Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies combine classic peanut butter flavor with a festive twist, making them ideal for any parties, classroom treats, or just a fun fall baking activity. They’re easy to prepare, highly customizable, and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 egg
1 1/2 cups flour
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Extra granulated sugar (for rolling)

Cookie Toppings:

72 chocolate whopper balls
72 candy eyes
Melting chocolate

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, peanut butter, softened butter, and egg using an electric mixer on medium speed or a wooden spoon until well combined.
Stir in the flour, baking soda, and baking powder until a soft dough forms.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in extra granulated sugar.
Place the balls 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
Remove from the oven and use a small spoon to gently indent the center of each cookie. Transfer to a cooling rack.
Once cookies are fully cooled, pipe a small amount of melted chocolate into the center and press a chocolate whopper ball into place.
Use melted chocolate to attach two candy eyes to each “spider” body and pipe chocolate legs extending from the center.
Allow the chocolate to set and cool completely before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes approximately 36 cookies
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Cooling and decorating time: 30 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Different candies: Use Milk Duds or Rolos instead of Whoppers for a softer spider body.
Flavor twist: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for extra warmth.
Gluten-free: Substitute a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
No candy eyes? Use mini chocolate chips or white icing to create the eyes.

Storage/Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Do not reheat, as the chocolate decorations may melt.

FAQs

1. How do I keep the cookies soft?

Ensure you don’t overbake them—remove them once the edges are lightly browned. Storing them in an airtight container helps retain moisture.

2. Can I use natural peanut butter?

Natural peanut butter may alter the texture. It’s best to use a commercial creamy peanut butter for consistent results.

3. What can I use if I don’t have candy eyes?

Mini chocolate chips, icing dots, or even tiny bits of marshmallow can work as substitutes.

4. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking. Let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes before shaping.

5. Do I have to chill the dough?

No chilling is required for this recipe, but you can chill it for slightly puffier cookies.

6. How do I melt chocolate for decorating?

Microwave chocolate in 20-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. Use a piping bag or zip-top bag with the tip cut off for decorating.

7. Can kids help with this recipe?

Absolutely! Kids can help roll the dough, decorate the cookies, and place the eyes—just be sure to supervise when handling melted chocolate.

8. What size should the cookie dough balls be?

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls for consistent baking and size.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe doubles well. Just make sure to bake in batches and rotate your trays for even cooking.

10. Why did my cookies spread too much?

Too much butter or not enough flour can cause spreading. Measure ingredients carefully and avoid placing dough on a hot baking sheet.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a fun, festive, and flavorful way any fall occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, these cookies bring joy to the kitchen and a creative twist to classic peanut butter treats. Whip up a batch, grab your decorating tools, and enjoy a sweetly spooky treat!

Lily