Spider Peanut Butter Cookies are the ultimate spooky-sweet treat for Halloween. Trick or treat! These cute Halloween cookies are bound to be the talk of the party on October 31st. Imagine a chewy peanut butter cookie topped with a classic Hershey’s Kiss, surrounded by eight chocolatey legs, and finished with googly candy eyes. They’re creepy, adorable, and downright delicious—all in one bite.
What makes these cookies stand out is that they don’t just look festive; they taste amazing, too. With a rich peanut butter flavor, soft and chewy texture, and a touch of chocolate, they strike the perfect balance between fun and indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween bash, baking with kids, or just looking to add some festive spirit to your dessert table, spider peanut butter cookies deliver on every level.
In this blog, you’ll find everything you need to know about making these cookies from scratch. From the full recipe with ingredients and step-by-step instructions to troubleshooting tips, variations, and even fun facts about other Halloween treats, we’ve got it covered. Let’s get spooky in the sweetest way possible!
Why Spider Peanut Butter Cookies Are Perfect for Halloween Parties
Halloween is the one holiday where food gets to wear a costume too—and spider peanut butter cookies steal the show every time. They manage to look slightly creepy without being scary, which makes them a great choice for both kids and adults.
The Spooky-Cute Appeal of Spider Cookies
There’s something magical about turning a simple cookie into a tiny spider. The Hershey’s Kiss becomes the spider’s body, the melted chocolate forms its eight legs, and the candy eyes bring it to life. When lined up on a tray, these cookies look like an entire spider army ready to crawl onto your party table.
How These Cookies Combine Fun and Flavor
While the decoration makes them stand out, the taste is what keeps everyone coming back for more. Peanut butter pairs beautifully with chocolate, giving you a rich, nutty flavor that feels indulgent but still comforting. Plus, they’re soft enough for kids to enjoy yet structured enough to hold their shape, so you get the best of both worlds: a cookie that’s fun to look at and delicious to eat.
Ingredients for Spider Peanut Butter Cookies
To make these cookies, you’ll need a mix of pantry staples and some fun Halloween decorations. The combination makes for a recipe that’s simple yet festive.
Essential Ingredients for the Cookie Dough
- ½ cup butter, softened – the key to a rich, buttery base.
- ½ cup white sugar – for sweetness and structure.
- ½ cup brown sugar – adds a touch of molasses for chewiness.
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (no-stir kind) – this is non-negotiable; it gives the cookies their classic peanut butter flavor.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – rounds out the flavors.
- 1 egg – helps bind everything together.
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour – the foundation of the dough.
- ½ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – ensures the cookies rise slightly without puffing too much.
Special Decorations to Create the Spider Look
- 27 Hershey’s milk chocolate kisses (unwrapped) – these become the spider bodies.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – for rolling the dough balls.
- ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips – melted and piped into the spider legs.
- 54 candy googly eyes – two per spider for that irresistible spooky-cute charm.
- 1 small zip-top bag – for piping on the legs.
If you’re craving another creative twist, don’t miss our Creme Egg Stuffed Cookies—a gooey, chocolatey treat that’s just as fun as these spooky spider cookies.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Spider Peanut Butter Cookies
Follow these steps to make cookies that are as fun to decorate as they are to eat:
Preparing the Peanut Butter Cookie Dough
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes on high speed).
- Mix in vanilla extract and peanut butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the egg and beat until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, and baking soda.
- Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step keeps the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
Baking and Shaping the Cookies
- Use a 1½-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out the dough.
- Roll each dough ball in granulated sugar.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes or until golden on the bottom.
- Immediately after baking, press a Hershey’s Kiss on its side into the center of each cookie. This will be the spider’s body.
- Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before decorating further. (You can refrigerate them to speed up the process.)
Decorating with Chocolate Kisses, Legs, and Googly Eyes
- Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in 5-second bursts in the microwave, stirring between each round until smooth.
- Transfer the melted chocolate into a small zip-top bag and snip a tiny corner to create a piping bag.
- Starting at the base of the Hershey’s Kiss, pipe out eight thin legs extending onto the cookie.
- Dab a tiny bit of melted chocolate on the back of each candy eye and press them onto the Hershey’s Kiss.
- Allow the decorations to set before serving—or pop them in the fridge for quicker results.
Pro Tips for Perfect Spider Peanut Butter Cookies
Making spider cookies is straightforward, but a few pro tips can take them from good to incredible.
Why Chilling the Dough Matters
Skipping the chill time might seem tempting, but don’t do it! When the dough is chilled, the butter firms up, which keeps the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. This means you’ll get cookies that are thicker, softer, and the perfect base for decorating.
Choosing the Right Peanut Butter
Always use no-stir creamy peanut butter. Natural peanut butter tends to separate, leaving your dough too oily or crumbly. That results in cookies that fall apart or bake unevenly. Stick with classic brands for consistent results.
Making Chewy vs. Crispy Cookies
If you love your cookies extra chewy, bake them for only 8 minutes. They’ll continue to cook slightly on the baking sheet after you take them out. For a crispier cookie, bake closer to 10 minutes, but watch carefully so they don’t burn.
Using the Right Piping Technique
When piping the spider legs, cut the smallest hole possible in your zip-top bag. A tiny cut gives you fine, clean lines. If the legs come out too thick, they’ll look messy instead of spooky-cute.
Common Problems with Peanut Butter Cookies (and How to Fix Them)
Even experienced bakers run into issues with peanut butter cookies. Here’s how to troubleshoot the most common problems:
Why Is My Dough Crumbly?
This usually happens if you use natural peanut butter or measure flour incorrectly. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife—never scoop directly from the bag, as this packs too much flour.
Why Do My Cookies Spread Too Much?
