Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic peanut butter blossom cookie with a spooky Halloween twist. These cookies are not only fun to make but also perfect for sharing at parties, school events, or family gatherings. With their chocolate ganache legs and whoppers, they stand out as a festive dessert that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun and Festive: These cookies bring the spirit of Halloween to your kitchen with their creative spider design.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
• Great for Sharing: Bake a batch and share them at gatherings; they’re sure to be a hit among friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the fun part of baking, gather your tools! Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients efficiently.
• Baking sheet: A good quality baking sheet ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve the perfect creamy texture for your cookie dough quickly.

Ingredients

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies require a few key ingredients that come together to create this spooky delight.

For the Cookies

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ cup salted butter (softened)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter (not natural)
• 1 tsp vanilla

For Decoration

• 44 whoppers
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (6 ounces)
• 1 small tube white cake decorating gel
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

How to Make Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Follow these simple steps to create your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your cookie dough is prepared.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2. ½ tsp baking soda
3. ½ tsp baking powder

Whisk these together until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, use an electric mixer to beat:
1. ½ cup softened salted butter until creamy.
2. Add in ½ cup granulated sugar and ½ cup brown sugar. Mix until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Egg, Peanut Butter, and Vanilla

To the creamed mixture, add:
1. 1 egg,
2. ½ cup creamy peanut butter,
3. And 1 tsp vanilla.

Mix until combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Roll dough into balls about one inch in diameter. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.

Step 9: Decorate with Whoppers

Immediately after taking them out of the oven, press one whopper into the center of each cookie while they are still warm.

Step 10: Create Legs with Chocolate Ganache

Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth. Use a piping bag or a fork to create spider legs by drizzling chocolate around each cookie.

Step 11: Finish with Eyes

Use white cake decorating gel to add eyes on top of each whopper once the chocolate has set slightly.

Let your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies cool before serving them up at your next Halloween party! Enjoy this fun treat!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for Halloween parties or cozy family gatherings, these cookies bring joy and a fun twist to any occasion.

Creative Platter Ideas

• Halloween Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a spooky-themed platter with fake spiders and cobwebs for a festive display.
• Milk and Cookie Station: Set up a milk station with different flavors like chocolate and almond milk for dipping.

Pairing Suggestions

• Pumpkin Spice Latte: The warm spices in this drink complement the rich peanut butter flavor perfectly.
• Hot Chocolate: Serve with marshmallows on top for a comforting pairing that kids will love.

Fun Packaging Options

• Cellophane Bags: Place cookies in clear bags tied with orange ribbons for party favors.
• Decorative Boxes: Fill small boxes with cookies and decorate them with Halloween stickers for an extra touch.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Achieving the perfect Peanut Butter Spider Cookies is all about technique and attention to detail. With these tips, you’ll ensure every batch comes out deliciously!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Do Not Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain their shape.
• Watch Baking Time: Bake until edges are set but centers are still soft; they will continue to cook on the tray after removing them from the oven.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies pair wonderfully with several side dishes that enhance their flavor. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness to your dessert table.
2. Cheese Platter: Complement sweet flavors with a variety of cheeses; consider adding honey or jams.
3. Veggie Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy veggies offer a healthy contrast alongside the rich cookies.
4. Popcorn Mix: Create a fun popcorn mix using chocolate drizzled popcorn and candy corn for added sweetness.
5. Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Offer toppings like sprinkles, nuts, and whipped cream to create custom sundaes that kids will adore.
6. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: Combine salty with sweet by serving pretzels coated in chocolate as a crunchy side snack.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, avoid these common mistakes.

• Using Natural Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter can alter the texture of your cookies. Stick to creamy peanut butter for consistent results.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Incorrect flour measurement can lead to dry or crumbly cookies. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measuring.
• Overbaking: Baking too long can result in hard cookies. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes of baking for perfect softness.
• Skipping Chilling Time: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading. Allow the dough to chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Neglecting Decoration: The fun part of Peanut Butter Spider Cookies is decorating! Don’t skip adding legs and eyes for that festive touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Warm cookies for about 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Peanut Butter Spider Cookies.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

You can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer texture. Just keep in mind it may alter the overall consistency slightly.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How can I customize my Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?

Feel free to add different candies or sprinkles to personalize your cookies. M&Ms or candy corn would be fun additions!

What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky, refrigerate it longer or gradually add more flour until it’s manageable.

How many cookies does this recipe yield?

This recipe yields approximately 22 delicious Peanut Butter Spider Cookies.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies combine classic flavors with festive fun, making them perfect for Halloween celebrations. Their versatility allows you to customize decorations and flavors according to your taste. Try them today and enjoy this delightful treat!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 22 cookies 1x

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Description

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are an enchanting twist on the classic peanut butter blossom cookie, making them the perfect treat for Halloween festivities. These creatively designed cookies feature a delightful combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, topped with whimsical chocolate ganache spider legs and festive Whoppers for eyes. Easy to prepare and fun to decorate, they are sure to be a hit at parties, school events, or cozy family gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ cup salted butter (softened)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter (not natural)
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 44 Whoppers (for decoration)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (6 ounces)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, beat softened butter until creamy; then add granulated sugar and brown sugar until fluffy.
4. Mix in the egg, peanut butter, and vanilla until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Roll dough into one-inch balls and coat in granulated sugar before placing on the baking sheet.
7. Bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
8. Press a Whopper into each cookie while warm; drizzle melted chocolate around cookies for spider legs.
9. Add eyes using white cake decorating gel once chocolate sets.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 28g)
• Calories: 120
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 85mg
• Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 15mg