PB&J Stuffed Cookies

Delight in the nostalgic charm of PB&J Stuffed Cookies! These cookies bring together the beloved flavors of peanut butter and jelly, offering a unique twist on classic cookies. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations, they are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. The combination of soft peanut butter cookie dough enveloping a sweet jelly filling creates a delightful treat that will have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nostalgic Flavors: Enjoy the classic taste of peanut butter and jelly in a fun, new way.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies come together quickly.
• Versatile Filling Options: Customize with your favorite jelly flavor, whether it’s grape, strawberry, or something else!
• Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make a great addition to bake sales, parties, or as gifts.
• Fun for All Ages: Kids will love helping out in the kitchen while making these delicious treats.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spills.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars easier and faster, ensuring a light texture.

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 Mixture

• 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 Ingredients

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

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Form the Dough

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

Step 6: 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 7: Add Jelly Filling

In the center of each disc, place about 1 teaspoon of your chosen jelly.

Step 8: Seal Cookies

Top each jelly-filled disc with another dough disc. Press edges to seal securely; you can also use a fork to create decorative edges.

Step 9: Bake

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

Step 10: Cool Down

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

These PB&J Stuffed Cookies are sure to be a favorite treat!

How to Serve PB&J Stuffed Cookies

Serving PB&J stuffed cookies can be a delightful experience, combining nostalgia with creativity. Here are some fun ways to enjoy these sweet treats.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing: Nothing beats the combination of warm cookies and cold milk.
• Try chocolate milk for an extra indulgent twist.

As a Dessert Sandwich

• Cut the cookies in half and spread additional jelly in between for a fun sandwich-style treat.
• This is ideal for sharing with friends or family.

Warm with Ice Cream

• Serve the cookies warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• The melting ice cream pairs perfectly with the soft, peanut butter cookie.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for added sweetness.
• This makes them look even more enticing and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Packaged as Gifts

• Place the cookies in a decorative box as a homemade gift.
• They make for a heartfelt present, especially during holidays or special occasions.

At Parties or Gatherings

• Arrange the cookies on a platter for parties or get-togethers.
• They are sure to be a hit among guests of all ages.

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How to Perfect PB&J Stuffed Cookies

Perfecting your PB&J stuffed cookies can elevate them from good to unforgettable. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading while baking.
• Experiment with Flavors: Try different jelly flavors or even add chocolate chips for extra richness.
• Bake Until Just Golden: Keep an eye on baking time; removing them when edges are golden will keep them soft inside.
• Store Properly: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness longer.

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 delicious options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a creamy side that complements the cookie’s texture.
3. Chocolate Milkshake: A thick shake pairs well, amplifying that nostalgic vibe similar to childhood lunches.
4. Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy trail mix offers contrast to the soft cookie and adds more protein and fiber.
5. Vanilla Ice Cream: As mentioned earlier, serve alongside warm cookies for a classic combo that everyone loves!
6. Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of fries offers an interesting contrast that enhances flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making PB&J Stuffed Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can impact your results.

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined to keep them soft.
• Ignoring the Chill Time: Skipping chill time can cause cookies to spread too much while baking. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes for better shape.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect how well they cream together. Make sure your butter is softened and eggs are at room temperature.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurements.
• Baking on an Unlined Sheet: Not using parchment paper may result in sticking. Always line your baking sheet to ensure easy removal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the fridge.

Freezing PB&J Stuffed Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months.

Reheating PB&J Stuffed Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm gently for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are PB&J Stuffed Cookies?

PB&J Stuffed Cookies are delightful treats made with peanut butter cookie dough filled with sweet jelly, offering a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of childhood lunches.

Can I use different jelly flavors?

Yes! Feel free to use any jelly flavor you prefer, such as raspberry or blueberry, to customize your PB&J Stuffed Cookies.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

To prevent spreading, chill the dough before baking and ensure that your ingredients are measured accurately.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

PB&J Stuffed Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different jelly flavors or even add chocolate chips for extra sweetness. These cookies bring comfort and joy with every bite, making them perfect for sharing with family and friends. Try this recipe today and experience the nostalgic flavors of your childhood!