PB&J Stuffed Cookies

Delight in the nostalgic flavors of PB&J Stuffed Cookies! This recipe combines a soft peanut butter cookie dough with a sweet jelly filling, making it perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or simply enjoying at home. With every bite, you’ll reminisce about childhood lunches while savoring a delightful twist on a classic treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and your favorite jelly creates a taste sensation that’s hard to beat.
• Versatile Treat: Use any flavor of jelly you like—grape, strawberry, or even raspberry—to customize your cookies.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or an after-school snack, these cookies are sure to please everyone.
• Nostalgic Appeal: Bring back fond memories of childhood lunches with this fun and tasty dessert.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your PB&J Stuffed Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spilling.
• Baking sheet: Provides the right surface for even baking and easy cookie transfers.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

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 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 Together 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 the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Prepare Cookie Discs

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

Step 7: Add Jelly Filling

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

Step 8: Seal with Another Disc

Top each disc filled with jelly with another piece of dough. Press the edges gently to seal them together. Optionally, press down on the edges with a fork for decoration.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

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

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

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

Enjoy your fresh-out-of-the-oven PB&J Stuffed Cookies!

How to Serve PB&J Stuffed Cookies

PB&J stuffed cookies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether for a fun afternoon snack or a dessert at a gathering, these cookies are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that never goes out of style. The creaminess of milk complements the rich peanut butter and sweet jelly flavors.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm and top them with a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for an indulgent dessert that melts in your mouth.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside fresh fruit and other treats for a festive look at parties or gatherings.

As Part of a Gift Basket

• Include PB&J stuffed cookies in a homemade gift basket with milk, jelly, and other sweet treats for a thoughtful, nostalgic gift.

With Fresh Berries

• Pair your cookies with fresh strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast to the cookie’s sweetness.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. This adds an elegant touch and extra richness.

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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:

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allow your butter and eggs to reach room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Don’t overmix the dough – Mixing just until combined helps keep the cookies soft and chewy rather than tough.

• Chill the dough if necessary – If your dough is too sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle.

• Check oven temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results.

• Experiment with fillings – Try different jelly flavors like raspberry or peach to find your favorite combination!

• Store in an airtight container – To maintain freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.

Best Side Dishes for PB&J Stuffed Cookies

PB&J stuffed cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy and crunchy contrast alongside your cookies.

3. Mini Cheese Platter – Include cheese varieties like cheddar or brie, which offer a savory counterpoint to the sweet cookies.

4. Trail Mix – A handful of mixed nuts and dried fruit provides an easy, healthy side that complements the cookie’s flavors.

5. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels – The crunch and saltiness of pretzels dipped in chocolate make this snack perfect alongside PB&J stuffed cookies.

6. Coffee or Tea – A warm beverage enhances the enjoyment of these sweet treats while providing a cozy element.

7. Milkshakes – Blend up some milkshakes for a fun, nostalgic drink option that pairs beautifully with your cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making PB&J Stuffed Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final outcome. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using cold ingredients – Cold butter or eggs can lead to a dense cookie. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for a lighter texture.
• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix just until the dry ingredients are combined for a soft and chewy bite.
• Skipping the chilling step – Chilling dough helps prevent spreading during baking. If your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 30 minutes before baking.
• Not measuring accurately – Inaccurate measurements can ruin the balance of flavors and textures. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for best results.
• Ignoring baking time – Baking too long makes cookies hard. Keep an eye on them and remove from the oven when edges are golden but centers are still soft.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store PB&J Stuffed Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days 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) and bake for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat one cookie at a time on medium power for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop – Warm in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about PB&J Stuffed Cookies that you might find helpful.

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

Yes! Feel free to experiment with your favorite jelly flavors like raspberry or apricot.

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

You can substitute regular flour with gluten-free all-purpose flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

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.

How do I know when PB&J Stuffed Cookies are done baking?

Look for golden edges while ensuring that the center remains slightly soft; they will firm up as they cool.

Final Thoughts

PB&J Stuffed Cookies offer a delightful blend of nostalgia and flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings and even add chocolate chips or nuts if desired. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy these cozy treats with family and friends!