As I stood in my kitchen, the delightful scent of melting chocolate and peanut butter filled the air, instantly transporting me to my childhood Halloween memories. These Adorable Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are the ultimate festive treat, combining the creamy richness of peanut butter with the playful charm of spooky spider decorations. They’re not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for busy home chefs looking for a quick yet impressive dessert. The secret ingredient? Miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups that form the body of each cookie, topped off with whimsical candy eyes. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or simply looking for a fun way to get your kids involved in baking, these Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies will surely steal the show. Are you ready to bring some Halloween magic into your kitchen? Why Are These Cookies So Special? Festive Fun: These Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a celebration on a plate! With their charming spider design, they add a playful touch to your Halloween festivities. Easy to Customize: Mix it up with different candies—try chocolate-covered caramels or sprinkles to match your theme. Versatile and perfect for any occasion! Rich, Creamy Flavor: The combination of smooth peanut butter and chocolate delivers an indulgent flavor that delights all ages. Kid-Friendly Baking: Get the little ones involved in decorating; they’ll love creating their own spooky treats. Quick Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delicious cookies ready in no time, leaving you free to enjoy the holiday! For more delightful options, don’t miss our Peanut Butter Reeses or explore variations like Peanut Butter Rice for different tastes! Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies Ingredients • The key to making these delightful cookies! For the Cookie Dough All-Purpose Flour – Essential for cookie stability; do not substitute with whole wheat flour. Baking Soda – A crucial leavening agent that ensures a light texture in your cookies. Salt – Balances the sweetness of sugars and peanut butter, enhancing overall flavor. Unsalted Butter (room temperature) – Adds moisture and richness; using unsalted helps control the cookie’s saltiness. Light Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and a hint of molasses flavor; can be substituted with dark brown sugar for a richer taste. Granulated Sugar – Works with brown sugar to ensure the right sweetness; consider reducing slightly if desired. Smooth Peanut Butter – The star flavor and texture; creamy peanut butter is key for the best results—avoid crunchy varieties for this recipe. Egg – Serves as a binding agent; a flax egg can be used for a vegan option. Vanilla Extract – Adds a pleasant aroma; opting for pure vanilla improves quality. Whole Milk – Moisture provider; almond milk or any non-dairy milk works as a great substitute. For the Decorations Miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups – Forms the ‘body’ of the spider while adding a delightful chocolate-peanut buttery flavor; can swap with Whoppers or similar candies. Semi-Sweet Chocolate – Perfect for piping spider legs and adhering candy eyes—chocolate chips make for easy use! Candy Eyes – A fun element to your cookies; you can switch these with small chocolate chips if necessary. These Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies will be the highlight of your holiday treats! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies Step 1: Prepare Cookie Dough In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of smooth peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ¼ cup of whole milk, then mix until fully combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Step 2: Chill Dough Transfer the peanut butter cookie dough into an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial; it helps the dough firm up, which prevents the cookies from spreading too thin while baking. You’ll know it’s ready when you can easily scoop the dough without it being sticky. Step 3: Bake Cookies Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking. Once the dough is chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers look slightly underbaked. Let them cool on the sheet for about 3-5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Step 4: Decorate Once the cookies have cooled, gently press a Miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup into the center of each cookie to create the spider’s body. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth. Using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a small corner snipped, pipe chocolate legs extending from the Reese’s and place two candy eyes on top for a spooky touch. Step 5: Set and Serve To ensure your spider decorations set properly, chill the cookies in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes after decorating. This will help the chocolate harden and keep the candy eyes in place. Once set, these Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies are ready to be served! Make Ahead Options These Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the first two steps and refrigerating it. This chilling process not only prevents spreading but also enhances the flavor. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough onto a baking sheet and proceed with baking as directed. Additionally, you can decorate the cookies up to 3 days ahead; just store the finished cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent the chocolate from becoming soft. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll be able to enjoy festive treats with minimal effort on the big day! What to Serve with Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies These festive cookies are perfect for creating a delightful Halloween spread that will charm both kids and adults alike. Spooky Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit on skewers adds a burst of color and health to your dessert table, complementing the sweetness of the cookies. Kids will love choosing their favorite fruits! Chocolaty Hot Cocoa: Rich hot cocoa topped with whipped cream offers a cozy drink to enjoy alongside your spooky treats, enhancing the warmth of a Halloween gathering. Halloween-Themed Cupcakes: These playful cupcakes can be decorated with spider webs or spooky faces to match the fun of the cookies, creating an exciting dessert duo for any party. Caramel Apple Slices: Crisp apple slices coated in caramel and sprinkles provide a sweet crunch that balances the soft, chewy texture of the cookies. It’s a perfect mix of flavors! Gummy Worms: A bowl of gummy worms adds a playful touch, encouraging some playful snacking as guests dive into the cookies. These sweets bring out the Halloween spirit in a fun way! Pumpkin Spice Milkshake: Creamy and indulgent, this seasonal shake is a festive touch and pairs deliciously with the cookies, creating a rich, unforgettable treat experience. Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes. Skipping this step can result in flatter, crunchier cookies instead of the desired chewy texture. Use Creamy Peanut Butter: For the best flavor and texture, stick with creamy peanut butter. Natural or crunchy varieties may not hold the dough together effectively, leading to crumbling cookies. Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Every oven is different, so start checking your cookies at 10 minutes. They should be lightly golden around the edges but soft in the center; they’ll continue to firm up as they cool. Let Cool Before Decorating: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 3-5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from breaking when you add the Reese’s and chocolate decorations. Experiment with Decorations: Feel free to swap out the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and candy eyes with your favorite candies. Customizing the look of your Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies can be a fun part of the baking experience! Storage Tips for Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture. Refrigerator: If you live in a warm climate, you can keep the cookies in the fridge for up to 10 days, but be aware they may become a bit firmer. Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Reheating: Thaw frozen cookies overnight in the fridge, then microwave for 5-10 seconds to restore their chewy goodness before serving. Enjoy your Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies with friends and family! Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies Variations Unleash your creativity with these fun twists to elevate your Halloween cookie experience! Candy Alternatives: Try using chocolate-covered caramels or Hershey’s Kisses instead of Reese’s for a different flavor profile. Each option adds its own delightful touch to the cookie. Nut-Free Delight: For a nut-free version, reach for sunflower seed butter or another nut-free spread. Everyone can join in the spooky fun with this friendly adaptation! Chocolate Lovers: Switch to dark chocolate for a richer, less sweet flavor when decorating. The deeper taste balances well with the sweetness of the cookies and candy. Sprinkle Spectacular: Decorate with colorful sprinkles or themed candies to create a festive look that ties in perfectly with your Halloween party décor. Kids will absolutely love customizing them! Mini Monster Versions: Make mini cookies using a teaspoon of dough for bite-sized spiders. These perfectly poppable treats are ideal for Halloween parties or classroom snacks. Spicy Add-Ins: Add a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper in the dough for a warm, spicy twist. It’s a playful surprise that elevates the flavor profile! No Bake Option: For a quick assembly, use pre-made cookie dough or store-bought cookies as a base. Simply add the Reese’s and decorations for a fabulous finish without the oven! Dive into more creative dips in this delicious world of baking, and check out our ideas like Chocolate Peanut Butter and Peanut Butter Banana Baked Oatmeal Cups for delicious inspirations! Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies Recipe FAQs How do I select the right level of ripeness for my ingredients? Absolutely! Using room temperature unsalted butter is crucial for achieving that creamy, fluffy texture in the cookie dough. Make sure your butter is soft enough to leave an impression when you press it with your finger but not melted. Fresh eggs work best; if you’ve got farm-fresh eggs, even better! For the peanut butter, stick with a creamy variety—natural ones may separate and alter the cookie’s texture. How should I store Peanut Butter Spider Cookies? These cookies should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days. If you want to keep them even fresher, you can pop them in the refrigerator where they’ll last for about 10 days. Just a heads up, they may become firmer in texture. I often layer parchment paper between cookies to keep them from sticking together! Can I freeze Peanut Butter Spider Cookies? Yes, you can freeze these delightful creations! To freeze, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their delightful chewy texture. What if my cookie dough ends up too sticky or runny? Very common! If you encounter sticky dough, it can often be a result of either too much moisture or not enough flour. I recommend adding a tablespoon of flour at a time until you reach a smooth, workable dough. If it’s running, consider chilling the dough longer; this will help firm it up. Just trust the process—patience pays off in cookie flavor and texture! Can I make these cookies allergy-friendly? Absolutely! For a nut-free version, I suggest using sunflower seed butter. If you have egg allergies, you can replace the egg with a flax egg—just mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, then let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Most of my friends who have dietary considerations have enjoyed altering these with no loss in yumminess! Are there any specific dietary considerations for pets regarding these cookies? It’s essential to note that ingredients such as chocolate and peanut butter can be harmful to pets. While some animals might be able to handle small amounts of peanut butter, always avoid sharing these cookies with your furry friends to ensure their safety. Always check with your veterinarian if you’re unsure! Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies That WOW Your Guests Delightful Peanut Butter Spider Halloween Cookies are festive treats that combine creamy peanut butter, chocolate, and fun spider decorations. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 12 minutes minsChilling Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 12 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: CookiesCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough2 cups All-Purpose Flour Essential for cookie stability; do not substitute with whole wheat flour.1 teaspoon Baking Soda A crucial leavening agent.½ teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.½ cup Unsalted Butter Adds moisture and richness; use room temperature.½ cup Light Brown Sugar Provides moisture and a hint of molasses flavor.½ cup Granulated Sugar Works with brown sugar for the right sweetness.1 cup Smooth Peanut Butter Creamy peanut butter is key; avoid crunchy.1 large Egg Acts as a binding agent; can use a flax egg for vegan.1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Opt for pure vanilla for better quality.¼ cup Whole Milk Almond or non-dairy milk can be substituted.For the Decorations12 pieces Miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Forms the 'body' of the spider.½ cup Semi-Sweet Chocolate For piping spider legs and adhering candy eyes.2 pieces Candy Eyes Fun element for decoration; can substitute with mini chocolate chips. Equipment Mixing bowlsBaking sheetParchment paperpiping bagmicrowave-safe bowl Method Step-by-Step InstructionsIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt.In another bowl, cream together ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of smooth peanut butter until light and fluffy.Add 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ¼ cup of whole milk, then mix until fully combined.Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.Transfer the peanut butter cookie dough into an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Once the dough is chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers look slightly underbaked. Let them cool for about 3-5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.Press a Miniature Reese's Peanut Butter Cup into the center of each cookie to create the spider's body.Melt ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth.Using a piping bag, pipe chocolate legs extending from the Reese's and place two candy eyes on top.Chill the decorated cookies in the refrigerator for about 10-15 minutes to ensure the chocolate hardens. Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 3gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 10mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 100IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesStore cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days or in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Freeze for long-term storage, up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
