Name: Peanut Butter Spider Cookies That Will Delight Your Family
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 46 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup Unsalted butter (at room temperature); 0.5 cup Brown sugar; 0.33 cup Granulated sugar; 0.75 cup Creamy peanut butter (not natural); 1 large Egg; 1 tsp Vanilla extract; 1.5 cups All-purpose flour; 1 tsp Baking soda; 0.5 tsp Baking powder; 0.5 tsp Salt; Granulated sugar (for rolling); 24 Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (chilled); 0.5 cup Semi-sweet chocolate chips; Candy eyeballs (for decoration)

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Walking through the aisles of the grocery store, I was struck by a playful idea: what if cookies could come to life in a fantastical way? Enter my Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, a whimsical twist on classic peanut butter delights that are sure to bring a smile to both kids and adults alike. This recipe not only satisfies your craving for something sweet but also gives you a chance to flex your creativity in the kitchen. With a quick prep time of just 15 minutes and a sprinkling of chocolate and candy eyes, these cookies turn ordinary afternoons into fun moments. Imagine serving a batch at your next gathering and watching everyone squeal in delight! Ready to create some spooky yet scrumptious treats? Let's dive into this delicious adventure together!

Why Are These Cookies So Unique?

Whimsical charm: These Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are not just tasty but also visually stunning, making them a fantastic surprise for parties or festive gatherings.

Quick and easy: With only 15 minutes of prep time, whipping up these fun treats is a breeze, perfect for anyone busy yet craving homemade goodness.

Kid-approved: Kids will love the fun spider theme, ensuring these cookies are a highlight at any event—plus, they can help with the decorating!

Flavorful twist: The creamy peanut butter pairs perfectly with chocolatey Reese’s, creating a rich flavor profile that's simply irresistible.

Versatile option: Great for Halloween, parties, or just because—these cookies suit any occasion! Looking for more fun treats? Try Monster Cookies for another crowd-pleaser!

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Unsalted butter – ½ cup (113g), at room temperature for a creamy texture.
Brown sugar – ½ cup (107g), adds moisture and depth to your cookies.
Granulated sugar – ⅓ cup (66g), helps create a crispy edge.
Creamy peanut butter – ¾ cup (201g), not natural, for that rich, nutty flavor.
Large egg – 1, binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
Vanilla extract – 1 tsp, for a hint of warmth and sweetness.
All-purpose flour – 1 ½ cups (180g), forms the base of your cookie dough.
Baking soda – 1 tsp, gives rise to those fluffy cookies.
Baking powder – ½ tsp, helps the cookies puff up perfectly.
Salt – ½ tsp, enhances the flavors in the dough.

For Rolling and Topping

Granulated sugar – for rolling the cookies, gives a delightful crunch.
Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups – 24, chilled for the perfect “spider” body.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips – ½ cup (85g), for melting and decorating.
Candy eyeballs – for a fun finishing touch that makes your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies come alive!

Get ready to impress your friends and family with these whimsical treats!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Step 1: Chill the Reese’s Cups
Start by placing 24 Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This will ensure they stay firm and hold their shape when you incorporate them into your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, giving the perfect “spider” effect and a delightful surprise in every bite.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven
While the Reese’s cups chill, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step for ensuring your cookies bake evenly. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, which prevents the cookies from sticking and allows for easy cleanup later.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of room-temperature unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ⅓ cup of granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This process aerates the butter, which is key for fluffy cookies and helps create a lovely texture.

Step 4: Add Peanut Butter and Egg
Next, add ¾ cup of creamy peanut butter, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat the ingredients together on medium speed until fully combined and creamy, roughly 1-2 minutes. The aroma will be delightful, and you’ll see it transform into a luscious, velvety batter perfect for your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can toughen the dough. The dough will be soft but moldable.

Step 6: Shape the Cookie Dough
Using a tablespoon, scoop out portions of the dough and roll them into balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar to give them a delightful sparkle, then place them spaced apart on the prepared baking sheet. The sugar coating adds a lovely crunch to your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8 to 11 minutes. They should look slightly underbaked in the center when you take them out, as they will continue to set while cooling. Watch for a light golden edge to indicate they are ready to come out.

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 15 to 20 minutes. This setting time is vital; they will firm up and be easier to handle. After cooling, gently transfer each cookie to a wire rack to cool completely, where they will be perfect for decorating.

Step 9: Melt the Chocolate Chips
While the cookies cool, place ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave for 30 seconds, then stir. Continue heating in 15-second intervals, stirring until the chocolate is fully melted and smooth. This melted chocolate will be your glue for decorating.

Step 10: Decorate with Spider Legs
Using a squeeze bottle or a piping bag, carefully draw four legs on each side of the cookies with the melted chocolate. Let the chocolate cool slightly as you decorate, creating a fun spider look that will bring these Peanut Butter Spider Cookies to life.

