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Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies: Sweet, Soft, and Irresistible

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Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Favorite If you’re a fan of the beloved peanut butter and jelly combo, then Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies are the perfect treat for you. Combining the creamy goodness of peanut

By Jessica Brown

Updated on March 20, 2025

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Favorite

If you’re a fan of the beloved peanut butter and jelly combo, then Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies are the perfect treat for you. Combining the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the sweetness of your favorite jelly, these cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors that take the traditional PB&J to the next level. They’re soft, chewy, and sure to bring comfort and nostalgia with every bite.

For more peanut butter-inspired recipes, check out Peanut Butter Cookies from Sally’s Baking Addiction or try a classic Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich recipe on Food Network.


Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Print
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Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies: Sweet, Soft, and Irresistible


  • Author: Jennifer Mitchell
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and jelly in a delicious, chewy cookie. With a rich peanut butter base, these cookies are filled with a dollop of your favorite jelly, creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite. These are a fun twist on the classic PB&J sandwich, ideal for a treat that everyone will love!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup butter, salted or unsalted
  • 2/3 cup white sugar
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup grape jelly, or your favorite flavor

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the Cookie Dough:

    • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
    • Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
  3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
  4. Shape the Cookies:

    • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  5. Indent for the Jelly:

    • Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each dough ball. The indent should be deep enough to hold a small spoonful of jelly but not so deep that the cookie falls apart.
  6. Add the Jelly:

    • Spoon about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of grape jelly (or your preferred jelly flavor) into the center of each cookie, filling the indentation.
  7. Bake the Cookies:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
    • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Serve these Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies with a glass of milk, or enjoy them as a fun snack or dessert for any occasion.

Notes

You can use any type of jelly or jam for the filling, such as strawberry, raspberry, or even apricot, to customize the flavor.

If you prefer a more indulgent cookie, add chocolate chips to the dough before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 17g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
  2. Cream the Peanut Butter and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter and butter (both softened) using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until smooth and well combined.
  3. Add Sugar and Eggs: Add the white sugar and brown sugar to the peanut butter-butter mixture, beating until fluffy and light. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough is just combined.
  5. Form the Dough Balls: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion out 1-inch balls of dough. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
  6. Create a Well for the Jelly: Using your thumb or a small spoon, make an indentation in the center of each cookie dough ball. Be careful not to press all the way through the dough.
  7. Add the Jelly: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of grape jelly (or your preferred jelly) into each indentation. Be sure not to overfill, as the jelly could spill over while baking.
  8. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The cookies may look soft when they come out, but they will firm up as they cool.
  9. Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, these Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies are ready to be enjoyed. The sweet and savory combination of peanut butter and jelly will make every bite delicious!

Advanced Techniques for Perfect Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies

While this recipe is simple, you can make a few adjustments to elevate your Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies:

Chill the Dough:

If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30-60 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents excessive spreading.

Experiment with Jellies:

While grape jelly is the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other flavors, such as strawberry, raspberry, or even blackberry. Choose a flavor that complements the peanut butter and gives you a new twist on the classic cookie.

Add Mix-ins:

For added texture, try mixing in chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even crushed pretzels. These additions will give your cookies a delightful crunch and additional flavor complexity.

Use Natural Peanut Butter:

For a more intense peanut flavor and a slightly different texture, opt for natural peanut butter. Just be aware that natural peanut butter may yield a slightly more crumbly texture, so ensure your dough is properly chilled before baking.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies


Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storing the Cookies:

To store your Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. These cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days. To maintain their softness, you can place a slice of bread in the container to help absorb any moisture and keep the cookies soft.

Freezing the Cookies:

For long-term storage, these cookies freeze well. After baking and cooling, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or bag and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw at room temperature.

Freezing the Dough:

If you prefer to bake the cookies later, you can freeze the dough. Portion out the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a couple of minutes to the bake time.

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies


Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

While Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies are delicious as they are, there are a few substitutions you can make to suit various dietary needs:

For Gluten-Free:

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Ensure the cake mix you use is also certified gluten-free.

For Vegan:

Replace the eggs with a flaxseed egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use a dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk for the frosting. For the jelly, check the label to ensure it doesn’t contain animal-derived gelatin.

For Low-Sugar or Keto:

You can make these cookies low-sugar by using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Choose a sugar-free jelly or make your own using fresh fruit and a sugar substitute.

For Nut-Free:

If you need to make these cookies nut-free, you can substitute the peanut butter with a sunbutter (sunflower seed butter) or another nut-free butter.


FAQs About The Recipe

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! If you prefer a bit of crunch in your cookies, feel free to use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter. The texture will be different, but the flavor will still be delicious.

What other types of jelly can I use?

While grape jelly is the classic option, you can use any jelly or fruit preserves you like. Strawberry, raspberry, and even peach jelly would work wonderfully.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes, you can replace the eggs with a flax egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan version of these cookies.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! Portion the dough into balls, freeze them until firm, and then store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.


Conclusion & Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies are a fun, sweet, and nostalgic twist on a classic flavor combination. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of soft, chewy cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies will be a hit. Enjoy the delicious mix of peanut butter and jelly in every bite!

