Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe

If you love the warm, comforting flavor of peanut butter combined with a little chocolate surprise, you are in for a real treat with Peanut Butter Blossoms. This classic cookie is a delightful blend of soft, chewy peanut butter dough rolled in sugar that bakes up golden and then crowned with a melty milk chocolate Hershey’s Kiss. It’s the perfect sweet and salty twist that has made Peanut Butter Blossoms a beloved favorite at holiday gatherings and all year round. Once you try them, you’ll understand why these cookies bring such joy with every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential, each playing a key role in creating that perfect balance of taste and texture that defines Peanut Butter Blossoms. From the rich peanut butter to the creamy butter, and the little hint of vanilla to the cozy kiss of chocolate, every component contributes to this cookie’s charm.

• All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups): The base that gives the cookies their soft, tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup plus extra for rolling): Adds sweetness and helps create a slight crunch when rolling.
• Light brown sugar (½ cup, packed): Brings moisture and a subtle caramel flavor for richness.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Provides creaminess and helps with the perfect tender texture.
• Creamy peanut butter (½ cup): The star ingredient delivering that unmistakable, nutty flavor.
• Large egg (1): Binds everything together while contributing to a moist interior.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
• Baking soda (1 tsp): Helps the cookies rise and spread just right.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Balances sweetness and deepens flavor complexity.
• Milk chocolate Hershey’s Kisses (24, unwrapped): The iconic finishing touch that melts perfectly atop each cookie.

How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Surface

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This step sets the stage for perfect cookies that come away effortlessly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Sugars, and Peanut Butter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter. Using an electric mixer or sturdy spoon, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration is key to achieving a soft cookie with wonderful texture. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully blended.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients and Incorporate

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Adding the dry ingredients gradually to your peanut butter mixture helps maintain a smooth, even dough. Mix just until combined; overmixing can make the cookies tougher than desired.

Step 4: Shape, Roll, and Coat

Scoop out small portions of dough and roll each into a 1-inch ball. Then, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar to add a slight crunch and pretty sparkle to the cookie edges. Place them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets to allow room for spreading.

Step 5: Bake and Press the Chocolates

Bake the cookies for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely light golden color and the cookies puff slightly. As soon as they come out of the oven, press an unwrapped Hershey’s Kiss gently into the center of each cookie. This step creates that iconic peanut butter blossom look, and you’ll notice the cookies crack slightly around the edges—this is exactly what you want!

Step 6: Cool and Set

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, allowing the chocolate kisses to set without melting away completely. Then transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool fully. This cool-down step ensures the cookies hold their shape and the chocolate has a perfect texture.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms

Garnishes

Peanut Butter Blossoms are wonderful on their own, but you can add a little extra flair by sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt over the chocolate for a sophisticated salty-sweet sensation. A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving also looks festive and ties the cookies into any holiday spread.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, naturally, or a cup of fragrant hot cocoa to amplify their cozy, comforting vibe. For a grown-up twist, serve alongside spiced coffee or a glass of creamy peanut butter milkshake for the ultimate indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging Peanut Butter Blossoms on a festive platter with clusters of fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary to brighten the presentation. You can also place each cookie in a mini cupcake liner for easy grabbing at parties. For a gift idea, stack them in a beautiful tin with wax paper between layers, tied up with a ribbon for an irresistible homemade treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and soft for up to a week, making them a perfect cookie to bake ahead of time for holiday celebrations or simple snack cravings.

Freezing

You can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies. For dough, shape the balls and freeze them spaced apart on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. For baked cookies, freeze in airtight containers separated by parchment paper. This way, you can enjoy Peanut Butter Blossoms anytime you want a quick treat.

Reheating

To refresh the cookies after refrigeration or freezing, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds or warm them briefly in a low oven. This will soften the cookie and gently melt the chocolate once again, reviving that fresh-from-the-oven experience.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter adds a delightful little crunch and more texture to your Peanut Butter Blossoms. Just keep in mind the dough might be slightly less smooth, but the flavor will still be delicious.

What if I don’t have Hershey’s Kisses?

If you can’t find Hershey’s Kisses, feel free to substitute with small pieces of your favorite milk or semi-sweet chocolate bar. Mini chocolate chips or chocolate chunks also work well as a lovely topping.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough slightly before shaping if your kitchen is warm. Rolling the dough balls and spacing them properly on the baking sheet helps control spreading during baking.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, making sure it contains xanthan gum or similar binding agent. The texture might vary slightly, but the Peanut Butter Blossoms will still be a tasty treat.

Are these cookies suitable for gifting?

Definitely. Peanut Butter Blossoms are charming, classic, and always crowd-pleasers. Packaged in a pretty box or tin, they make wonderful homemade gifts that show care and cheer.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about Peanut Butter Blossoms that makes them a timeless favorite. They bring together a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that feel like a warm hug in cookie form. Whether you’re making them for the holidays or just because, these cookies are sure to brighten anyone’s day. So why not give this recipe a try and add a little extra sweetness and joy to your baking adventures?

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