The Best Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookie Recipe
Peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies are a delightful twist on a classic treat. Combining the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of jelly, these cookies are perfect for snack time, dessert, or even a cozy afternoon tea. Follow this simple recipe to create a batch of scrumptious cookies that will have everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup of your favorite fruit jelly or jam
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to mix everything until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the peanut butter batter. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, take a portion of dough and roll it into a ball. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, press down gently in the center of each cookie to create a well.
Step 5: Fill with Jelly
Fill each thumbprint with about 1 teaspoon of your favorite jelly or jam. You can use grape, strawberry, or any other jam that you prefer for this recipe.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!
Tips for Perfect Cookies
- For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- Experiment with different varieties of jelly to find your perfect flavor combination.
- If you prefer a crunchier cookie, bake them a couple of minutes longer.
Storage
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Making peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies is a fun and easy way to indulge in a nostalgic flavor combination. Whether you're baking for yourself or sharing with friends and family, these cookies are sure to be a hit!