PB&J Stuffed Cookies

Delight in the nostalgic flavor of PB&J Stuffed Cookies, a sweet treat that combines the beloved tastes of peanut butter and jelly in a delicious cookie form. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to please everyone. With a soft and chewy peanut butter dough enveloping a sweet jelly center, they stand out as a fun and delightful dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies come together quickly, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
• Nostalgic Flavor: Enjoy the classic combination of peanut butter and jelly that brings back childhood memories with every bite.
• Customizable: Use your favorite jelly flavor—be it grape, strawberry, or raspberry—to make these cookies uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, school event, or just a treat for yourself, these cookies fit right in.
• Great for Sharing: With about 12-15 cookies per batch, they’re perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your PB&J Stuffed Cookies, gather your tools to ensure an efficient process. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: These mixers save time and effort when creaming the butter and sugars together until fluffy.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes clean-up 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

• 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

For the Filling

• 1/2 cup grape or strawberry jelly (or preferred flavor)

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 until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Form the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until you form a smooth dough.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out 2 tablespoons of dough. Flatten into discs. Place half on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Add Jelly Filling

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

Step 8: Seal the Cookies

Top each disc with another piece of dough. Press edges to seal. You can use a fork to press down gently for decoration.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden.

Step 10: Cool Down

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

How to Serve PB&J Stuffed Cookies

PB&J stuffed cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some fun serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, milk complements the peanut butter and jelly flavors perfectly. Choose whole milk for richness or almond milk for a nutty twist.

Warm and Fresh

• Serve these cookies fresh out of the oven for a comforting warm treat. The jelly filling will be gooey and delicious!

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create an indulgent dessert by sandwiching your PB&J stuffed cookies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. This adds creaminess to each bite.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair these cookies with fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas. The natural sweetness balances the rich cookie flavor.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• For a touch of elegance, dust your PB&J stuffed cookies with powdered sugar. This adds sweetness and makes for an appealing presentation.

How to Perfect PB&J Stuffed Cookies

Making the perfect PB&J stuffed cookies is an art. Here are some tips to help you achieve cookie perfection.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality peanut butter and jelly for the best flavor. Natural peanut butter can add depth to your cookies.

• Chill the Dough: Letting your dough chill for about 30 minutes can help prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. They should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center when you take them out.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to try different jelly flavors like raspberry or peach for unique taste variations.

• Store Properly: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for PB&J Stuffed Cookies

PB&J stuffed cookies are delicious on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing mix of seasonal fruits that provides a healthy contrast to the richness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a creamy side that complements the cookie flavors beautifully.
3. Chocolate Milkshake: Indulge in a thick chocolate milkshake that pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter taste.
4. Nut Mix: A savory nut mix adds crunch and balances the sweetness of the cookies with its salty notes.
5. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or cream cheese which provide a creamy texture against the sweet cookie filling.
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances flavors and makes for a cozy pairing, perfect for afternoon treats.
7. Ice Cream Sundae: Top vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce and crushed nuts as a decadent side dish that complements cookie flavors well.
8. Carrot Sticks: For a healthy option, serve crunchy carrot sticks alongside hummus for dipping, balancing sweetness with savory crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making PB&J Stuffed Cookies is a simple process, but there are common pitfalls that can ruin your experience. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Not measuring ingredients accurately – Accurate measurements are key to the perfect dough texture. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.

• Using cold butter – Cold butter makes it difficult to cream properly with peanut butter. Ensure your unsalted butter is softened at room temperature for a light and fluffy mixture.

• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated to keep your cookies soft and chewy.

• Skipping the chilling time – Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking. If time allows, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking for thicker cookies.

• Not sealing the edges properly – If you don’t seal the edges well, the jelly may leak out while baking. Press firmly around the edges of each cookie before placing them in the oven.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing PB&J Stuffed Cookies

• Wrap individual cookies tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating PB&J Stuffed Cookies

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave – Heat cookies on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat as they can become tough.

• Stovetop – Place cookies in a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid for about 2-3 minutes. This method can help retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about PB&J Stuffed Cookies that might help you enjoy this recipe even more!

Can I use different flavors of jelly for PB&J Stuffed Cookies?

Yes! You can use any jelly flavor you prefer, such as raspberry or blackberry, to customize your cookies.

How do I make my PB&J Stuffed Cookies gluten-free?

To make these cookies gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour.

What is the best way to store PB&J Stuffed Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I make PB&J Stuffed Cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it or freeze it before baking. Just ensure you allow proper thawing before baking if frozen.

Are PB&J Stuffed Cookies suitable for parties?

Yes! These fun and nostalgic treats are perfect for parties and gatherings. They add a delightful twist to any dessert table.

Final Thoughts

PB&J Stuffed Cookies combine classic flavors into a delightful treat that appeals to both kids and adults alike. With their soft peanut butter exterior and sweet jelly center, they are both nostalgic and satisfying. Feel free to customize your fillings or even add chocolate chips for an extra indulgence! Try making these delicious cookies today—you won’t be disappointed!