Peanut Butter Spider Cookies (Printer-Friendly)

Soft peanut butter cookies shaped with mini peanut butter cups and pretzel sticks for a fun festive touch.

# List of Ingredients:

→ For the Cookies

01 - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
02 - ½ cup granulated sugar
03 - ½ cup packed brown sugar
04 - 1 large egg, room temperature
05 - ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
06 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
07 - 1½ cups all-purpose flour
08 - ½ teaspoon baking soda
09 - ¼ teaspoon salt

→ For Spider Assembly

10 - 1 bag pretzel sticks
11 - 1 bag miniature peanut butter cups

# Preparation Steps:

01 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 2 minutes. Scrape down sides as needed.
02 - Add the egg, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until fully combined and smooth, ensuring no streaks remain.
03 - In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt for even leavening and a lump-free dough.
04 - Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough cookies.
05 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Scoop tablespoon-sized dough balls and place them 2 inches apart. Bake 10–11 minutes until edges are set and centers slightly underdone.
06 - Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to firm up.
07 - While cookies are still warm, gently press a miniature peanut butter cup into the center of each. Break pretzel sticks into thirds and insert 3–4 pieces on each side for legs. Optionally, attach candy eyes using melted chocolate or icing.

# Additional Suggestions:

01 - Room temperature butter and egg ensure smooth dough and prevent texture issues.
02 - Slightly underbaking allows cookies to finish setting on the sheet, maintaining softness.
03 - Press peanut butter cups onto warm cookies for secure adhesion and optimal spider appearance.
04 - Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizing and even baking.

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