Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies are the ultimate comfort treat! The peanut butter dough is soft and chewy, and the jam in the center adds a fruity sweetness that perfectly balances the richness of the peanut butter. The thumbprint shape makes them fun to make and eat. With only a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers. These cookies also bring a sense of nostalgia, making them a perfect option for family gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy snack at home.

Ingredients

For these delicious PB & J Thumbprint Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

1 cup (240g) creamy peanut butter (use natural or your preferred kind)
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups (150g) all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/3 cup of your favorite jam or jelly (grape, raspberry, or strawberry work great)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Add the Sugars: Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, and beat until the mixture is fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is fully incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Shape the Dough: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place it onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.
Create Thumbprint Indentations: Using your thumb (or the back of a teaspoon), press a small indentation in the center of each cookie ball to create a space for the jam.
Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges.

Step 3: Add the Jelly

Re-Press the Indentations: As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently re-press the thumbprint indentations if they’ve puffed up during baking.
Add the Jelly: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of jelly or jam into each thumbprint while the cookies are still warm.
Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 24 servings (cookies)

Variations

Chocolate Peanut Butter Jam Thumbprints: Add a small piece of chocolate or drizzle chocolate over the cookies after they’ve cooled for a richer, indulgent treat.
Nutty Peanut Butter Thumbprints: Add finely chopped peanuts to the dough for extra crunch and texture.
Different Jam Flavors: Experiment with different jams or preserves like apricot, blackberry, or peach to give your thumbprints a new twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store these thumbprint cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Freezing: To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat the cookies in the microwave for a few seconds to soften them, or enjoy them straight from the container!

FAQs

1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used in place of creamy peanut butter for a different texture, though it may affect the smoothness of the dough.

2. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version of these cookies.

3. Can I use a different type of nut butter?

Yes, almond butter or cashew butter can be used in place of peanut butter for a different flavor, though it may alter the texture slightly.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow the dough to soften slightly before rolling into balls and baking.

5. How can I make the thumbprints perfect every time?

If the indentation is not deep enough, simply press again when they come out of the oven. Also, make sure to not overbake them for the perfect chewy texture.

6. Can I use store-bought jam?

Yes, store-bought jam works perfectly. Just choose your favorite flavor, or use homemade jam for a more personalized touch.

7. Can I make these cookies without an egg?

Yes, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or another egg substitute for a vegan option.

8. Can I use different sweeteners instead of granulated and brown sugar?

Yes, you can substitute with coconut sugar, maple syrup, or other sweeteners. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the texture of the dough.

9. Can I make these cookies smaller?

Yes, you can adjust the size of the cookies if you prefer smaller bites. Just adjust the baking time accordingly (they may bake quicker).

10. How do I prevent the jam from spilling over during baking?

Make sure the indentation is deep enough, and don’t overfill the jam. This will help prevent overflow while baking.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies are a nostalgic and delicious treat with a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. The combination of creamy peanut butter and fruity jam creates a perfectly chewy cookie that everyone will love. Easy to make and fun to eat, these cookies are perfect for sharing at any event or enjoying as a sweet snack at home. Enjoy the perfect PB & J bite in cookie form!

Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies

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Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet burst of fruit jam, creating a nostalgic and delicious treat. These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for dessert, parties, or a sweet snack.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 24 servings (cookies)
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth and creamy.
Add the Sugars: Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, and beat until the mixture is fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
Add Egg and Vanilla: Mix in the egg and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is fully incorporated.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Dough: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Place it onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing the cookies about 2 inches apart.
Create Thumbprint Indentations: Using your thumb (or the back of a teaspoon), press a small indentation in the center of each cookie ball to create a space for the jam.
Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until they are lightly golden around the edges.
Re-Press the Indentations: As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently re-press the thumbprint indentations if they’ve puffed up during baking.
Add the Jelly: Spoon about 1/2 teaspoon of jelly or jam into each thumbprint while the cookies are still warm.
Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.