Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Name: Peanut Butter Spider Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 large egg; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup mini pretzels (plus extra for decoration); Candy eyes for decoration

Published: October 1, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

These Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for last-minute cravings
The balance of flavors creates a deliciously satisfying treat everyone will love
Their adorable appearance brings smiles to both kids and adults alike
Ideal for Halloween but delicious enough to enjoy all year round

I remember baking these cookies with my niece during a rainy afternoon, and her giggles over the “spooky” spider shapes made it a day to cherish.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: Use fresh flour for the best texture; it helps create chewy cookies.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetener balances the richness of peanut butter; feel free to adjust to your taste.
Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar adds moisture and depth; light or dark works well.
Peanut Butter: Choose creamy or crunchy according to preference; natural brands yield great flavor.
Eggs: Large eggs bind everything together; room temperature eggs mix more smoothly.
Baking Soda: This leavening agent ensures your cookies rise perfectly without being cakey. pumpkin-infused coffee cake.
Salt: A pinch enhances all flavors, especially in sweet treats like these cookies. For more inspiration, check out this cheesecake deviled strawberries recipe.
Chocolate Chips: Semi-sweet chips provide a delightful contrast to the peanut butter; use mini chips for extra fun.
Pretzels: Mini pretzels add crunch and mimic spider legs; use gluten-free pretzels if needed.
Candy Eyes: These little candies complete the spider look; they’re available at most craft stores or online.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your cookie dough; line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Mix Your Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until smooth and silky. Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Gradually stir this mixture into your wet ingredients until just incorporated.

Add Chocolate Chips and Pretzels: Gently fold in chocolate chips and roughly crushed pretzels; be careful not to over-mix so those tasty chunks stay intact.

Scoop and Shape Your Cookies: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop balls of dough onto prepared sheets about two inches apart. Use your fingers to slightly flatten them down before adding two mini pretzels on top for spider legs.

Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft. Let them cool on sheets for five minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Add Candy Eyes Last Minute!: Once cooled completely, place candy eyes onto each cookie using a dab of melted chocolate or frosting as glue; watch out—your spiders are ready to scare up some fun!

Get ready for an adventure in flavors as you enjoy these delightful Peanut Butter Spider Cookies! For more inspiration, check out this strawberry shortcake recipe recipe.

You Must Know

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are not just delicious; they are a fun way to engage kids in baking
These cookies combine rich peanut butter flavor with a whimsical spider design, making them perfect for Halloween or any fun gathering
The aroma of freshly baked cookies will fill your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare your cookie dough, roll it into balls, and bake until golden brown. This method ensures even baking while you prepare your spooky decorations.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out peanut butter for almond or sunbutter for allergy-friendly options. You can also add chocolate chips or raisins for an extra treat in your Peanut Butter Spider Cookies.

Storing & Reheating

Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To revive their freshness, microwave them for a few seconds before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve the best texture, use creamy peanut butter rather than chunky
Overbaking can lead to dry cookies, so keep an eye on them in the oven
Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating for easier handling

The first time I made Peanut Butter Spider Cookies, my niece declared them “spooktacular.” The joy on her face as she placed candy eyes was priceless and made the effort worthwhile.

FAQ

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, but creamy peanut butter gives a softer texture that is more suitable for these cookies.

How do I make the spider legs?

Use chocolate licorice or pipe melted chocolate to create spider legs on your cookies.

Can these cookies be frozen?

Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to three months for future enjoyment.

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