PB&J Stuffed Cookies
Delicious PB&J Stuffed Cookies are a nostalgic treat that brings together the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly in a delightful cookie format. These cookies are perfect for various occasions, whether you’re hosting a party, need a fun dessert for family gatherings, or simply want to indulge in a tasty snack. With their soft peanut butter cookie dough enveloping a sweet jelly filling, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nostalgic Flavor: Enjoy the classic combination of peanut butter and jelly in a new form.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for beginners, making it great for baking with kids.
- Customizable: Use your favorite jelly flavor to personalize each batch.
- Perfect for Sharing: With 12-15 cookies per batch, there’s plenty to go around at parties or potlucks.
- Soft and Chewy Texture: The cookies have a delightful texture that melts in your mouth.
Tools and Preparation
Before you get started with your PB&J stuffed cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Whisk
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients efficiently.
- Baking sheet: Using a quality baking sheet ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
- Parchment paper: This helps with easy cleanup and keeps your cookies from sticking to the pan.
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.
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.
Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the following:
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until you have a smooth dough.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out approximately 2 tablespoons of dough. Flatten each portion into discs. Place half of these discs onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6: Add Jelly Filling
In the center of each disc, add about 1 teaspoon of your chosen jelly.
Step 7: Seal Cookies
Top each filled disc with another dough disc. Press down on the edges to seal them tightly. You can use a fork to crimp them for decoration.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn 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
These delightful PB&J stuffed cookies can be enjoyed in many fun ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your cookie experience.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic combination! Pairing PB&J stuffed cookies with cold milk enhances the flavors and adds a creamy texture.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich. Choose your favorite flavor of ice cream for an extra special treat.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside fresh fruit and nuts. This makes for a colorful and inviting dessert spread.
As Party Favors
- Package the cookies in cute bags or boxes as party favors. Guests will love taking home this nostalgic treat!
With Whipped Cream
- Top the warm cookies with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness. Drizzle with chocolate sauce for an indulgent touch.
In Lunchboxes
- Add these cookies to lunchboxes for a fun surprise. They are perfect for kids and adults alike!
How to Perfect PB&J Stuffed Cookies
Perfecting your PB&J stuffed cookies can make all the difference in taste and texture. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.
-
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth dough that blends well.
-
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid tough cookies. A gentle hand ensures softness.
-
Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps them maintain their shape during baking.
-
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures. This prevents overbaking or underbaking your cookies.
-
Experiment with Fillings: Try different jelly flavors or even add chocolate chips for variety. Get creative with your favorite flavors!
Best Side Dishes for PB&J Stuffed Cookies
Serving these delicious cookies is made even better with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
-
Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
-
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful contrast to the rich cookies.
-
Veggie Sticks: Crisp carrot, celery, and cucumber sticks provide a crunchy, refreshing side that pairs well.
-
Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate offers a tasty contrast to the sweet cookies.
-
Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or gouda along with crackers for a savory option that complements sweetness.
-
Nut Mix: A bowl of mixed nuts adds crunch and protein, making it an excellent accompaniment to satisfy different cravings.
-
Popsicles: Cool off with fruity popsicles, perfect for hot days when enjoying these baked goodies.
-
Coffee or Tea: Serve with a warm cup of coffee or tea for an adult twist on snack time!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making PB&J Stuffed Cookies can be easy, but a few common mistakes might ruin your batch. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfect.
- Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter does not cream well with sugars, leading to dense cookies. Make sure your butter is soft and at room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for softer, chewier results.
- Not measuring flour properly: Too much or too little flour can alter the texture of your cookies. Use a kitchen scale or fluff up your flour before scooping.
- Ignoring oven temperature accuracy: An incorrect oven temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing PB&J Stuffed Cookies
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Ensure they are completely cool before freezing to prevent ice crystals.
Reheating PB&J Stuffed Cookies
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Check if heated through; avoid overheating as they may become tough.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 2-3 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about PB&J Stuffed Cookies that might help you out!
Can I use different jelly flavors in PB&J Stuffed Cookies?
Absolutely! You can use any jelly flavor you prefer, such as raspberry or blueberry, based on your taste.
How do I store leftover PB&J Stuffed Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Can I make these PB&J Stuffed Cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What is the best way to freeze PB&J Stuffed Cookies?
Freeze them individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer them into a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents them from sticking together.
Are PB&J Stuffed Cookies suitable for kids?
Definitely! These cookies are fun and nostalgic treats that kids will love, making them perfect for lunchboxes or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
These PB&J Stuffed Cookies are not only delicious but also offer plenty of room for customization. Try adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. Whether you enjoy them warm or cold, they make a delightful snack any time of day. Give this recipe a try and relive those comforting childhood memories!
PB&J Stuffed Cookies
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the nostalgia of childhood with these delightful PB&J Stuffed Cookies. Combining soft peanut butter cookie dough with a sweet jelly filling, these cookies are perfect for any occasion—be it family gatherings, parties, or simply a cozy night at home. With their chewy texture and customizable flavors, they bring joy to both kids and adults alike. Baking these treats is easy and fun, making them an excellent project for baking with children. Get ready to impress friends and family with these irresistible cookies that are sure to become a beloved favorite!
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 large bowl, cream together peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Mix in the egg and vanilla extract 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 until smooth.
- Scoop about 2 tablespoons of dough, flatten into discs, and place half on the baking sheet.
- Add about 1 teaspoon of jelly in the center of each disc.
- Top with another disc of dough and seal the edges by pressing down firmly.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Allow cooling for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approx. 44g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