Warm dough or too much butter can cause spreading. That’s why chilling the dough is so important. If your cookies still spread, try baking one test cookie before chilling and another after chilling—you’ll see the difference instantly.
How to Prevent Cookies from Becoming Dry
Overbaking is the number one culprit. Peanut butter cookies firm up as they cool, so don’t wait until they look fully set in the oven. Pull them out when they’re lightly golden at the bottom, even if the centers look soft.
Why Are My Cookies Hard Instead of Soft?
Too much flour or not enough sugar can make cookies dense and hard. Double-check your measurements and stick to the recipe ratios. A kitchen scale is the best way to get precise results.
Variations of Spider Peanut Butter Cookies
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can switch up ingredients and decorations to create cookies that fit your exact vibe.
Mini Spider Cookies for Kids
If you’re baking for little ones, consider making bite-sized spider cookies. Simply use a smaller scoop (about 1 tablespoon of dough) and mini chocolate kisses or chocolate chips for the spider bodies. They’re easier for kids to handle and just as cute.
Using Dark Chocolate or White Chocolate Kisses
Milk chocolate Hershey’s Kisses are the classic choice, but dark chocolate or even white chocolate versions create a different look and flavor. Dark chocolate spiders look extra spooky, while white chocolate spiders give off a ghostly vibe.
Gluten-Free and Vegan Options
- Gluten-free version: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend.
- Vegan version: Use plant-based butter, a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water), and dairy-free chocolate. Candy eyes may contain gelatin, so check labels or make DIY eyes with white icing and chocolate dots.
What Is PPA and How Does It Relate to Peanut Butter Cookies?
If you’ve searched for peanut butter recipes online, you may have seen PPA mentioned. But what does it mean?
Understanding PPA in Food Safety
PPA often refers to processing peanut allergens or food safety guidelines related to peanut handling. While it doesn’t directly change your recipe, it’s a reminder to be mindful of peanut allergies. Always label your cookies clearly when bringing them to parties or school events.
Peanut Allergies and Safe Alternatives
For anyone with peanut allergies, try making “sunbutter spider cookies.” Sunflower seed butter mimics the taste and texture of peanut butter but is nut-free. Almond butter is another option if tree nuts aren’t an issue. This way, everyone can enjoy a safe version of the Halloween treat.
Fun Halloween Cookie Alternatives
If you’re planning a Halloween dessert spread, why stop at spiders? There are plenty of festive cookie options out there.
Snoop Dogg Cookies Explained
Believe it or not, Snoop Dogg has his own cookbook called From Crook to Cook. His cookie recipes often go viral because they’re packed with fun flavors and creativity. They’re not necessarily Halloween-themed, but they’re great for mixing up your cookie platter.
Creme Egg Stuffed Cookies
If you’re looking for another fun twist, check out our Creme Egg Stuffed Cookies. Imagine a gooey chocolate chip cookie with a surprise candy center—it’s indulgent, festive, and guaranteed to wow guests at any holiday party.
Quick Recipe: 3-Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies
Sometimes you want cookies without all the steps. That’s where the 3-ingredient peanut butter cookie recipe shines.
The Classic Shortcut Recipe
All you need is:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
Mix them together, scoop onto a baking sheet, and bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes. That’s it—no flour, no butter, no fuss.
When to Use the Simple Version vs. the Spider Version
The 3-ingredient cookies are perfect for quick cravings or when you’re short on time. But for Halloween, the spider peanut butter cookies win every time because of their spooky-cute decorations. Use the shortcut version for everyday baking and the spider version for celebrations.
Serving and Storing Spider Peanut Butter Cookies
Best Ways to Store Cookies for Freshness
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- If stacking cookies, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
How Long They Last at Room Temp vs. Fridge
- At room temperature: 3–4 days.
- In the fridge: up to a week (though they may dry slightly).
- In the freezer: up to 3 months. Just thaw before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Cookie)
Each cookie contains about:
- Calories: 193
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 2g
Note: Nutrition info is approximate and may vary by ingredients used.
Pairing Spider Peanut Butter Cookies with Drinks
Kid-Friendly Drink Ideas
- Cold milk
- Hot cocoa with marshmallows
- Pumpkin spice milkshakes
Grown-Up Pairings
- Coffee (the peanut butter-chocolate combo is amazing with a bold roast)
- Chai tea for a spiced twist
- A glass of cold oat milk for a dairy-free option
FAQs About Spider Peanut Butter Cookies
How to make peanut butter spiders?
Bake peanut butter cookies, press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center, add piped chocolate legs, and stick on candy eyes.
What are Snoop Dogg cookies?
They come from Snoop Dogg’s cookbook From Crook to Cook, featuring unique and creative cookie recipes.
What are common problems with peanut butter cookies?
Crumbly dough, spreading too much, or turning dry. Fixes include using no-stir peanut butter, chilling dough, and avoiding overbaking.
What are the three ingredients for peanut butter cookies?
Peanut butter, sugar, and one egg.
Can I freeze spider peanut butter cookies?
Yes! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a container for up to 3 months.
Do I need to use candy googly eyes?
No—you can make edible eyes with a dot of white icing and a tiny chocolate chip.
Spider Peanut Butter Cookies are more than just a Halloween treat—they’re a fun baking project that brings smiles (and maybe a few spooky chills) to everyone who tries them. With chewy peanut butter cookies as the base and clever decorations that transform them into edible spiders, these cookies are sure to be the star of any Halloween party.
Whether you stick to the classic version, make mini spiders for kids, or even experiment with gluten-free or vegan twists, this recipe proves that baking can be both festive and delicious. Pair them with your favorite drink, share them with friends and family, and watch them disappear as quickly as they’re set on the table.
Halloween only comes once a year—so go ahead and bake up a batch of spider peanut butter cookies that everyone will remember long after the spooky season ends.
