Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Delights

In the world of cookies, there’s always room for more creativity, especially when it involves two beloved pantry staples: peanut butter and jelly. Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that combines these classic flavors in a delicious and comforting treat. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, looking for a fun weekend project, or simply craving something sweet, these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Delights are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup seedless jam (plus extra for topping)
• Melted peanut butter, for garnish
• Chopped peanuts, for garnish

Directions:

1. Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl or stand mixer, start by creaming the butter until smooth. Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. Then, mix in the peanut butter until well incorporated, followed by the egg and vanilla extract.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Slowly add these dry ingredients to the wet mix, stirring just until everything is combined without overmixing.
4. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1 and 1/2 inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced adequately apart to allow for spreading.
5. Add the Signature Touch: Press down each dough ball with a fork dipped in sugar (this helps prevent sticking), creating a classic criss-cross pattern. Spoon a small dollop of jam onto the center of each cookie for that signature PB&J flavor.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are just turning golden. This timing ensures that your cookies come out perfectly soft with a slightly crisp edge.
7. Cool and Garnish: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. For an extra touch of decadence, enhance each cookie with a drizzle of melted peanut butter and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: 180 kcal per cookie
• Servings: Makes approximately 28 cookies

Serving Suggestions:

These cookies are fantastic on their own but can also be paired with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a cozy afternoon snack. They’re sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face with their nostalgic flavors and homemade charm.

Enjoy baking these delightful Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Delights, and may your home be filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies!