Do you remember rushing home from school, excited for the sweet smell in the kitchen? It was always a treat to find a peanut butter and jelly sandwich waiting. This mix of creamy peanut butter and sweet jelly is a favorite for many. Now, imagine turning this into mouthwatering peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies.
This article takes you on a tasty adventure. We’ll find the best thumbprint cookie recipe that elevates this classic duo. You’ll learn how to make homemade thumbprint cookies that bring back fond memories with every bite. Let’s explore these irresistible cookies that everyone will love!
Introduction to Thumbprint Cookies
Thumbprint cookies are a beloved treat in the world of classic cookie recipes. They are known for their unique shape and a delightful indentation filled with jam or jelly. These cookies have roots in various cultures and have evolved into many delicious variations.
These cookies are simple to make with basic ingredients from your pantry. You can get creative with different fillings, making them perfect for any event. They are a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or making holiday cookie trays.
Thumbprint cookies are more than just a tasty treat. They bring back memories of baking with loved ones. This recipe makes about 36 cookies, inviting you to share joy and sweetness with everyone.
The Nostalgic Peanut Butter and Jelly Combination
The pairing of peanut butter and jelly has won many hearts. It brings back happy memories from childhood. For many, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich was a comfort during lunch.
Today, this classic duo is in many dessert recipes. It’s especially loved in delicious thumbprint cookies.
This mix is more than just taste. It’s about the feelings it brings. The smooth peanut butter and sweet jelly mix reminds us of carefree times. Enjoying a peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookie feels like a warm hug from the past.
Peanut butter and jelly is very versatile. With just a few ingredients, you can make many desserts. From classic cookies to new recipes with different jams and nut butters, there’s always something new to try. You can choose between crunchy or creamy spreads, making every cookie unique.
| Recipe Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Servings | 28 |
| Preparation Time | 25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Calories per Serving | 135 |
| Total Fat per Serving | 6g |
| Protein per Serving | 2g |
| Carbohydrates per Serving | 18g |
| Sugar per Serving | 11g |
Why You’ll Love Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies
Peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies bring back happy memories. They mix a chewy texture with a sweet jam burst. This makes every bite exciting. The creamy peanut butter and fruity jelly mix is loved by many.
Making these cookies is easy and fun. You need simple ingredients like flour, peanut butter, and strawberry jelly. This means you can quickly make them. You can whip up these cookies in less than 30 minutes.
These cookies are also good for you, with about 183 calories each. They have protein and fats, making them a fulfilling snack. Making them quickly adds to the fun. Sharing these treats can spread happiness and create lasting memories.
In conclusion, peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies are a must-try. Their warm, sweet flavors will satisfy your cravings. They’re perfect for reminiscing or making new memories.
| Nutrition Facts per Serving (1 cookie) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 183 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 21 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Cholesterol | 16 mg |
| Sodium | 116 mg |
| Potassium | 108 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 16 g |
| Vitamin A | 94 IU |
| Vitamin C | 1 mg |
| Calcium | 20 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
Best Thumbprint Cookie Recipe Overview
Looking for a treat that captures the essence of homemade thumbprint cookies? This recipe is simple to make and packed with bold flavors.
Key Ingredients for Success
This recipe uses a mix of ingredients for a soft, chewy texture and great taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup strawberry jam (for filling)
Simple Preparation Steps
Making these cookies is easy and doesn’t need chilling. Just follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Combine peanut butter, brown sugar, white sugar, and eggs in a bowl until the mixture is smooth.
- Add salt, baking soda, and flour. Mix until combined.
- Drop tablespoon-sized dough onto a baking sheet. Make a well in the center with your thumb.
- Fill each well with strawberry jam.
- Bake for 15 to 17 minutes, until lightly golden.
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 13 minutes to bake. Total time is 23 minutes. You can store them in an airtight container for up to a week. They also freeze well for 2 to 3 months.
Enjoy your freshly baked homemade thumbprint cookies, full of flavor and nostalgia!
Steps for Making Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies
Making homemade thumbprint cookies is easy and fun. The combination of peanut butter and jelly creates a universally loved dessert.
