Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies are the ultimate treat that combines a rich, nutty flavor with a sweet surprise in the center. Picture soft, buttery cookies melting in your mouth, with a decadent dollop of jam or chocolate nestled right in the middle. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your family hovering around like bees to honey, eagerly anticipating each warm bite.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the best peanut butter to use?
- Can I use sugar substitutes?
- How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
- 📖 Recipe Card
These delightful cookies remind me of my childhood when my grandmother would bake them every Sunday. The sweet scent filled our home, and we would gather around the kitchen table, eagerly waiting for our favorite treat. Whether it was a cozy afternoon with friends or a festive holiday gathering, Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies always brought smiles and joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies are quick to make and require minimal ingredients
- The flavor balance of peanut butter and sweet filling is simply divine
- Their charming appearance makes them perfect for any occasion, from cookie swaps to casual family gatherings
- Versatile enough to switch fillings based on your preference or what you have on hand
I still remember the first time I made these cookies for a bake sale; my friends couldn’t get enough of them!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Peanut Butter: Go for creamy peanut butter for smooth mixing; chunky can add delightful texture.
Granulated Sugar: A must-have for sweetness; feel free to substitute half with brown sugar for extra moisture.
Brown Sugar: Adds depth and moisture; light or dark works well depending on your preference.
Egg: This binds everything together; choose room temperature eggs for easier incorporation.
Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the overall flavor; pure vanilla gives the best results.
Baking Soda: Provides lift, making sure your cookies don’t turn into frisbees.
Salt: Just a pinch balances sweetness and enhances all flavors present.
Your Favorite Jam or Chocolate Filling: Use raspberry jam for tartness, chocolate for indulgence—your choice!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies
Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Mix Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, combine peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until fully blended and smooth.
Scoop and Shape Dough Balls: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Roll each piece into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
Create Your Thumbprints: Using your thumb (or the back of a spoon), gently press down in the center of each ball to create an indentation. Be careful not to go too deep!
Add Your Filling: Spoon your chosen jam or melted chocolate into each thumbprint carefully. Aim for just enough to fill without overflowing.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the tray before transferring them to a wire rack.
Enjoy these delicious Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies fresh out of the oven or let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container!
You Must Know
- Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies are a delightful treat that combines rich peanut butter with sweet jelly
- The blend of textures and flavors makes them irresistible, perfect for any occasion, from casual snacking to festive gatherings
- These cookies are sure to impress friends and family alike
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming the peanut butter and sugar until fluffy. Then, mix in the egg and vanilla before forming dough balls. Bake until golden brown, then create thumbprints for the jelly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a unique twist. You can also experiment with different jams like raspberry or strawberry for varied flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them, and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use natural peanut butter for a creamier texture; avoid brands with added oils
- Make sure to chill the dough briefly before baking for better shape retention
- Always create deep enough thumbprints so the jelly doesn’t overflow during baking
Creating these cookies reminds me of childhood baking sessions with my grandma, where her laughter filled the kitchen as we made delightful messes together.
FAQ
What is the best peanut butter to use?
Natural peanut butter without added sugar or oils works best for flavor and texture.
Can I use sugar substitutes?
Yes, you can substitute with sugar alternatives like coconut sugar or stevia for a healthier option.
How do I prevent cookies from spreading too much?
Chill your cookie dough before baking to help maintain shape during cooking.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x
Description
Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies are a nostalgic treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with a sweet surprise in the center. These soft, buttery cookies are easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday cookie swap. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, they’re sure to delight everyone who tries them.
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/3 cup of your favorite jam or melted chocolate
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix together peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt until smooth.
- Scoop dough into 1-inch balls and place on the baking sheet. Create an indentation in each ball using your thumb.
- Fill each thumbprint with your chosen jam or melted chocolate.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden. Let cool on the tray before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
