Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Soft and chewy Peanut Butter Spider Cookies topped with Reese’s, melted chocolate, and candy eyes are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. This fun and festive treat is perfect for Halloween parties or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a delightful dessert. The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate makes these cookies irresistible, while their spooky spider design adds a playful touch that kids and adults alike will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick steps, you can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Fun Decorations: The melted chocolate legs and candy eyes make these cookies a creative project for kids.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich taste of peanut butter combined with chocolate creates a mouthwatering treat.
• Perfect for Parties: These cookies are an eye-catching addition to Halloween parties or any festive celebration.
• Versatile Treat: You can easily customize the toppings or shapes to suit different occasions.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon
• Silicone baking mat or parchment paper
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Squeeze bottle or sandwich bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without spills.
• Electric mixer: This tool ensures your mixture is fluffy and well-blended in no time.
• Cookie scoop: Using a scoop helps create uniform cookie sizes for even baking.

Ingredients

Soft and chewy peanut butter cookies topped with Reese’s, melted chocolate, and candy eyes are both easy and fun to make. The perfect Halloween dessert for your next party!

Ingredients:
– ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter (1 stick, room temperature)
– ½ cup (107g) brown sugar
– ⅓ cup (66g) granulated sugar
– ¾ cup (201g) creamy peanut butter (not natural)
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups (180g) all purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– ½ tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– Granulated sugar (for rolling the cookies)
– Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
– 1/2 cup (85g) semi-sweet chocolate chips (for melting)
– Candy eyeballs

How to Make Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Reese’s Cups

Unwrap about 24 mini Reese’s cups, place them in a bowl, and put them in the freezer. This helps them maintain their shape when added to the hot cookies. Preheat the oven to 350ºF.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat with an electric mixer for about one minute until smooth and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Peanut Butter Mixture

Add in the creamy peanut butter, large egg, and vanilla extract. Beat again for less than one minute until combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

Add in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix on low speed or use a spatula just until combined. Be careful not to over mix.

Step 5: Form Cookie Balls

Use a small cookie scoop or tablespoon to form tablespoon-sized balls from the dough. Roll each ball between your hands to shape it uniformly, then roll it in granulated sugar. Place the cookies on a silicone-lined baking sheet, keeping them about 2–3 inches apart. Bake for 8–11 minutes or until the edges begin to crack and turn golden.

Step 6: Add Reese’s Cups

Remove the cookies from the oven and press a mini Reese’s cup into the center of each cookie. Allow them to cool for about 15–20 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 7: Melt Chocolate

Place the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on medium power for about three minutes, stirring after each minute until fully melted. Transfer this melted chocolate into a squeeze bottle or sandwich bag with one corner cut off.

Step 8: Decorate with Chocolate Legs

Draw four legs on each side of the cookies using melted chocolate. Attach candy eyeballs using a small amount of melted chocolate on their backs. Allow everything to set before moving the cookies to a serving platter.

Enjoy your spooky yet delicious Peanut Butter Spider Cookies!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are perfect for Halloween parties or any fun gathering. Their playful design and delicious flavor make them a hit with both kids and adults. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie experience.

Creative Platter Ideas

• Arrange cookies on a spooky-themed platter for a festive touch.
• Use decorative parchment paper with Halloween designs to line the platter.

Pairing with Beverages

• Serve with milk for a classic combination that kids will love.
• Offer a selection of flavored coffees or hot chocolate for the adults.

Adding Dips

• Include a small bowl of chocolate sauce for dipping, enhancing the rich chocolate flavor.
• Consider peanut butter or caramel sauce as an alternative dip option.

Surprise Treat Bags

• Package cookies in clear bags tied with orange ribbons for party favors.
• Add a small note with a fun Halloween message to each bag.

Themed Decorations

• Place plastic spiders around the cookie display for added creepiness.
• Use edible glitter on the cookies for a magical touch.

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Perfecting your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies is easy with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your cookies turn out great every time.

• Chill the dough: Letting the dough chill for 30 minutes helps prevent spreading, keeping your cookies thick and chewy.
• Use room temperature ingredients: This ensures even mixing and better texture in your cookies.
• Don’t overmix: Gently combine ingredients to maintain a soft texture; overmixing can lead to dense cookies.
• Watch baking time: Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking; pulling them out when edges crack is key to softness.
• Cool completely: Allow cookies to cool fully before decorating to prevent melted chocolate from running off.
• Decorate creatively: Use different candies or sprinkles for unique spider designs that add visual appeal.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

While Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are delightful on their own, pairing them with side dishes can create an amazing dessert spread. Here are some great options:

1. Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes: These festive treats complement the flavors of fall and Halloween perfectly.
2. Chocolate Pudding Cups: Rich and creamy, they offer a contrasting texture alongside chewy cookies.
3. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit adds a healthy balance, offering color and sweetness that pairs well with peanut butter.
4. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Light and fluffy donuts provide another sweet option that guests will adore.
5. S’mores Dip: This gooey dessert can be served warm alongside the cookies for dipping fun.
6. Candied Apples: A crunchy, sweet treat that adds variety while staying within the Halloween theme.
7. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual cheesecakes can be flavored like pumpkin or chocolate to match cookie themes.
8. Hot Apple Cider: A warm beverage that enhances holiday vibes and pairs well with sweet desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making peanut butter spider cookies can be a breeze, but avoiding common mistakes ensures a better outcome.

• Overmixing the dough – Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for soft and chewy results.
• Not chilling the Reese’s cups – If you don’t freeze the mini Reese’s cups, they can melt too much and lose shape. Always chill them before adding to warm cookies.
• Skipping the rolling in sugar – Rolling the cookie dough balls in granulated sugar adds a delightful crunch and sweetness. Don’t skip this step!
• Ignoring baking time – Baking too long will result in hard cookies. Keep an eye on them; they should be lightly golden at the edges.
• Moving cookies too soon – Transferring warm cookies can cause them to collapse. Allow them to cool properly before moving them to a rack.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store peanut butter spider cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

• Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag; they will stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, covering it with a lid for about 2-3 minutes to warm without drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are fun, Halloween-themed treats made with soft peanut butter cookies topped with Reese’s cups, chocolate, and candy eyes.

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.

How do I store leftover Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I customize my Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?

Absolutely! You can substitute mini chocolate candies or different types of nuts for variety while maintaining their fun spider theme.

Are these cookies suitable for parties?

Definitely! Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are perfect for Halloween parties and gatherings, bringing both fun and flavor!

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Their playful design makes them perfect for Halloween parties or any fun gathering. Feel free to get creative with toppings or even add different candies, ensuring each batch is unique!