There's nothing quite like the nostalgic taste of peanut butter and jelly, and these Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches take that classic flavor to a whole new level! I still recall the joy of trading lunchbox treats with friends, each bite a sweet reminder of carefree afternoons. This recipe not only evokes cherished memories but also comes together in just 27 minutes, making it a perfect weekend project or a quick fix when you're craving something comforting.
Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie with a deliciously creamy peanut butter filling and a burst of fruity jelly in every mouthful. With just a handful of common ingredients, you can whip up this delightful treat that will impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re a busy individual seeking an at-home indulgence or a budding chef looking to try something new, this recipe connects the simplicity of childhood favorites with the joy of homemade goodness. So let’s dive in and create some cookie magic!
Why You'll Love This Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches
- These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches are incredibly easy to make, taking only 27 minutes from start to finish.
- The combination of soft, chewy cookies filled with creamy peanut butter and fruity jelly creates a flavor explosion that both kids and adults will adore.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing you to choose any jelly or jam flavor you love, so you can customize each sandwich to your taste.
- Not only are they visually appealing with their sandwich style, but they're also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at any gathering, making them the perfect treat to share with friends and family.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches Ingredients
For the Cookies
- All-purpose flour – a classic base for these soft cookies that creates the perfect chewy texture.
- Baking soda – helps the cookies rise and become light and airy.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Unsalted butter – used for its creamy richness, ensuring the cookies are soft and tender.
- Granulated sugar – provides sweetness and contributes to a lovely golden-brown color.
- Brown sugar – adds moisture and depth of flavor, making the cookies extra chewy.
- Creamy peanut butter – the star of the show, delivering that classic flavor in every bite of your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches.
- Large egg – binds all the ingredients together, giving the cookies structure.
For the Filling
- Jelly or jam – use your favorite flavor to spread joy and sweetness between the cookie layers!
How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cookies bake evenly and turn out perfectly golden brown. While the oven heats, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps distribute the baking soda evenly, ensuring your cookies rise just right. Set this mixture aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
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Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes; the creaminess adds to the cookie's delightful texture!
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Add Egg: Crack in the large egg and mix until everything is well incorporated. The egg acts as a binding agent, holding your cookie dough together.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just blended. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky and moist.
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Scoop Dough: Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about two inches of space between them. This will allow the cookies to spread while baking without getting too close.
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Bake Cookies: Slide the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The edges should turn golden, while the centers stay soft and chewy.
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Assemble Sandwiches: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool slightly on the sheets. Spread your favorite jelly on half of the cookies and top them with another cookie, creating delightful sandwiches full of flavor.
Optional: Drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and customize these delightful cookie sandwiches to suit your taste buds!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
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Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free alternative that still offers creamy goodness.
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Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and choose plant-based butter for a delicious vegan treat.
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Chocolate Chip Boost: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough before baking for an extra sweet and decadent twist that pairs perfectly with the jelly.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cookie dough for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness of the jelly.
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Coconut Flavors: Stir in ½ cup of shredded coconut into the dough for a chewy texture and tropical twist in every bite.
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Caramel Surprise: Drizzle some caramel sauce between the cookies before adding your jelly for a rich, indulgent flavor.
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Fruit Filling: Experiment with different types of jams or even fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or bananas for a fresh and fruity take on this classic cookie sandwich. Each filling adds a new dimension and keeps the flavors exciting!
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by covering it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerating it. The formed cookies can also be scooped and placed on baking sheets, then stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just cover them to prevent drying out. When you're ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and bake from chilled for a delightful treat. For the best quality, assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the cookies soft and the jelly fresh, ensuring every bite remains just as delicious!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches?
Nothing says comfort like a homemade dessert; these delightful cookie sandwiches are perfect for sharing and enjoying at any gathering.
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Milk: The classic pairing! A cold glass of milk perfectly complements the richness of the peanut butter and balances the sweetness of the jelly.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful array of fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, enhancing your dessert experience with vibrant flavors and textures.
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Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These decadent treats elevate the sweet experience, providing a delightful chocolatey contrast that pairs well with the savory nutty cookies.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Adding a scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream creates a scrumptious dessert, blending creamy and fruity flavors in every bite.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea creates a cozy atmosphere, balancing the sweetness while enhancing the cookie’s beloved flavors.
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Whipped Cream Topping: Top your cookie sandwiches with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an airy, indulgent finish that’s sure to impress.
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Nutty Trail Mix: This crunchy assortment offers a delightful contrast in texture, bringing more peanut-y goodness that pairs seamlessly with your cookies.
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Sparkling Water: For a refreshing twist, sparkling water with a hint of lemon can cleanse your palate while enjoying these sweet treats.
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches
Room Temperature: Keep the cookie sandwiches in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week. This will slightly firm up the cookies but will still be delicious!
Freezer: Freeze the unfilled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Assemble with jelly after thawing.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm cookie sandwich, microwave for about 10-15 seconds until just warm, enhancing the chewy texture of your Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly chewy Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches, be sure to cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy for about 2-3 minutes.
- A common mistake is overmixing the dough; mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender.
- Using a cookie scoop ensures even portions, which helps the cookies bake uniformly.
- For the best results, remember to let the cookies cool slightly before adding the jelly, as this will prevent the filling from oozing out.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best peanut butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using creamy peanut butter, as it spreads easily and balances well with the jelly. Look for natural peanut butter with no added sugars for a richer flavor. If you prefer crunchy peanut butter for added texture, that can work too!
How should I store leftover Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches?
Very! Make sure to place the cookie sandwiches in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days, but if you prefer them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be aware that refrigeration may slightly harden the cookies, while still keeping them delicious!
Can I freeze the Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches?
Yes, indeed! If you want to freeze them, it's best to freeze the unfilled cookies. Lay the cookies on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw and assemble them with jelly once you're ready for a treat.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Oh no! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to soft butter being used. Make sure your butter is softened properly — it should be at room temperature and not melted. Additionally, chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before scooping it onto the baking sheet can help them maintain their shape!
Are Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches safe for pets or people with allergies?
Great question! Given the ingredients, these cookies contain common allergens like peanuts and gluten. If preparing for someone with nut allergies, you can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter. Always double-check the jelly to ensure it's free of components that may trigger allergies for those you are serving.
What variations can I try with the filling?
So many options! Not only can you use any flavor of jelly or jam, such as strawberry or raspberry, but feel free to experiment with chocolate hazelnut spread or even cream cheese for a different spin. Add some sliced bananas or strawberries in between for a fun twist on your classic Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches!
Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookie Sandwiches
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter until light and fluffy.
- Add the large egg and mix until well incorporated.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just blended.
- Scoop out portions of dough and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about two inches of space between them.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and centers are soft and chewy.
- Allow cookies to cool slightly then spread jelly on half of the cookies and top with another cookie.
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