Spooky Sweet Treats (Peanut Butter Spider Cookies)

Get ready to embrace the spooky season with a treat that’s as adorable as it is delicious! These Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are your classic peanut butter blossoms, given a frightfully fun makeover. With their chewy texture, rich peanut butter flavor, and festive chocolate ganache legs and eyes, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit at any Halloween gathering. Picture this: crunchy Whoppers nestled atop a soft, peanut buttery base, drizzled with glossy chocolate, and ready to crawl right into your heart (and tummy)!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are not just any dessert; they’re a delightful Halloween experience!
– Big, Bold Flavors: Creamy peanut butter harmonizes with sweet chocolate in a delicious duet.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, bake sales, or a fun family treat—everyone loves these spooky cookies!
– Flexible & Fun: Easy to customize with your favorite candies and decorations.
– Simple Steps: You’ll whip these up in no time, making them a fantastic last-minute treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your spooky supplies and let’s conjure up some Peanut Butter Spider Cookies that will enchant your friends! The standout ingredients like creamy peanut butter and semi-sweet chocolate chips will transform your cookie game into something magical. Here’s what you’ll need:

– 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
– 44 Whoppers
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (6 ounces)
– 1 small tube white cake decorating gel
– ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

*Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.*

Variations

One of the best things about Peanut Butter Spider Cookies is how easily customizable they are! Here are some fun variations to try:
– Go Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend.
– Add Extra Protein: Mix in some crushed nuts or use crunchy peanut butter for an extra bite.
– Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon to the batter for a little heat.
– Swap the Topping: Use M&M’s or Reese’s Pieces instead of Whoppers for a colorful twist.
– Cheese it Up: Drizzle with cream cheese frosting for a tangy layer of flavor.

How to Make Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Let’s get to the fun part—baking these Peanut Butter Spider Cookies! Follow these simple steps to create your spooky delights:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This sets the stage for your cookies to rise to spooky perfection!

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. This will ensure your cookies have just the right amount of lift!

Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a separate large bowl, beat together the softened salted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and fluffy. The sweetness will create a magical base for your cookies!

Step 4: Add the Egg and Peanut Butter

Mix in the egg, creamy peanut butter, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This is where the cookie magic happens!

Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix—let those flavors meld together without losing that texture!

Step 6: Roll into Balls

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, roll the dough into small balls, then roll them in the granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Bake in your preheated oven for about 8 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look slightly underbaked, which is perfect for that soft chew!

Step 8: Create the Spiders

Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately place a Whopper on top of each cookie. Let them cool for a few minutes.

Step 9: Drizzle with Chocolate

Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler. Using a piping bag or a fork, drizzle the melted chocolate over the cookies to create spider legs and eyes. Then, finish with small dots of white cake decorating gel for the eyes!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

– Chill the Dough: For even chewier cookies, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
– Uniform Size: Use a cookie scoop for uniformly sized cookies that bake evenly.
– Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake; ovens vary and you don’t want to overbake!
– Chocolate Consistency: If your chocolate is too thick for drizzling, add a tiny bit of vegetable oil to thin it out.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Garnishes

Sprinkle with festive Halloween sprinkles or edible glitter to add an extra pop of fun!

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cozy glass of milk or a creamy pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate fall treat!

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these beauties on a spooky-themed platter or in individual treat bags for a fun party favor!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any un-eaten cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They’re perfect for snacking any time!

Freezing

Yes, these cookies freeze beautifully! Just place cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Enjoy them straight from the freezer or let them thaw at room temperature. If you prefer, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm, gooey treat!

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful texture to your cookies.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not at all! These cookies are sweet and creamy; however, feel free to add a bit of spice if you want to kick it up a notch!

How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’re good to go!

Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Final Thoughts

There you have it—the irresistible Peanut Butter Spider Cookies that will make your Halloween festivities even sweeter! With their delightful crunch and rich peanut butter flavor, these cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to create some spooky magic in your kitchen! Trust me; you’ll want to make these again and again. Happy baking! 🎃🍪