookies that perfectly blend the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly into a warm, soft cookie. These cookies are ideal for various occasions, from family gatherings to school events, making them a beloved treat for both kids and adults. With their melty jelly center and rich peanut butter dough, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Nostalgic Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and jelly brings back childhood memories, making each bite comforting and familiar.
- Versatile Fillings: You can customize the jelly flavor based on your preference—grape, strawberry, or even raspberry!
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make excellent gifts or treats for parties, ensuring everyone enjoys them.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast between the soft cookie exterior and gooey jelly filling.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking your PB&J Stuffed Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cookie scoop or spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for mixing your ingredients thoroughly.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
- Parchment paper: This helps prevent cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup easier.
Ingredients
Delicious Peanut Butter and Jelly Stuffed Cookies featuring a soft peanut butter cookie dough and a sweet jelly filling. A fun, nostalgic treat!
For the Cookie Dough
- Creamy peanut butter: 1 cup
- Unsalted butter, softened: 1/2 cup
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
- Brown sugar, packed: 1/2 cup
- Egg: 1 large
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
For the Dry Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups
- Baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon
- Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
For the Filling
- Grape or strawberry jelly (or preferred flavor): 1/2 cup
How to Make PB&J Stuffed Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures even baking without sticking.
Step 2: Cream Together Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together:
1. Creamy peanut butter
2. Unsalted butter
3. Granulated sugar
4. Brown sugar
Mix until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add:
– Egg
– Vanilla extract
Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
– All-purpose flour
– Baking powder
– Baking soda
– Salt
Gradually add this mixture to your wet ingredients.
Step 5: Form Cookie Discs
Scoop out about 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten into discs. Place half of these discs onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Add Jelly Filling
In the center of each disc, place about 1 teaspoon of jelly.
Step 7: Seal Cookies
Top each filled disc with another piece of dough. Press edges firmly to seal them together. Use a fork to create a decorative edge if desired.
Step 8: Bake Your Cookies
Bake in preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
Step 9: Cool Down
Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoy your freshly baked PB&J Stuffed Cookies!
How to Serve PB&J Stuffed Cookies
Serving PB&J Stuffed Cookies can be a delightful experience, whether you’re sharing them at a party or enjoying them at home. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie game.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing with cookies, milk complements the rich peanut butter flavor and balances the sweetness of the jelly.
Warmed in the Microwave
- For a gooey treat, warm your stuffed cookies for about 10 seconds. This will soften the jelly and make every bite even more delicious.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange cookies on a decorative platter alongside fresh fruits or other sweet treats for an appealing dessert spread.
With Ice Cream
- Top your warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that combines textures and flavors beautifully.
As Party Favors
- Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons for adorable party favors that guests can take home.
How to Perfect PB&J Stuffed Cookies
Perfecting your PB&J Stuffed Cookies is all about getting the texture and flavor just right. Here are some tips to help you achieve cookie perfection.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
- Chill the dough briefly: If your dough is too soft, chill it for 15-30 minutes before baking to help maintain shape.
- Experiment with jellies: Try different flavors like raspberry or blueberry for unique twists on this classic treat.
- Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies towards the end of baking to prevent over-browning.
- Cool properly: Allow cookies to cool on a wire rack to maintain their structure and avoid sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for PB&J Stuffed Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your PB&J Stuffed Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:
-
Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of berries, melons, and citrus adds freshness that complements the sweet cookies. -
Yogurt Parfait
Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy, crunchy contrast that pairs well with the cookies. -
Chocolate Milkshake
The richness of chocolate shakes brings out the flavors of peanut butter while providing a fun twist. -
Nut Mix
A blend of nuts offers a salty crunch that balances out the sweetness from the cookies. -
Cheese Plate
A selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie, provides an interesting savory element next to sweet treats. -
Ice Cream Sundae Bar
Set up toppings like chocolate syrup and sprinkles alongside ice cream for guests to create their own sundaes inspired by the cookie flavor. -
Coffee or Tea
Serve warm beverages as they enhance flavors and provide a comforting experience alongside sweet treats. -
Pudding Cups
Velvety pudding adds another layer of sweetness and texture that pairs nicely with PB&J flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making PB&J Stuffed Cookies can be a fun and easy process, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Using cold butter – Cold butter doesn’t cream well with sugars. Always use softened butter for a light and fluffy texture.
- Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for the best results.
- Skipping the chilling step – If your dough is too warm, the cookies may spread too much. Chill the dough for a bit if it feels too soft.
- Not sealing well – Failing to seal the edges of the cookie can cause the jelly to leak out during baking. Press firmly and use a fork to ensure they’re sealed.
- Baking at incorrect temperature – Make sure your oven is preheated properly. An oven that’s too hot can burn the edges before the inside is cooked through.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
- They will last for up to 5 days.
Freezing PB&J Stuffed Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating PB&J Stuffed Cookies
- Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time in 10-15 second intervals until warm.
- Stovetop – Place in a skillet on low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about PB&J Stuffed Cookies, here are some common inquiries answered.
Can I use different types of jelly for PB&J Stuffed Cookies?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite jellies or jams like raspberry or apricot for unique flavors.
How do I know when my PB&J Stuffed Cookies are done?
Look for golden edges and a soft center. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your cookie dough is too sticky, try adding a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency.
How should I store leftover PB&J Stuffed Cookies?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Final Thoughts
PB&J Stuffed Cookies are not just delicious; they also bring back nostalgic memories of childhood treats. With their soft peanut butter cookie exterior and sweet jelly filling, these cookies are perfect for sharing or indulging alone. Feel free to customize them with your favorite flavors or add chocolate chips for an extra twist!
PB&J Stuffed Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful nostalgia of PB&J Stuffed Cookies, where the comforting flavors of peanut butter and jelly come together in a soft, chewy cookie. These cookies are perfect for family gatherings, school events, or a sweet treat at home. With a gooey jelly center encased in rich peanut butter dough, each bite is sure to transport you back to childhood. Easy to make and customizable with your favorite jelly flavor, these cookies are a hit among kids and adults alike. Whether enjoyed warm with milk or shared as party favors, PB&J Stuffed Cookies promise to bring joy and sweet memories to any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup jelly (grape or strawberry)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, flatten into discs on the baking sheet, placing half as bases.
- Add about 1 teaspoon of jelly in the center of each disc.
- Top with another disc of dough and seal edges firmly using a fork if desired.
- Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cookies (60g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
