Peanut Butter Spider Cookies: A Spooky Twist for Halloween

Introduction:

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a charming Halloween treat that adds a playful twist to the classic peanut butter blossom. Each cookie features a spooky spider made from Whoppers and chocolate legs, making them a fun and festive addition to any Halloween party.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup salted butter, softened
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter (not natural)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 44 Whoppers (22 large, 22 small)
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (6 ounces)
• 1 small tube of white cake decorating gel
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
• Black nonpareil sprinkles (optional, for the spider eyes)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms.
5. Form Cookie Dough Balls: Using a 2-tablespoon scoop, form balls of dough. Roll each ball in granulated sugar and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Bake: Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are golden and firm. Remove from the oven.
7. Add the Spider Bodies: While the cookies are still warm, press one large Whopper (for the body) and one small Whopper (for the head) onto the top of each cookie.
8. Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool in the fridge for a few minutes until they are cool to the touch.
9. Prepare the Spider Legs: Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until fully melted. Allow the chocolate to cool slightly before transferring it to a piping bag.
10. Pipe the Legs: Pipe 8 legs onto each spider cookie using a “V” shape for each set of legs (4 legs on each side of the Whopper body).
11. Add the Eyes: Use the white cake decorating gel to add two dots on the smaller Whopper (head) for the eyes. Optionally, place a small black nonpareil sprinkle in the center of each white dot to complete the eyes.
12. Let Set: Allow the cookies to set completely before serving. For faster setting, pop them back in the fridge for a few minutes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 22 cookies
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Nut Butter: Swap out the creamy peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different flavor profile.
• Spider Toppings: Use different types of candy for the spider bodies and legs, or substitute with colored sprinkles for a festive touch.
• Flavored Cookies: Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the dough for a seasonal twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time. Baked cookies can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use natural peanut butter? It’s best to use creamy peanut butter that isn’t natural, as natural peanut butter can affect the texture of the cookies.
2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cookies in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
3. How can I make the spider legs more pronounced? Ensure the chocolate is slightly cooled but still liquid when piping the legs for a more defined shape.
4. What if I don’t have Whoppers? You can use other round candies like malt balls or chocolate-covered nuts.
5. Can I use other types of chocolate for the legs? Yes, milk chocolate or white chocolate chips can be used if preferred.
6. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much? Ensure your butter is softened but not melted and chill the dough before baking if needed.
7. Can I use cookie cutters for shapes? This recipe is designed for round cookies, but cookie cutters can be used for different shapes if desired.
8. Is it necessary to chill the dough? Chilling helps the cookies hold their shape better and reduces spreading.
9. How do I make the frosting green for a different look? Add a few drops of green food coloring to the melted chocolate before piping.
10. Can I use a different type of sugar for rolling? Granulated sugar is best for rolling, but colored sugar can be used for added festivity.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Spider Cookies are a fun and spooky treat that will be a hit at your Halloween gathering. With their delicious peanut butter flavor, gooey chocolate spider bodies, and playful legs, these cookies bring a festive touch to your Halloween celebrations. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful treats!

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