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Favorite

If you’re a fan of the beloved peanut butter and jelly combo, then Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies are the perfect treat for you. Combining the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the sweetness of your favorite jelly, these cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors that take the traditional PB&J to the next level. They’re soft, chewy, and sure to bring comfort and nostalgia with every bite.

For more peanut butter-inspired recipes, check out Peanut Butter Cookies from Sally’s Baking Addiction or try a classic Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich recipe on Food Network.


Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies: Sweet, Soft, and Irresistible


  • Author: Jennifer Mitchell
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies combine the nostalgic flavors of peanut butter and jelly in a delicious, chewy cookie. With a rich peanut butter base, these cookies are filled with a dollop of your favorite jelly, creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory in every bite. These are a fun twist on the classic PB&J sandwich, ideal for a treat that everyone will love!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 1/2 cups creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup butter, salted or unsalted
  • 2/3 cup white sugar
  • 2/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup grape jelly, or your favorite flavor

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
  2. Prepare the Cookie Dough:

    • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
    • Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
  3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until combined.
  4. Shape the Cookies:

    • Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  5. Indent for the Jelly:

    • Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make an indentation in the center of each dough ball. The indent should be deep enough to hold a small spoonful of jelly but not so deep that the cookie falls apart.
  6. Add the Jelly:

    • Spoon about 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of grape jelly (or your preferred jelly flavor) into the center of each cookie, filling the indentation.
  7. Bake the Cookies:

    • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
    • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Serve these Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies with a glass of milk, or enjoy them as a fun snack or dessert for any occasion.

Notes

You can use any type of jelly or jam for the filling, such as strawberry, raspberry, or even apricot, to customize the flavor.

If you prefer a more indulgent cookie, add chocolate chips to the dough before baking for an extra layer of flavor.

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, or you can freeze them for longer storage.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Snack
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 17g
  • Sodium: 160mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 23g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking.
  2. Cream the Peanut Butter and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter and butter (both softened) using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until smooth and well combined.
  3. Add Sugar and Eggs: Add the white sugar and brown sugar to the peanut butter-butter mixture, beating until fluffy and light. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until the dough is just combined.
  5. Form the Dough Balls: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion out 1-inch balls of dough. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
  6. Create a Well for the Jelly: Using your thumb or a small spoon, make an indentation in the center of each cookie dough ball. Be careful not to press all the way through the dough.
  7. Add the Jelly: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of grape jelly (or your preferred jelly) into each indentation. Be sure not to overfill, as the jelly could spill over while baking.
  8. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The cookies may look soft when they come out, but they will firm up as they cool.
  9. Cool the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, these Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies are ready to be enjoyed. The sweet and savory combination of peanut butter and jelly will make every bite delicious!

Advanced Techniques for Perfect Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies

While this recipe is simple, you can make a few adjustments to elevate your Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies:

Chill the Dough:

If you prefer thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30-60 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape and prevents excessive spreading.

Experiment with Jellies:

While grape jelly is the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other flavors, such as strawberry, raspberry, or even blackberry. Choose a flavor that complements the peanut butter and gives you a new twist on the classic cookie.

Add Mix-ins:

For added texture, try mixing in chocolate chips, chopped peanuts, or even crushed pretzels. These additions will give your cookies a delightful crunch and additional flavor complexity.

Use Natural Peanut Butter:

For a more intense peanut flavor and a slightly different texture, opt for natural peanut butter. Just be aware that natural peanut butter may yield a slightly more crumbly texture, so ensure your dough is properly chilled before baking.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies


Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Storing the Cookies:

To store your Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. These cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days. To maintain their softness, you can place a slice of bread in the container to help absorb any moisture and keep the cookies soft.

Freezing the Cookies:

For long-term storage, these cookies freeze well. After baking and cooling, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or bag and store them for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, allow them to thaw at room temperature.

Freezing the Dough:

If you prefer to bake the cookies later, you can freeze the dough. Portion out the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until firm, then transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a couple of minutes to the bake time.

Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies


Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

While Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies are delicious as they are, there are a few substitutions you can make to suit various dietary needs:

For Gluten-Free:

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Ensure the cake mix you use is also certified gluten-free.

For Vegan:

Replace the eggs with a flaxseed egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water). Use a dairy-free butter and a plant-based milk for the frosting. For the jelly, check the label to ensure it doesn’t contain animal-derived gelatin.

For Low-Sugar or Keto:

You can make these cookies low-sugar by using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. Choose a sugar-free jelly or make your own using fresh fruit and a sugar substitute.

For Nut-Free:

If you need to make these cookies nut-free, you can substitute the peanut butter with a sunbutter (sunflower seed butter) or another nut-free butter.


FAQs About The Recipe

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes! If you prefer a bit of crunch in your cookies, feel free to use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter. The texture will be different, but the flavor will still be delicious.

What other types of jelly can I use?

While grape jelly is the classic option, you can use any jelly or fruit preserves you like. Strawberry, raspberry, and even peach jelly would work wonderfully.

Can I make these cookies without eggs?

Yes, you can replace the eggs with a flax egg substitute (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for a vegan version of these cookies.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! Portion the dough into balls, freeze them until firm, and then store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.


Conclusion & Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Jelly Cookies are a fun, sweet, and nostalgic twist on a classic flavor combination. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of soft, chewy cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a party, a holiday, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, these cookies will be a hit. Enjoy the delicious mix of peanut butter and jelly in every bite!

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