PB&J Stuffed Cookies

Delight in the nostalgia of PB&J Stuffed Cookies, where soft peanut butter cookie dough meets a sweet jelly filling. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, packing lunch for kids, or simply treating yourself. Their unique combination of flavors and textures makes them a standout dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, these cookies can be whipped up in no time.
• Nostalgic Flavor: Enjoy the classic taste of peanut butter and jelly in a fun, new way.
• Versatile Filling: Use your favorite jelly flavor—grape, strawberry, or even raspberry—to customize each batch.
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for bake sales, family gatherings, or just sharing with friends over coffee.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Engage kids in the kitchen with this easy and delightful recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your PB&J Stuffed Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Fork
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently.
• Baking sheet: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

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 Jelly 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 the creamy peanut butter, softened unsalted 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 all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture until you have a smooth dough.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out 2 tablespoons of dough and flatten into discs. Place half of these discs on your 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 the Cookies

Top each jelly-filled disc with another dough disc. Press the edges together to seal them well. You can use a fork to gently press down on the edges for decoration.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the 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

PB&J stuffed cookies can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. With their nostalgic flavor, they are perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of these delicious treats.

For a Classic Snack

• Pair with milk: Enjoy these cookies with a cold glass of milk for a true classic combination.
• Serve warm: Warm them slightly in the microwave for a gooey, melty experience.

As a Party Treat

• Dessert platter: Arrange PB&J stuffed cookies on a dessert platter with other sweets for an inviting display.
• Cookie sandwiches: Stack two cookies with a layer of frosting or whipped cream in between for an indulgent treat.

Kids’ Lunchbox Favorite

• Lunchbox addition: Pack a couple of PB&J stuffed cookies in your child’s lunchbox for a fun surprise.
• Mini cookie bites: Cut larger cookies into smaller pieces for easy snacking.

With Ice Cream

• Ice cream sandwich: Place a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for a scrumptious ice cream sandwich.
• Sundae topping: Crumble cookies on top of your ice cream sundae for extra crunch and flavor.

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How to Perfect PB&J Stuffed Cookies

Making the perfect PB&J stuffed cookies requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother dough and ensures even mixing.
• Don’t overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and soft.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
• Adjust jelly flavors: Experiment with different jelly flavors like raspberry or blackberry for unique twists.
• Watch baking time closely: Remove them from the oven when the edges are golden but the centers are still soft for best results.

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 to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances sweetness.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh berries to create a delightful contrast.
3. Chocolate Milkshake: A rich shake complements the nutty flavor of peanut butter beautifully.
4. Carrot Sticks: Crunchy carrot sticks provide a healthy crunch that pairs well with sweet cookies.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds savory notes that balance the sweetness of the cookies.
6. Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of cocoa makes for an inviting pairing, perfect for cozy evenings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making PB&J Stuffed Cookies, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your baking experience. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Incorrect oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even baking. An unpreheated oven can lead to unevenly baked cookies.
• Overmixing the dough: Mix just until combined to maintain a soft texture. Overmixing can make your cookies tough.
• Skipping the chilling time: Allowing the dough to chill helps the cookies hold their shape better while baking. Skipping this step can result in flat cookies.
• Using the wrong jelly: Choose a jelly that complements peanut butter well, like grape or strawberry. Using an overly tart jelly can throw off the flavor balance.
• Not sealing the edges properly: Ensure you seal the edges of your cookie discs well to prevent jelly from leaking during baking. You can use a fork for added security.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store PB&J Stuffed Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing PB&J Stuffed Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe container, where they can last up to three months.

Reheating PB&J Stuffed Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cookies for about 5 minutes for fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat, but be cautious not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making PB&J Stuffed Cookies:

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! Crunchy peanut butter adds texture but may affect dough consistency slightly.

What jelly flavors work best with these cookies?

While grape and strawberry are popular choices, feel free to experiment with raspberry or blueberry for unique flavors.

How do I know when my cookies are done?

Look for golden edges; the centers may appear slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking.

Final Thoughts

PB&J Stuffed Cookies offer a delightful twist on classic flavors, perfect for satisfying cravings or sharing with loved ones. Feel free to customize with different jellies or add-ins like chocolate chips for extra indulgence. Try this recipe today and enjoy warm memories wrapped in a sweet treat!