Pb&j Stuffed Cookies

Delight in the nostalgia of Pb&J Stuffed Cookies, a treat that brings back childhood memories with every bite. These cookies combine the rich flavor of peanut butter with a sweet jelly center, making them perfect for any occasion—from casual snacks to special celebrations. Their soft texture and delightful filling set them apart, ensuring they’ll be a favorite among family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly creates a delicious flavor that appeals to all ages.
• Versatile Treat: Customize your jelly filling with your favorite flavors like grape, strawberry, or raspberry for a personal twist.
• Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch for parties, bake sales, or just because—everyone will love them!
• Fun Activity: Making these cookies is a great way to spend time with kids or friends in the kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pb&J Stuffed Cookies, gather all necessary tools and prepare your kitchen for a fun baking session.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl allows you to easily blend ingredients together without spills.
• Baking sheet: A good baking sheet ensures even cooking and helps prevent burning.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes cleanup easy and prevents cookies from sticking.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Pb&J Stuffed Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

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.
• 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. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly baked cookies.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla Extract

Add the egg and vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is well combined for a smooth dough.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents throughout the dough.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until you form a smooth dough without overmixing.

Step 6: Prepare Cookie Discs

Scoop out about two tablespoons of dough. Flatten each scoop into discs. Place half of these discs on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 7: Add Jelly Filling

In the center of each disc, place about one teaspoon of your chosen jelly. This will be the delicious surprise inside each cookie!

Step 8: Top and Seal Cookies

Cover each filled disc with another piece of dough. Press down gently at the edges to seal them closed. Use a fork to make decorative imprints on top if desired.

Step 9: Bake Cookies

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as ovens can vary!

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for five 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

These delightful Pb&J stuffed cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy family night, or simply craving a sweet treat, here are some fun serving suggestions.

Cookie Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create a sandwich, adding a layer of whipped cream or ice cream in between for an indulgent dessert.

Milk Dipping

• Serve your cookies with a glass of cold milk. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the soft cookie and jelly filling.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange the Pb&J stuffed cookies on a platter alongside fresh fruits like strawberries or bananas. This adds color and freshness to your dessert spread.

Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons. They make great party favors for birthdays or other celebrations!

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm beverage complements the sweetness of the cookies nicely.

Ice Cream Topping

• Crumble some cookies on top of vanilla ice cream for an exciting dessert twist that brings back childhood memories.

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How to Perfect Pb&j Stuffed Cookies

To ensure your Pb&J stuffed cookies are always soft and delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Measure accurately – Use proper measuring cups for wet and dry ingredients to maintain consistency in your dough.
• Chill the dough – Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes can help the flavors meld and prevent spreading during baking.
• Don’t overbake – Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be golden at the edges but soft in the center for that perfect chewy texture.
• Experiment with fillings – Try different jelly flavors like raspberry or blueberry to mix things up and find your favorite combination.
• Use high-quality peanut butter – Opt for creamy peanut butter without added sugars or oils for the best flavor and texture.
• Store properly – Keep leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness.

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:

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 delicious contrast to the cookie’s rich flavors.
3. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can provide a savory complement, enhancing the overall taste experience.
4. Chocolate Milkshake – Indulge in a thick chocolate milkshake that pairs beautifully with sweet treats like these cookies.
5. Nut Mix – A small bowl of assorted nuts offers crunch and protein, making it a great balance to the sugary cookies.
6. Carrot Sticks with Hummus – For a healthier side, crunchy carrot sticks dipped in hummus add nutrition alongside sweetness.
7. Ice Cream Sundae Bar – Set up an ice cream sundae station where guests can top their ice cream with cookie crumbles as well as other toppings.
8. Pudding Cups – Serve individual pudding cups as a creamy side that complements both texture and flavor profiles of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pb&J Stuffed Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Bold Ingredient Measuring: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to poor texture. Always use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Bold Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for soft, chewy cookies.
• Bold Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can cause cookies to spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better results.
• Bold Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at incorrect temperatures can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure correct baking temperatures.
• Bold Using Low-Quality Jelly: Low-quality jelly can affect flavor. Choose a good-quality jelly for the best taste in your Pb&J Stuffed Cookies.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.
• item They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pb&j Stuffed Cookies

• item Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• item Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They will last up to 3 months.

Reheating Pb&j Stuffed Cookies

• Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat individual cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm cookies in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes. This method keeps them soft and gooey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Pb&J Stuffed Cookies.

Can I use natural peanut butter for Pb&j Stuffed Cookies?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but it may change the texture slightly. It might be more crumbly than creamy peanut butter.

What type of jelly is best for Pb&j Stuffed Cookies?

Grape and strawberry jelly are popular choices, but feel free to use any flavor you love! Raspberry or blackberry also work well.

How do I customize my Pb&j Stuffed Cookies?

You can add chocolate chips or nuts into the dough or substitute different nut butters if desired. The options are endless!

How should I store leftover Pb&j Stuffed Cookies?

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

Can I freeze Pb&j Stuffed Cookies?

Absolutely! You can freeze both baked and unbaked cookies. Just remember to wrap them well!

Final Thoughts

Pb&J Stuffed Cookies offer a delicious blend of nostalgia and indulgence that everyone loves. They are perfect for gatherings or as a sweet treat at home. Feel free to customize these cookies with different jellies or mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts!