If you’re anything like me, Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies Recipe is one of those comforting combos that never fails. I’ve always loved the nostalgic flavor of a PB&J sandwich, but lately, I’ve been experimenting with turning it into cookies—and oh, these thumbprint cookies are a game-changer.
They’re soft, buttery, packed with peanut butter flavor, and topped with a dollop of bright, fruity jam. You can also enjoy similar treats like Pumpkin Pie with Graham Cracker Crust Recipe for a sweet twist on classic desserts. I love making them for a quick snack or to bring along to a gathering because they always disappear fast!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these irresistible cookies. I’ve included some tips to make them turn out perfectly every time.
- 1 cup peanut butter (creamy or chunky, unsalted works best for controlled sweetness)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (helps keep the cookies soft and tender)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (adds a subtle caramel flavor and keeps the dough moist)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (balances the richness of peanut butter)
- 1 large egg (helps bind the dough together and gives a soft texture)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (don’t skip sifting for a lighter cookie)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (ensures a slight lift, keeping cookies soft)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (enhances the flavor of peanut butter)
- 1/3 cup strawberry jam (or any jam of your choice for filling)
Note: Serves about 24 cookies, depending on the size you make.
Variations
You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your dietary preferences or flavor cravings:
- Dairy-free: Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Sugar-free: Use a granulated sugar substitute that measures 1:1.
- Flavored twist: Swap peanut butter with almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Filling alternatives: Try chocolate spread, caramel, or citrus marmalade for a unique twist. You might also like fruity desserts like Mango Mousse with Whipped Cream Recipe for a creamy, tropical option.
Cooking Time
Here’s how long this recipe takes from start to finish:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Equipment You Need
Here’s the essential gear to make these cookies perfectly:
- Mixing bowl: For combining ingredients.
- Electric mixer or hand whisk: Makes blending peanut butter and butter easy.
- Baking sheet: For even baking of cookies.
- Parchment paper or silicone mat: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Spoon or cookie scoop: Helps portion dough consistently.
- Small spoon or piping bag: To fill cookies neatly with jam.
How to Make Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Prepare the Dough
Start by creaming together the peanut butter, butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated. Then gently fold in the flour, baking soda, and salt until the dough comes together.
Shape the Cookies
Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form 1-inch balls of dough. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space for spreading. Press your thumb gently into the center of each cookie to create a small well.
Add the Jam
Spoon your chosen jam into each thumbprint indentation. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam may spill during baking. This step gives the cookies their signature sweet center.
Bake the Cookies
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. The cookies should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the middle. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
From my experience, these tweaks make the cookies even more delicious:
- I like to chill the dough for 10 minutes if my kitchen is warm; it helps the cookies keep their shape.
- Using natural peanut butter gives a richer flavor, while creamy keeps the texture smooth.
- I sometimes sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top for a perfect sweet-salty balance.
- Always use fresh jam for the brightest flavor; old jam can taste flat.
How to Serve Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
These cookies are perfect as a snack, dessert, or part of a cookie platter. I like to arrange them on a cute plate, add a few fresh berries around them, and dust lightly with powdered sugar for a bakery-style presentation. They also pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee.
Nutritional Information
For a quick overview of what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: 130 per cookie
- Protein: 3g (thanks to the peanut butter)
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 7g
These numbers may vary slightly depending on the size of your cookies and the type of peanut butter or jam used.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Cookies
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and prevents the jam from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked cookie dough in a log or portioned balls for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
Warm cookies in a microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive softness, especially if they’ve been in the fridge.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why I keep making these cookies again and again:
- Quick and easy: Dough comes together in minutes, perfect for last-minute treats.
- Nostalgic flavor: PB&J lovers will adore this classic combination in cookie form.
- Versatile: Easy to swap nut butters or jams for your favorite flavors.
- Kid-friendly: Fun to make with little helpers and perfect for lunchboxes.
- Soft and chewy: The buttery cookie base pairs perfectly with sweet, fruity jam.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by creaming together the peanut butter, butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated. Then gently fold in the flour, baking soda, and salt until the dough comes together.
- Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form 1-inch balls of dough. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space for spreading. Press your thumb gently into the center of each cookie to create a small well.
- Spoon your chosen jam into each thumbprint indentation. Be careful not to overfill, as the jam may spill during baking. This step gives the cookies their signature sweet center.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. The cookies should be lightly golden at the edges but still soft in the middle. Let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- I like to chill the dough for 10 minutes if my kitchen is warm; it helps the cookies keep their shape.
- Using natural peanut butter gives a richer flavor, while creamy keeps the texture smooth.
- I sometimes sprinkle a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top for a perfect sweet-salty balance.
- Always use fresh jam for the brightest flavor; old jam can taste flat.