As Halloween approaches, my kitchen becomes a playground of creativity, and this year, I’m thrilled to whip up these adorable Peanut Butter Spider Cookies. With delightfully chewy textures and the perfect balance of sweet and salty, these cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds but also an imaginative centerpiece for your spooky gatherings. Featuring Reese’s Cups nestled in the center and festive candy eyeballs, they transform a classic recipe into an enchanting Halloween dessert that’s easy to make and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, for those looking to accommodate dietary needs, there’s a simple way to make them gluten-free! Are you ready to add a playful twist to your autumn baking? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why Are These Cookies So Amazing? Irresistible Sweetness: The combination of creamy peanut butter and gooey Reese’s Cups creates a flavor explosion that can’t be beaten. Festive Fun: Adorned with candy eyeballs, they add a playful charm to any Halloween gathering, ensuring your treats stand out. Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for home bakers of all skill levels. Versatile Options: Want to try something new? Substitute peanut butter with almond butter, or opt for gluten-free flour to cater to dietary needs. Perfect Pairing: Enjoy them with a glass of cold milk or hot apple cider for a delightful autumn experience! Don’t miss out on more festive ideas like Honey Butter Cornbread to complement your spooky treats. Peanut Butter Spider Cookies Ingredients For the Cookie Base Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free version. Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor; granulated sugar can be substituted for crunchier cookies. Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a slight crisp; omit if using a sugar alternative. Creamy Peanut Butter – Offers the main flavor profile; use crunchy peanut butter for added texture. Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan option. Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; almond extract can also be a delightful variation. All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free Peanut Butter Spider Cookies. Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential leavening agents; ensure they are fresh for best results. Salt – Enhances the flavors; use sea salt for a gourmet touch. For Rolling and Decoration Granulated Sugar (for rolling) – Coats the cookies for a sweet crunch. Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups – The star decoration in the center; can be replaced with chocolate-covered caramel candies for a twist. Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Used for creating spider legs; dark chocolate offers a richer taste. Candy Eyeballs – Adds a fun visual appeal; mini marshmallows decorated with edible markers can be a cute substitute. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Spider Cookies Step 1: Prepare for Baking Begin by chilling the mini Reese’s Cups in the freezer for about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the Peanut Butter Spider Cookies from sticking, ensuring an easy cleanup when they’re done baking. Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup of room temperature unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until the ingredients are fully combined and have a luscious, velvety texture. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky but well-formed for your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies. Step 4: Form Cookies Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, take small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar for an extra sweet crunch and then place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet. The sugar coating will give your cookies a nice sparkle as they bake! Step 5: Bake the Cookies Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8 to 11 minutes, or until they are set and lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking! As soon as you pull the baking sheet from the oven, gently press a chilled Reese’s Cup into the center of each cookie, allowing it to melt slightly, creating that delightful center. Step 6: Cool Down Allow the Peanut Butter Spider Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes. This resting period helps the cookies firm up and makes transferring them easier without breaking. After that, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely while you prepare for the fun decoration! Step 7: Decorate Creatively To make the spider legs, melt 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a microwave or double boiler. Transfer the melted chocolate into a squeeze bottle for easy piping. Pipe four legs on each side of the Reese’s Cup on the cooled cookies. Finish by attaching candy eyeballs with a bit of the melted chocolate, giving your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies their adorable spookiness. How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Spider Cookies Room Temperature: Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful chewiness. Fridge: If you prefer a chilled treat, store the cookies in the fridge, but they may dry out quicker; enjoy them within 2 days for best flavor. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore that soft, fresh-baked feel! Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Spider Cookies Chill the Reese’s: Ensure the mini Reese’s Cups are chilled before adding them to your cookies. This prevents them from melting too quickly and keeps their shape. Mix Gently: For the best texture, avoid overmixing the dough after adding the dry ingredients; this helps your cookies stay soft and chewy. Parchment Paper: Don’t skip the parchment paper! It prevents sticking and ensures that your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies come off the baking sheet easily. Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake; they should be lightly golden around the edges for that perfect chewy texture. Experiment With Toppings: Get creative! Consider using white chocolate for spider legs or adding Halloween-themed sprinkles for extra festivity. Storage Tips: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh, or freeze them for a spooky treat later! Make Ahead Options These Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy sweet treats without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. If you prefer, you can also roll the dough into balls and coat them in sugar, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for easy access. When you’re ready to bake, just place the dough balls on a baking sheet, bake for 8 to 11 minutes, and top with chilled Reese’s Cups and melted chocolate for that perfect finishing touch. This way, you’re guaranteed freshly baked cookies that are just as delicious with minimal effort! Peanut Butter Spider Cookies Customizations Feel free to have fun and make these cookies your own with a few simple twists that will delight both your taste buds and your guests! Nut-Free: Use sun butter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free option that still packs a flavorful punch. Vegan Delight: Swap the egg for a flax egg and use vegan butter for a completely plant-based treat that everyone can enjoy. Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to ensure that those with dietary restrictions can enjoy them, too. Chocolate Lovers: For an extra chocolatey experience, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for the spider legs—they deepen the flavor beautifully! Festive Sprinkles: Add Halloween-themed sprinkles or colored sugar to the top of the cookie dough before baking for a fun and festive touch. Flavor Twist: Try using almond butter for a nutty variation that offers a delightful alternative to the classic peanut butter flavor. Crispy Edges: For cookies with a more pronounced crunch, substitute half of the brown sugar with granulated sugar; it will add a delightful texture contrast. Fruity Additions: Incorporate mini chocolate pieces or dried fruits like cranberries for an unexpected fruity twist that complements the peanut butter richness. Why stop at just these cookies? You can also create a delightful seasonal spread by pairing these with Honey Butter Cornbread or add a touch of comfort with my easy Butter Chicken. What to Serve with Peanut Butter Spider Cookies As you prepare these delightful treats, envision a cozy gathering filled with laughter and warmth, paired perfectly with tasty accompaniments that complement the playful flavors. Cold Milk: A classic choice, the creamy richness of milk beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies for a nostalgia-filled experience. Hot Apple Cider: Embrace the season with a warm, spiced drink that enhances the cozy flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, perfect for autumn gatherings. Pumpkin Spice Latte: The festive flavors of pumpkin and spices create a delightful contrast, bringing a seasonal twist to your cookie enjoyment. Caramel Sauce Dip: Drizzle warm caramel sauce onto the cookies for an irresistible sweet addition that heightens the chewy texture and nutty flavor. Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing soft cookies with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream takes dessert to the next level, creating a delightful temperature contrast with each bite. Candy Corn: Add a festive touch with a handful of candy corn on the side, enhancing the Halloween spirit while keeping the flavors fun and colorful. Chocolate Milkshake: Blend up a thick, rich chocolate shake for a dreamy combination that makes every bite of cookie even more indulgent and satisfying. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: These salty treats provide a crunchy texture that perfectly contrasts the softness of the cookies, elevating your dessert experience. Peanut Butter Spider Cookies Recipe FAQs What type of peanut butter should I use for the best flavor? I recommend using creamy peanut butter for a smooth texture and rich flavor in your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies. If you’re looking for a bit of crunch, feel free to switch to crunchy peanut butter! It adds a fun texture that pairs wonderfully with the gooey Reese’s Cups. How should I store my Peanut Butter Spider Cookies? To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first; then, transfer them to an airtight container, so they don’t stick together! Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure that all your other ingredients, like baking powder and chocolate chips, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy these delightful treats during Halloween! What should I do if my cookie dough is too dry? If your dough feels dry and crumbly, you can add a tablespoon of milk or water to help bring it together. Mix gently until combined but be cautious not to overwork the dough. It’s essential for achieving that soft, chewy texture. Can I keep these cookies in the fridge? While you can store them in the fridge, I recommend that you enjoy them at room temperature for the best flavor. If you do refrigerate them, aim to eat them within 2 days to prevent them from drying out too much. Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe? Yes, these cookies contain peanuts due to the peanut butter and mini Reese’s Cups. If you’re cooking for someone with a peanut allergy, consider using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter and opting for allergen-free chocolates to ensure they’re safe to eat! Peanut Butter Spider Cookies That Will Wow Your Halloween Guests Delight your guests with these Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, combining creamy peanut butter and Reese’s Cups for a spooky treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 11 minutes minsCooling Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 1 minute min Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 180 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Base1 cup Unsalted Butter Substitute with vegan butter for dairy-free version.1/2 cup Brown Sugar Can substitute with granulated sugar for crunchier cookies.1/2 cup Granulated Sugar Omit if using a sugar alternative.1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.1 Large Egg Can be replaced with flax egg for a vegan option.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Almond extract can also be used.1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for gluten-free option.1 teaspoon Baking Soda Ensure it's fresh for best results.1 teaspoon Baking Powder Ensure it's fresh for best results.1/2 teaspoon Salt Use sea salt for a gourmet touch.For Rolling and Decoration1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (for rolling) Coats the cookies for a sweet crunch.24 Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Can be replaced with chocolate-covered caramel candies.1/2 cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips Dark chocolate offers a richer taste.1 Candy Eyeballs Mini marshmallows with edible markers can be used as substitute. Equipment Electric Mixermixing bowlsBaking sheetParchment paperSqueeze Bottle Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPrepare for Baking: Chill the mini Reese’s Cups in the freezer for about 15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Mix Wet Ingredients: Beat the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until creamy, then add peanut butter, egg, and vanilla.Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt, then gradually combine with wet mixture.Form Cookies: Roll dough into balls, coat in granulated sugar, and place them on the baking sheet.Bake the Cookies: Bake for 8-11 minutes, then press a chilled Reese’s Cup into each cookie.Cool Down: Let cookies cool for 15-20 minutes on the baking sheet.Decorate Creatively: Melt chocolate chips and pipe spider legs on cookies, then add candy eyeballs. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 1gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 250IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesEnsure to chill Reese’s Cups before using. Avoid overmixing the dough to maintain a soft texture. Parchment paper is essential for easy removal of cookies from the baking sheet. Keep an eye on bake time for the perfect chewy texture. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