Step 11: Attach the Candy Eyes
Finally, use a small amount of the melted chocolate to attach candy eyeballs to each Reese’s Cup on the cookies. Allow the chocolate to set completely before serving, ensuring your whimsical Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are ready to charm everyone at your gathering!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Chill the Reese’s: Make sure to chill the Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups beforehand. This keeps them firm and helps maintain their shape during baking.

Avoid Overmixing: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of soft, fluffy Peanut Butter Spider Cookies.

Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. They should be slightly underbaked in the center; they will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper makes for easy removal of the cookies and prevents them from sticking, ensuring your treats come out perfectly.

Melt Chocolate Carefully: When melting the chocolate chips, stir every 30 seconds to prevent burning. Smooth, melted chocolate is key for creating those fun spider legs!

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Room Temperature: Keep your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and deliciousness.

Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, store the cookies in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well-wrapped to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick 10-15 seconds to revive their softness.

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine with these tasty twists on the classic recipe!

Nut-Free: Switch the peanut butter for sunflower seed butter to create an equally delicious alternative for those with nut allergies.
Chocolate Lovers: Replace half of the creamy peanut butter with chocolate peanut butter for a rich, double chocolate hit that will delight your taste buds!
Whole Wheat: Try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier twist. This variation not only adds a nutty flavor but also increases fiber content!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the cookie dough for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use vegan butter to keep it completely plant-based.
Mini Cookie Version: Make mini versions of these cookies by scooping smaller balls of dough and reducing the baking time, creating delightful bite-sized treats.
Multiple Toppings: Swap the Reese's Cups for assorted candies like chocolate-covered almonds or marshmallows for a fun variety of toppings—who says spiders can’t be extra cute?
Decorative Sprinkles: Add a splash of colorful sprinkles on top of the cookies after decorating with chocolate to enhance the festive spirit—perfect for parties or Halloween!

Let your imagination run wild and enjoy these delightful variations that can put a new spin on your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies. For another fun treat to try, check out my easy Chocolate Chip Cookies recipe that the whole family will enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply follow the recipe steps up to shaping the dough balls. After rolling them in granulated sugar, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. To maintain their quality, ensure they're well-wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the preheated oven as directed. This way, you’ll have freshly baked, whimsical Peanut Butter Spider Cookies with minimal effort—perfect for surprising your family or guests on short notice!

What to Serve with Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Imagine a cozy gathering filled with laughter, delicious aromas wafting through the air, and festive treats that make everyone feel like a kid again.

Milk:
The classic pairing with cookies, a cold glass of milk enhances the rich peanut butter flavor and balances sweetness.
Ice Cream Sandwich:
Create mini ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream between two cookies for a delightful treat.
Chocolate-Covered Pretzels:
The crunch and salty-sweet contrast of chocolate-covered pretzels provide an interesting texture that's a perfect match for these whimsical cookies.
Fruit Salad:
A refreshing fruit salad made with vibrant berries and juicy melons brings brightness to the dessert table, creating a delightful contrast to the cookies' richness.
Hot Cocoa:
Serve with steaming mugs of creamy hot cocoa topped with marshmallows for a comforting, cozy treat that everyone can enjoy together.
Peanut Butter Cup Milkshake:
Blend vanilla ice cream, milk, and extra peanut butter cups for a decadent milkshake that complements the flavors of your cookies while adding a fun twist.
S'mores Dip:
A gooey s’mores dip made with chocolate and marshmallows pairs wonderfully with cookie crumbles for an indulgent dessert experience.
Caramel Sauce:
Drizzle warm caramel sauce on each cookie to add an extra layer of indulgence that enhances the flavors of peanut butter and chocolate.

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies Recipe FAQs

What kind of peanut butter is best for these cookies?
I recommend using creamy peanut butter that is not natural, as it has the perfect consistency and sweetness that helps create a rich and flavorful dough. Natural peanut butter can alter the texture of your cookies, making them overly crumbly.

How should I store Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?
You can keep your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, consider placing them in the refrigerator, where they’ll last up to a week. Remember to wrap them well to retain their soft texture!

Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! To freeze your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once they’re firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, where they can stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their delightful softness.

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, it may be due to overmixing the dough or not chilling the Reese’s Cups long enough. Ensure that your dough is mixed just until combined, and keep those delicious peanut butter cups chilled to help maintain shape during baking.

Are these cookies safe for pets?
No, peanut butter can be harmful to dogs if it contains xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to them. Make sure to keep these Peanut Butter Spider Cookies out of reach of pets, and if you're looking for pet-friendly treats, consider making a batch of homemade dog treats instead!