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Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Peanut Butter and Jelly Thumbprint Cookies Recipe

If you’re anything like me, peanut butter and jelly 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.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.