Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter blossom cookie, making them perfect for any Halloween celebration. With their fun appearance and delicious flavor, these cookies will be the star of your dessert table. The combination of creamy peanut butter and chocolate, along with the playful spider design, makes these cookies a treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Festive Appearance: The spider design is sure to impress at Halloween parties or gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich peanut butter and chocolate combination is a crowd-pleaser.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for school events, family gatherings, or simply as a fun baking project with kids.
• Customizable: You can adjust the toppings or experiment with different candies for unique variations.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking these Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, gather your tools and ensure your kitchen is ready for some fun!

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and ensures a smooth dough consistency.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep your ingredients organized while mixing.
• Baking sheets: Provides even heat distribution for perfect cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookie Dough

• 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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1. Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg and vanilla until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing it on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

Bake in preheated oven for about 8 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges. Remove from oven and immediately press a whopper into the center of each cookie while they are still warm.

Step 5: Add Chocolate Legs and Eyes

Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler. Using a piping bag or fork, drizzle melted chocolate around each whopper to create spider legs. Use white cake decorating gel to add eyes on top of each whopper.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks before serving. Enjoy your festive Peanut Butter Spider Cookies!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are not only visually appealing but also delicious. They make an excellent treat for Halloween parties or autumn gatherings. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Festive Cookie Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful platter with seasonal decorations like miniature pumpkins and autumn leaves for a festive touch.

Milk Pairing

• Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk. The creamy texture of peanut butter pairs perfectly with milk, enhancing the flavor.

Spider Themed Dessert Table

• Include these cookies in a spider-themed dessert table alongside other Halloween treats to create an inviting and spooky atmosphere.

Gift Boxes

• Package the cookies in clear gift boxes tied with orange ribbons. These make delightful homemade gifts for friends and family during the Halloween season.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Take two cookies and add a scoop of your favorite ice cream in between for a fun twist on traditional ice cream sandwiches.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

To ensure your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature to create a smooth batter and enhance the cookie’s texture.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies that lose their tender crumb.
• Chill the dough: If time allows, chill your dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and gives your cookies a thicker shape.
• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should be slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven; they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies can be complemented beautifully with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie to provide a savory contrast.
3. Pumpkin Soup: Serve warm pumpkin soup for a cozy pairing that enhances the autumn vibe of your dessert table.
4. Caramel Apples: These classic treats add a crunchy, sweet element that pairs well with peanut butter’s richness.
5. Trail Mix: A nutty trail mix offers an additional crunchy snack option that complements the cookie’s texture.
6. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination of chocolate-covered pretzels makes for an excellent side dish alongside these cookies.
7. Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate can make the experience even more delightful during chilly evenings.
8. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing treat that balances out the sweetness of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final outcome.

• Overmixing the dough – This can lead to tough cookies. Mix until ingredients are just combined for a softer texture.
• Using natural peanut butter – Natural peanut butter can change the texture of the cookies. Use creamy peanut butter for best results.
• Not chilling the dough – Chilling allows flavors to meld and helps cookies maintain their shape. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes if time permits.
• Skipping the rolling sugar step – Rolling in sugar adds extra sweetness and a nice crunch. Don’t skip this for that festive touch!
• Baking at incorrect temperatures – Always preheat your oven. An oven that’s too hot can burn the edges while leaving centers undercooked.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Warm individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
• Stovetop – Place cookies in a covered skillet over low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Peanut Butter Spider Cookies that you might find helpful.

How do I make Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?

To make these cookies, mix your dry ingredients separately, cream together butter and sugars, then add the egg and peanut butter. Combine everything and bake!

Can I customize my Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add different candies or use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet ones for a richer flavor.

How should I store leftover Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?

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

Can I freeze Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?

Yes, they freeze well! Just be sure to separate layers with parchment paper when storing in an airtight container.

What is the best way to decorate my cookies?

Use chocolate ganache for legs and eyes, and top with Whoppers for a fun Halloween twist!

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are not just delicious but also fun to make and decorate. With their unique appearance and delightful taste, they’re perfect for Halloween or any time you want a sweet treat. Feel free to customize them with your favorite candies or adapt the recipe as you please!