Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter blossom cookie. These spooky treats are perfect for Halloween, featuring whoppers for a fun crunch and chocolate ganache legs and eyes that add a festive touch. They are not only delicious but also easy to make, making them ideal for parties, family gatherings, or just a fun baking session at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fun for All Ages: Baking these cookies is an enjoyable activity for kids and adults alike.
• Festive Presentation: The spider design makes them a standout treat at Halloween parties.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and chocolate is irresistible.
• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Treat: Great for various occasions beyond Halloween—think birthday parties or school events.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl is crucial for combining ingredients evenly.
• Baking sheet: A non-stick baking sheet ensures your cookies bake uniformly without sticking.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper makes it easy to remove cookies once baked without damage.

Ingredients

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies require simple ingredients that come together to create a delicious treat.

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 the 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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking soda
3. Baking powder

Whisk these together until well mixed.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, beat together:
1. Softened butter
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar

Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Egg and Peanut Butter

Add in:
1. Egg
2. Creamy peanut butter
3. Vanilla

Mix until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing it on the sheet.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies

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

Step 8: Decorate with Whoppers and Chocolate Ganache

Once cooled, press a whopper into the center of each cookie. Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips to create legs and eyes using a piping bag or small brush with the chocolate ganache.

Now you have spooky Peanut Butter Spider Cookies ready to impress! Enjoy creating these festive treats!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a delightful treat perfect for Halloween celebrations. Their spooky design makes them a fun addition to any gathering or party. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of these festive cookies.

Cookie Platter

• Arrange your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies on a colorful platter for an eye-catching display.
• Complement with other Halloween-themed treats, like ghost-shaped brownies or pumpkin cupcakes.

Treat Bags

• Package individual cookies in clear treat bags tied with orange and black ribbons.
• Great as party favors or classroom treats during Halloween festivities.

Dessert Table

• Include these cookies on a themed dessert table alongside spooky decorations.
• Pair with milk, hot chocolate, or a selection of seasonal beverages.

Cookie Decorating Station

• Set up a cookie decorating station where guests can add their own chocolate ganache legs and eyes.
• Provide extra toppings like sprinkles or colored icing for more creativity.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

To ensure your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies come out perfectly every time, consider these tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

• Measure accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons for precise ingredient amounts, ensuring consistent results.
• Room temperature ingredients: Let butter and egg sit out beforehand so they mix more easily into the dough.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes; this helps prevent spreading while baking.
• Don’t overbake: Watch your cookies closely in the oven; they should look slightly soft when you take them out to maintain a chewy texture.
• Use high-quality chocolate: Opt for good semi-sweet chocolate chips for rich flavor that complements the peanut butter.
• Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

While Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are delightful on their own, pairing them with certain side dishes can enhance the overall experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies. Consider using apples, grapes, and berries.

2. Mini Pumpkin Pies
   These bite-sized desserts capture fall flavors and make a lovely complement to rich peanut butter cookies.

3. Cheese Platter
   A variety of cheeses can balance the sweetness of the cookies; include sharp cheddar or creamy brie for variety.

4. Caramel Apples
   The crunchy apples coated in caramel provide a fun and festive touch that pairs well with the spider theme.

5. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels
   The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate offers a great contrast to the soft, sweet cookies.

6. Spooky Brownies
   Fudge brownies decorated with Halloween themes can add an extra layer of fun to your dessert spread.

7. Hot Chocolate Bar
   Set up a hot chocolate station with various toppings like whipped cream, marshmallows, and candy corn for festive drinks alongside your cookies.

8. Pumpkin Spice Muffins
   Soft muffins bursting with warm spices make a cozy addition that enhances any Halloween gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter Spider Cookies can be fun, but there are common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Using Natural Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter may not provide the right texture or sweetness. Stick with creamy peanut butter for best results.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: Don’t skip chilling the dough. It helps prevent spreading during baking, leading to better-shaped cookies.
• Overbaking: Cookies can dry out quickly if overbaked. Keep an eye on them and take them out as soon as they’re lightly golden.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Ignoring Topping Instructions: Make sure to add the whoppers and chocolate ganache as directed. They enhance the cookie’s festive look.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Always use softened butter and eggs at room temperature. This ensures a smooth dough that incorporates air well.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

• Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.
• For best results, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.

Reheating Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place on a skillet over low heat for about 1 minute, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Spider Cookies.

How do I make my Peanut Butter Spider Cookies more festive?

You can add colored sprinkles or candy eyes along with the chocolate ganache legs for a more vibrant look!

Can I substitute other types of nut butter?

Yes, but keep in mind that different nut butters may alter the flavor and texture of your cookies.

How should I store leftover Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

What is the best way to decorate these cookies?

Use chocolate ganache for legs and a small amount of white cake decorating gel for eyes. This adds a spooky touch!

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for Halloween gatherings. Feel free to customize with different toppings or mix-ins like nuts or candies. Try this recipe today and enjoy a fun baking experience!

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Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

Indulge in the fun of Halloween with these delightful Peanut Butter Spider Cookies! A playful twist on the classic peanut butter blossom, these spooky treats feature a crunchy whopper centerpiece and whimsical chocolate ganache legs and eyes. Perfect for family gatherings or festive parties, they’re simple to whip up and sure to impress. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the irresistible combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate, making these cookies a must-have for any Halloween celebration.

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Ingredients

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• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ cup softened salted butter
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 44 whoppers
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
3. In another bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Mix in the egg, peanut butter, and vanilla until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
6. Roll dough into balls and coat in granulated sugar before placing on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake for about 8 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
8. Once cooled, press a whopper into each cookie center and decorate with melted chocolate for spider legs and eyes.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
• Calories: 140
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 90mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 15mg