Follow these straightforward steps to bake your own irresistible cookies.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Chilling Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours (includes chilling)
- Yield: 32 cookies
Begin with the dry ingredients. In a bowl, mix 1 1/4 cups (156g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Make sure to measure the flour right—use a kitchen scale for best results. For the wet ingredients, cream together 1/2 cup (113g) of unsalted butter, 1/2 cup (100g) of brown sugar, and 1/4 cup (50g) of granulated sugar. Add 1 large egg, 3/4 cup (195g) of creamy peanut butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients until smooth. Add 3/4 cup (110g) of finely chopped salted peanuts for crunch. Wrap the dough and chill it for at least 1 hour to blend flavors.
After chilling, shape the dough into small balls. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use your thumb or a similar object to make an indentation in each cookie. Fill the indentations with 6 Tablespoons (120g) of your favorite jam or jelly.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake the cookies for about 13 minutes or until they are lightly golden. For an extra touch, drizzle a mix of melted 4 ounces of white chocolate and 1 heaping Tablespoon of creamy peanut butter over the cooled cookies.
Let your homemade thumbprint cookies cool completely before storing. Enjoy the cookies within 2 days at room temperature or refrigerate them for up to a week. Unbaked cookie dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. With these easy steps, you’ll make delicious peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies that will impress everyone!
Ingredients You Need
To make peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies, you need the right ingredients. This ensures a delicious mix of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need for a rich, creamy cookie with a burst of jam.
Essential Baking Supplies
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheets
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Cookie scoop or spoon for portioning dough
- Parchment paper (optional)
Choosing the Right Jam or Jelly
Choosing the right jam or jelly is key. Raspberry is a classic, but you can also try:
- Strawberry
- Blueberry
- Apricot
- Peach
- Strawberry rhubarb
- Orange marmalade
Use homemade jam for a personal touch, or store-bought for ease. Each choice adds a special flavor, making these cookies the best you’ve ever had.
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup |
| Light brown sugar | ½ cup |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup |
| Creamy peanut butter | ¾ cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| All-purpose flour | 1½ cups |
| Baking soda | ¾ teaspoon |
| Baking powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Granulated sugar (for coating) | ½ cup |
| Jam or jelly of choice | ⅓ cup |
Easy PB&J Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making easy pb&j cookies is a fun experience. It’s easy to follow simple steps to get that nostalgic flavor. You’ll enjoy making and eating these cookies, with their perfect mix of soft and crunchy textures.
Mixing and Shaping the Dough
Start by getting your ingredients ready. You’ll need 2 cups of flour, ¼ teaspoon of sea salt, ¾ cup of unsalted butter, ⅓ cup of creamy peanut butter, ⅔ cup of powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, and ¼ to ⅓ cup of your favorite jam or jelly.
- Cream the butter, peanut butter, and powdered sugar until fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and mix well.
- Mix in the flour and salt until the dough forms.
- Chill the dough for 10 to 20 minutes.
- Shape into 1½-inch balls and flatten to ½ inch thick.
Baking Tips for Perfect Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Place the dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving enough space for spreading.
Use your thumb to make a small dent in each cookie. Fill it with ½ tablespoon of jam. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, until the edges are golden. Let them cool a bit before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. You’ll get 18 to 24 cookies, perfect for sharing.
| Task | Time Needed |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 to 10 minutes |
| Chill Time | 10 to 20 minutes |
| Bake Time | 13 to 15 minutes |
| Total Time | Approximately 42 minutes |
| Yield | 18 to 24 cookies |
Share these easy pb&j cookies with your loved ones. Try different jam flavors or add unique ingredients to make them your own.
Delicious Cookie Combinations to Explore
Trying out different cookie combinations can make your baking better. It turns the classic peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookie into something special. By mixing up jam flavors and adding new ingredients, you can make treats that everyone will love.
Using Different Flavors of Jam
Raspberry jam is common in thumbprint cookies, but trying others can be fun. Here are some ideas:
- Strawberry Jam: Sweet and a bit tart.
- Blueberry Preserves: Tangy with a bright color.
- Apricot Jam: Sweet and floral, great for a fancy taste.
- Peach Jam: Juicy and perfect for summer.
These changes not only taste better but also look great. Your cookies will be hard to resist.
Experimenting with Nuts and Spices
Adding nuts and spices can make your cookies even better. Here are some ideas:
- Chopped Pecans or Walnuts: Add crunch by mixing them into the dough or sprinkling on top.
- Cinnamon or Nutmeg: A little bit adds a warm, inviting smell.
- Cocoa Powder: Chocolate fans will love the rich flavor it adds.
