Name: Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup peanut butter; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup light brown sugar; ⅔ cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 ½ cups flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2 cups powdered sugar; ¾ cup strawberry preserves

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 68 reviews

If you have a weakness for cookies that combine nostalgia with a twist, then you are going to absolutely adore this Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe. These soft, thick cookies are perfectly balanced with rich peanut butter flavor, an irresistible creamy frosting, and a luscious dollop of strawberry jelly right at the heart. It’s like your favorite childhood sandwich transformed into a heavenly dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re baking for a treat or a special occasion, these cookies deliver joy in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with two layers of batter mixture. The bottom layer is a light tan color with a smooth texture spread evenly across the bowl, while the top layer is a thicker, darker brown dollop placed roughly in the center. Two silver metal beaters rest inside the bowl, partially immersed in the batter, as if mid-mixing. Near the bottom left corner of the image, there is a small white bowl filled with a thick, dark red sauce or jam visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Nothing complicated here—just simple pantry staples that come together beautifully to create that perfect texture and burst of flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from softness to sweetness to that perfect peanut butter punch.

Peanut butter (1 cup): The star of the show, adding creamy richness and unmistakable flavor.
Unsalted butter (1 cup, softened + extra for frosting): Provides moisture and tenderness for the cookie base and smooth frosting.
Light brown sugar (1 cup): Adds subtle caramel notes to deepen the cookie’s flavor.
Sugar (⅔ cup): Balances sweetness and helps with the perfect cookie texture.
Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and contribute to cookie structure.
Pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors with a warm, fragrant undertone.
Flour (2 ½ cups): The foundation that gives these cookies their soft, chewy body.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Works with baking soda to give lift and lightness.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps create a tender crumb and lovely browning on the edges.
Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): Keeps cookies pillowy and soft even after cooling.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential to balance the sweetness and enhance peanut butter flavor.
Creamy peanut butter (½ cup for frosting): Intensifies that peanut butter goodness in the frosting layer.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): Used in the frosting for a silky, smooth texture.
Strawberry preserves (¾ cup): The fruity surprise filling that brings the jelly element to life.

How to Make Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare for success

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180ºC) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This simple act ensures your cookies bake evenly and release easily, giving you a perfect cookie shape every time.

Step 2: Cream the butter and sugars

In a stand mixer, blend together the softened butter, peanut butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy. This step is crucial because that creamy mix is the backbone for soft, tender cookies brimming with peanut butter flavor.

Step 3: Add eggs and vanilla

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition so everything incorporates smoothly. Then stir in the vanilla extract – this little splash will take your cookie flavor from good to absolutely irresistible.

Step 4: Mix dry ingredients

Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt in a separate bowl. These dry elements work harmoniously, creating that perfect balance of rise and tenderness for your cookie texture.

Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mix, stirring just until combined. Be careful to avoid overmixing, which can cause tough cookies. The dough should be soft and thick, ready to shape.

Step 6: Shape and bake

Scoop the dough into balls and place them on the baking sheets, gently flattening each into a thick disc. Pop them into the oven for 12-15 minutes until the edges get a slight golden hue. Once baked, let them cool completely right on the baking sheet for best results.

Step 7: Make the peanut butter frosting

In a clean mixer bowl, beat the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and powdered sugar together until smooth and thick. This frosting is going to add that creamy, luscious layer that transforms these cookies into a delight.

Step 8: Pipe the frosting and fill with jelly

Transfer the frosting into a piping bag and swirl a generous spiral onto each cooled cookie, leaving a small well in the center for the jelly. Then, using a second piping bag filled with strawberry preserves, add a sweet, colorful swirl right into the frosting center. This final touch makes all the magic happen.

How to Serve Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe

The image shows six round cookies placed on crumpled white paper over a white marbled surface. Each cookie has two visible layers: a light brown base and a dark reddish-brown spiral swirl on top that looks smooth and glossy. At the top left of the image, there is a small white bowl filled with thick light brown spread with a visible swirl pattern on its surface. At the bottom left, there is a smaller white bowl containing dark reddish-brown spread with a spoon inside it. Near the center bottom, there is a beige piping bag lying flat, slightly crumpled, adding a soft texture. The overall scene has soft lighting and a clean, simple background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a fun twist, try sprinkling a few crushed peanuts or a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the jelly swirl—it enhances the texture and adds a little crunch and contrast that’s just divine. Fresh strawberry slices could also brighten the presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk or a creamy vanilla latte to complement the rich peanut butter flavor. They also go surprisingly well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a playful dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these cookies on a wooden platter lined with a colorful napkin for a cozy, inviting vibe. For parties, arrange them in layered cookie towers or place each cookie in a small decorative paper cup and tie with a ribbon for a charming gift or party favor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and fresh, preserving the delicious peanut butter and jelly flavors in every bite.

Freezing

If you want to save your cookies for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 months, ready whenever a craving hits.

Reheating

To bring frozen cookies back to life, let them thaw at room temperature for 20 minutes and then gently warm them in a low oven (about 300°F) for 5 minutes. This revives the softness and reactivates that melty frosting bliss.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

You absolutely can! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture and nuttiness inside the cookie, which some people love. Just keep in mind the frosting is best with creamy peanut butter for a smooth finish.

Is there a way to make these cookies gluten-free?

For sure—try substituting a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious, with that perfect tender crumb.

Can I swap the strawberry preserves for another flavor?

Definitely! Raspberry, grape, or even apricot preserves make wonderful alternatives. Each will give your cookies a unique twist while keeping the classic peanut butter and jelly vibe.

How long do these cookies stay fresh?

At room temperature, they’re best enjoyed within 3 days, but since they freeze well, you can always save leftovers for several weeks in the freezer.

What’s the secret to making the frosting so smooth?

The key is using softened butter and creamy peanut butter, then beating them thoroughly with powdered sugar until they reach a light, airy texture. This ensures easy piping and delightful mouthfeel.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to bake something that’s truly special yet wonderfully familiar, go ahead and dive into the Copycat Crumbl Peanut Butter and Jelly Cookies Recipe. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and creativity that will have you smiling from the first bite to the last crumb. Trust me—once you try these, they’ll be your new go-to cookie for every craving or celebration.