Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter blossom cookie. These adorable treats are perfect for Halloween celebrations and can also be a fun addition to any festive gathering. With their rich peanut butter flavor, chocolate legs, and cute whopper eyes, these cookies are sure to impress kids and adults alike. Get ready to create a spooky yet delicious dessert that stands out at any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cookie recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and chocolate creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Festive Presentation: The addition of Whoppers and chocolate ganache transforms ordinary cookies into fun Halloween treats that look as good as they taste.
• Versatile Treat: While great for Halloween, these cookies can be enjoyed year-round or adapted for other festive occasions!
• Fun Activity: Making these cookies is a great way to involve kids in the kitchen, turning baking into a fun family activity.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Electric mixer
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without making a mess.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet ensures even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.
• Electric mixer: An electric mixer saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together.

Ingredients

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are the classic peanut butter blossom cookie with a festive twist. Add whoppers, chocolate ganache legs, and eyes for the perfect Halloween treat!

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). This ensures your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

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

Set this mixture aside.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl:
1. Combine softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar.
2. Use an electric mixer to cream them until light and fluffy.

Step 5: Add Egg and Peanut Butter

1. Beat in the egg until well combined.
2. Mix in creamy peanut butter and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

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

Step 7: Shape Cookies

1. Roll dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 8: Bake

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

Step 9: Add Whoppers

Immediately after removing from the oven, gently press one Whopper into the center of each cookie to create the spider body.

Step 10: Decorate with Chocolate Ganache

Melt semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave or over a double boiler, then drizzle or pipe legs coming from each Whopper using a piping bag or small ziplock bag with a corner snipped off. Use white cake decorating gel for eyes.

Allow cookies to cool completely before serving or storing! Enjoy your spooky treats!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are not just a treat; they are a festive delight perfect for Halloween gatherings. Here are some creative serving suggestions to ensure your cookies stand out.

For a Spooky Dessert Table

• Arrange on a decorative platter: Use a spooky-themed platter to emphasize the Halloween spirit.
• Add spooky decorations: Place plastic spiders or cobwebs around the cookies for an extra frightful touch.

With Milk or Hot Chocolate

• Classic milk pairing: Serve these cookies with cold milk to balance their sweetness.
• Warm hot chocolate: Pair with hot chocolate topped with whipped cream for a cozy treat.

As Party Favors

• Individually wrapped cookies: Wrap each cookie in clear cellophane and tie with orange ribbon for easy party favors.
• Cookie jars: Fill small jars with Spider Cookies for guests to take home, adding a fun label.

At Halloween Parties

• Display in themed containers: Use pumpkin-shaped bowls or cauldrons to serve the cookies at your Halloween bash.
• Include a cookie decorating station: Let guests decorate their own cookies with eyes and legs using additional chocolate and candies.

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How to Perfect Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

To make sure your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps the butter blend smoothly, resulting in better texture.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough for about an hour can prevent spreading during baking.
• Don’t overbake: Remove cookies when they are slightly underbaked; they will continue cooking on the baking sheet.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different candies or nuts for unique spider designs while keeping the essence of peanut butter intact.
• Store properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and softness.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies can be complemented by various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte – This warm, spiced drink adds a seasonal flavor that pairs well with sweet cookies.
2. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip – Crisp apple slices drizzled with caramel provide a refreshing contrast to the rich cookies.
3. Cheese Platter – Include sharp cheeses like cheddar or gouda to balance out the sweetness of the cookies.
4. Homemade Hot Cocoa – A rich hot cocoa topped with marshmallows makes for a delightful pairing during chilly evenings.
5. Spiced Nuts – Roasted spiced nuts bring a savory crunch that complements the soft texture of the cookies.
6. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad adds color and lightness, making it perfect alongside rich desserts.
7. Mini Pumpkin Muffins – These bite-sized treats echo seasonal flavors and create a festive spread.
8. Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is always a hit alongside warm cookies, especially if served fresh from the oven.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to keep your cookies perfect.

• Using Natural Peanut Butter: Natural peanut butter can alter the texture of your cookies. Stick to creamy peanut butter for the best results.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science. Use measuring cups and spoons for precise amounts to avoid dry or overly wet dough.
• Skipping Chilling Time: If you don’t chill the dough, your cookies may spread too much. Allow at least 30 minutes in the fridge before baking.
• Overbaking the Cookies: Keep an eye on the timer! Overbaking can lead to hard cookies instead of soft, chewy ones. Bake just until edges are golden.
• Neglecting the Decorations: The fun part of Peanut Butter Spider Cookies is the decoration. Don’t skip out on adding chocolate ganache legs and Whoppers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• • Container: Use a resealable plastic bag or a Tupperware container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Place cookies in a single layer between sheets of parchment paper inside a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm and soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie on medium power for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet on low heat and warm cookies for 1-2 minutes, covering with a lid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Peanut Butter Spider Cookies.

What makes Peanut Butter Spider Cookies special?

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies have a festive twist with their spider-like decorations, making them perfect for Halloween gatherings.

Can I substitute ingredients in Peanut Butter Spider Cookies?

Yes! You can use almond butter instead of peanut butter or swap chocolate chips for butterscotch chips if you prefer.

How do I make my cookies more chewy?

To enhance chewiness, try adding an extra egg yolk or using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in your recipe.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will last up to one week at room temperature or three months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are not only fun and festive but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with various toppings or flavors. Try this recipe and enjoy a delicious treat that everyone will love!