These combinations make your cookies unique and show off your baking style. Making different thumbprint cookies can turn simple treats into amazing desserts that everyone will love.
| Jam Flavor | Taste Profile | Pairing Suggestions |
|---|---|---|
| Raspberry | Sweet and tart | Great with pecans |
| Strawberry | Classic and sweet | Complement with vanilla |
| Blueberry | Tangy and sweet | Goes well with cinnamon |
| Apricot | Floral and sweet | This pairs nicely with almond |
Thumbprint Cookie Variations
Exploring thumbprint cookie variations opens up a world of possibilities. Modify recipes to accommodate dietary preferences or restrictions. This way, everyone can enjoy this delightful treat. From gluten-free options to exciting chocolate additions, there’s something for everyone.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
For those seeking gluten-free options, almond flour or coconut flour can be used. Many brands offer gluten-free flour blends for baking. Vegan thumbprint cookies can be made with applesauce or coconut oil instead of butter. Maple syrup or agave can replace granulated sugar for a sweet treat that’s plant-based.
Creative Chocolate Additions
Chocolate lovers can elevate thumbprint cookies by adding cocoa powder to the dough. Or, create a decadent chocolate ganache to fill the thumbprint. Mixing in chocolate chips or using dark chocolate as the center filling adds a unique twist. Let your creativity run wild—the options are limitless when experimenting in the kitchen.
| Variation Type | Key Ingredient(s) | Nutritional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Almond flour, gluten-free flour blend | Lower in carbohydrates; suitable for gluten sensitivity |
| Vegan | Coconut oil, maple syrup | Dairy-free; plant-based sweetness |
| Chocolate Chip | Cocoa powder, chocolate chips | Rich in flavor; additional sweetness from chocolate |
Storing and Serving Your Thumbprint Cookies
Keeping your peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies fresh is key. You want every bite to be as good as the first. Here’s how to store them right and serve them with your favorite drinks.
Best Practices for Freshness
To maintain freshness, store your cookies in an airtight container to lock in flavor and texture.
- Let the cookies cool completely before storing to avoid moisture buildup.
- Use parchment paper between stacked layers to prevent sticking.
- Keep in a cool, dry place for up to five days.
- For longer preservation, refrigerate the dough itself for 3-5 days before baking or freeze the cookies to bake directly from the freezer, increasing baking time by 2-3 minutes.
Perfect Pairings with Beverages
Pair your thumbprint cookies with tasty drinks for an even better experience. Here are some great matches:
- Coffee: The rich flavor of coffee balances well with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Milk: A classic choice that offers creaminess alongside the nutty flavors of the cookies.
- Tea: Herbal or black teas can enhance the cookie experience with their varying profiles.
Try different drinks to find your favorite pairing.
PB&J Dessert Ideas Beyond Cookies
Looking for new ways to enjoy peanut butter and jelly? Many creative dessert recipes can spark your creativity. You can turn this classic combo into a variety of tasty treats that will wow your loved ones.
- Peanut Butter and Jelly Bars: These chewy bars are great for snacks or lunchboxes. Layer a peanut butter cookie base with your favorite jam and top with a peanut butter streusel.
- PB&J Cheesecake: Make a no-bake cheesecake with a graham cracker crust. Add a creamy peanut butter filling and a layer of fruit preserves. It’s a decadent twist on a timeless classic.
- Frozen PB&J Popsicles: Mix almond milk, peanut butter, and your favorite jelly for a cool summer treat. Pour into molds and freeze for a refreshing dessert.
These ideas let you explore endless possibilities, matching different tastes and preferences. Feel free to try new flavors and textures. You might create a new favorite dessert that beats the classic thumbprint cookie.
Conclusion
Peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies are more than just a tasty treat.
With a recipe rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 243 votes, it’s clear many love making these cookies.
These cookies are packed with protein from peanut butter and are gluten-free thanks to almond flour. This makes them a guilt-free indulgence. They’re perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a sweet treat without worrying about their diet.
These cookies are also super versatile. You can try vegan versions or use different nut butters to mix things up. Each batch makes two dozen cookies, which are just the right size for a quick snack or a sweet gift.
So, why not start baking some today? Think about the happy memories of peanut butter and jelly. Enjoy every bite of these cookies, knowing you’re creating new memories. They’re easy to make, bake quickly, and can be customized in countless ways. Baking these treats is sure to bring joy and a sense of nostalgia into your kitchen.
