PB&J Stuffed Cookies

Delicious PB&J Stuffed Cookies are a nostalgic treat that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and jelly into a soft, chewy cookie. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only fun to make but also bring joy to both kids and adults alike. With a creamy peanut butter dough and a sweet jelly center, they’re sure to be a hit at parties, bake sales, or just as a delightful after-school snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and jelly creates a sweet and savory experience that everyone will love.
• Versatile Options: You can use any flavor of jelly you prefer, allowing for customization based on your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make great gifts or can be shared among friends and family during gatherings.
• Nostalgic Treat: Reminisce about childhood lunches with every bite of these delightful cookies.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather all your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming together the ingredients for the dough.
• Mixing bowls: Ensures you have enough space to combine wet and dry ingredients without spilling.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies, ensuring they cook uniformly.

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 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 Dough Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the following until light and fluffy:
1. Creamy peanut butter
2. Unsalted butter
3. Granulated sugar
4. Brown sugar

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the following ingredients to your creamed mixture:
– 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 dry mixture to the wet mix until you form a smooth dough.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten them into discs. Place half of these discs onto your prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Add Jelly

In the center of each disc, add approximately 1 teaspoon of your choice of jelly.

Step 7: Top with Another Disc

Cover each jelly-filled disc with another dough disc. Press down on the edges to seal them tightly. For an added decorative touch, gently press the edges with a fork.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Step 9: Cool

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Now enjoy your delicious PB&J Stuffed Cookies! Perfectly soft with that sweet jelly surprise inside.

How to Serve PB&J Stuffed Cookies

PB&J stuffed cookies are not just delicious; they also offer versatility in serving. Whether it’s a casual snack or a special occasion, here are some creative ways to enjoy these tasty treats.

With a Glass of Milk

• Classic Pairing: Nothing beats the combination of cookies and milk. A cold glass complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

As Dessert Tacos

• Fun Twist: Use two cookies as taco shells and fill them with whipped cream or ice cream for a fun dessert twist that kids will love.

On a Dessert Platter

• Party Favor: Arrange these cookies on a colorful platter alongside brownies and fruit for an appealing dessert table at your gatherings.

With Fresh Fruit

• Refreshing Balance: Serve your PB&J stuffed cookies with slices of fresh strawberries or apple wedges for a balance of flavors and textures.

As Part of a Gift Basket

• Thoughtful Gesture: Include these cookies in a homemade gift basket filled with other sweet treats, perfect for birthdays or holidays.

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How to Perfect PB&J Stuffed Cookies

To ensure your PB&J stuffed cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Measure Your Ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial for cookie consistency. Use measuring cups and spoons rather than estimating.
• Chill the Dough: If your dough is too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape.
• Experiment with Fillings: While grape jelly is classic, try using strawberry or raspberry for different flavor combinations that excite your palate.
• Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on the edges. Remove them from the oven when they turn golden brown to avoid overbaking.
• Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days.
• Share Your Cookies: These treats are great for sharing. Make extra batches to enjoy with friends and family!

Best Side Dishes for PB&J Stuffed Cookies

Pairing side dishes with your PB&J stuffed cookies can enhance your snack experience. Here are some delightful side options that complement the flavors well.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the sweetness and adds a cool texture.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the rich cookies.
3. Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a thick chocolate milkshake that makes each bite even sweeter.
4. Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides freshness and cuts through the richness of the cookie.
5. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix made with nuts and dried fruits offers a healthy crunch alongside your treats.
6. Whipped Cream Dip: Create a simple whipped cream dip by mixing heavy cream with sugar for dipping your cookies into!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making PB&J stuffed cookies can be a delightful experience, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results.

• Ignoring ingredient temperature: Using cold butter or eggs can affect the texture. Always ensure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too much can cause tough cookies. Mix until just combined for a softer result.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour leads to dry cookies. Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cooling the cookies on the baking sheet helps them set properly. Give them at least 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
• Using too much jelly: Overfilling with jelly can cause spills. Stick to 1 teaspoon in the center of each disc for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store PB&J stuffed cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing PB&J Stuffed Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating PB&J Stuffed Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds until soft.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, flipping once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making PB&J stuffed cookies.

What are PB&J Stuffed Cookies?

PB&J stuffed cookies are soft peanut butter cookies filled with sweet jelly, creating a nostalgic and delicious treat.

Can I use different types of jelly?

Yes! You can use any flavor of jelly or jam you prefer, including strawberry, raspberry, or even homemade fruit preserves.

How do I ensure my cookies are chewy?

To achieve chewy PB&J stuffed cookies, avoid overbaking and let them cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.

What should I serve with PB&J Stuffed Cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra sweet treat!

Final Thoughts

PB&J stuffed cookies combine the comforting flavors of peanut butter and jelly into one amazing treat. They are perfect for satisfying cravings and can easily be customized with different jams or add-ins. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful nostalgia it brings!