Oh, Peanut Butter Blossoms! These cookies just scream holiday cheer, don’t they? I swear, the moment I smell that signature peanut butter and chocolate combo baking, I’m instantly transported back to my childhood kitchen. There’s something so magical about that soft, chewy peanut butter cookie hugged by a perfectly melted Hershey’s Kiss right on top. It’s a classic for a reason, and honestly, it’s one of those recipes that just never, ever gets old. I’ve been making these for years, and they’re always the first cookie to disappear at any gathering!
Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Blossoms
Seriously, these cookies are a total winner! They’re ridiculously easy to whip up, which is a huge plus when you’re busy. Plus, that classic combo of salty peanut butter and sweet chocolate is just irresistible. They look so festive with that little kiss on top, making them perfect for any holiday party or even just a sweet treat for your family.
- Super easy to make – perfect for beginners!
- That amazing peanut butter and chocolate flavor combo.
- They look so pretty and festive.
- Everyone absolutely loves them!
Perfect for Holiday Baking and Gifts
These Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are practically made for the holidays! They’re a go-to for Christmas cookie platters and make fantastic homemade gifts. Their cheerful look and comforting taste are guaranteed to bring smiles, whether they’re piled high on a cookie tray or tucked into a festive tin.
Simple Ingredients, Incredible Flavor
You probably have most of the ingredients for these classic Peanut Butter Blossoms in your pantry already! They come together with basic baking staples and, of course, that essential peanut butter and Hershey’s Kiss. The result is a wonderfully soft cookie with a rich, nutty flavor that’s just pure comfort.
Gather Your Ingredients for Peanut Butter Blossoms
Alright, let’s get our ingredients ready for these amazing Peanut Butter Blossoms! It’s pretty straightforward, which is part of why I love them so much. Just make sure you’ve got everything measured out before you start mixing, and you’ll be golden. Trust me, having everything prepped makes the whole process so much smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Baking Staples
First up, let’s grab our dry ingredients. You’ll need 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda for that perfect lift, and just a pinch of 1/2 teaspoon of salt to balance everything out. Then, for the sweet stuff, we’ve got 1 cup of granulated sugar for the dough and an extra 1/2 cup of granulated sugar reserved just for rolling the cookie balls. Oh, and don’t forget 1 cup of packed light brown sugar – the brown sugar really helps give these cookies that lovely soft chewiness!
The Stars of the Show
Now for the real stars! You absolutely need 1 cup (that’s two sticks!) of unsalted butter that’s been softened – make sure it’s not melted, just nice and pliable. Then, the heart of the cookie: 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. I usually stick with creamy for that super smooth texture, but use what you love! We’ll also need 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to round out the flavor. And, of course, the iconic topper: 1 whole package (about 10.5 oz) of Hershey’s Kisses. Make sure you unwrap them all beforehand – it’s a bit of a task, but so worth it!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Peanut Butter Blossoms
Alright, let’s get down to business! Making these Peanut Butter Blossoms is actually pretty simple once you get going. It’s all about the technique, and I’ll walk you through every single step so yours turn out just as amazing as mine. Don’t worry, even if you’re new to baking, you’ve got this! It’s really about layering those flavors and getting that perfect texture.
Preparing the Cookie Dough
First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, grab a small bowl and whisk together your flour, baking soda, and salt. Set that aside for a sec. Now, for the main event: in a big bowl, cream together your softened butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and that lovely packed brown sugar. You want to beat it until it’s nice and light and fluffy – this is super important for the texture! Then, beat in your eggs one at a time, making sure each one is mixed in before you add the next. A little splash of vanilla extract goes in here too, just to make everything smell amazing. Remember, the key here is that light and fluffy consistency; it makes all the difference!
Shaping and Baking Your Peanut Butter Blossoms
Once your dough is all creamy and dreamy, it’s time to add in those dry ingredients. Mix them in gradually until everything is just combined. Don’t overmix it, okay? We want tender cookies, not tough ones! Now, take about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a 1-inch ball. Then, roll that ball in the extra granulated sugar you set aside. Get it all coated! Place these sugary little dough balls onto your ungreased baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between them because they will spread a bit. Pop them into the preheated oven and bake for about 9 to 11 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to be just lightly golden. They’ll still look a little soft in the middle, and that’s exactly what you want!
The Iconic Kiss Topping
This is the fun part, the moment that turns a regular peanut butter cookie into a Peanut Butter Blossom! As SOON as those cookies come out of the oven, while they’re still hot and gooey, gently press one unwrapped Hershey’s Kiss right into the center of each cookie. You want to press it down just enough so it sinks in nicely and starts to melt, creating that signature look. Don’t push too hard, or you might crack the cookie! The residual heat from the cookie will do the rest of the melting magic.
Cooling and Finishing Touches
Now, patience is key! Let those gorgeous cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This is important because it lets them set up a bit so they don’t fall apart when you move them. After those few minutes, carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely. This helps them get that perfect chewy texture. Once they’re all cooled, they’re ready to be admired, shared, and devoured!
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms Every Time
Getting these Peanut Butter Blossoms just right is totally achievable, and a few little tricks make all the difference. It’s all about paying attention to the details! Once you nail these, you’ll be whipping out the best holiday cookies ever.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
For that super soft, chewy cookie center, make sure your butter and peanut butter are at room temperature – not cold and not melted! This helps them cream together beautifully. And when it comes to baking, watch them closely! If you prefer them extra soft, bake for the shorter end of the time (9 minutes). If you like them with just a tiny bit more chew, go for 10 or 11 minutes, but be careful not to overbake them, or they’ll lose that lovely tenderness.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes cookies can spread more than you want, especially if your butter is too soft or the oven isn’t quite hot enough. If your dough seems too soft, pop the rolled balls into the fridge for about 15 minutes before baking; that helps them hold their shape. If your Hershey’s Kiss isn’t sticking, try pressing it in a little deeper right after it comes out of the oven, or even give it a gentle swirl. Little things like that make a big difference!
Creative Peanut Butter Cookie Decorating Ideas
While the classic Hershey’s Kiss is perfection, you can totally get creative with these Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies! For a little extra flair, try sprinkling a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the kiss right after you press it in – the salty-sweet combo is amazing. Or, after the cookies have cooled, you could drizzle them with a little melted chocolate for an extra decadent touch. So many fun ways to make them your own!
Frequently Asked Questions about Peanut Butter Blossoms
Got questions about these amazing Peanut Butter Blossoms? I totally get it! Baking is all about the details, and sometimes you just need a quick answer. Here are a few things people often ask me about making them:
How do I store Peanut Butter Blossoms?
These cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay wonderfully soft and chewy for about 3 to 4 days. If your kitchen is super warm, you might want to pop them in the fridge, but honestly, they usually disappear pretty quickly!
Can I make Peanut Butter Blossoms ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cookie dough balls (rolled in sugar, but before baking) and freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Just bake them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time. Or, you can bake them completely and store them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. They’re perfect for making ahead for holiday parties!
What are good substitutions for Hershey’s Kisses in Peanut Butter Blossoms?
While the classic Hershey’s Kiss is iconic, you can totally switch it up! A good alternative is any similar-sized chocolate candy that melts well. Think Dove Milk Chocolate Promises, or even Rolo candies if you want a caramel surprise inside! Some people even like to use a dollop of buttercream frosting or a mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup after the cookie has cooled a bit. Get creative!
Serving Suggestions for Your Peanut Butter Blossoms
These Peanut Butter Blossoms are so versatile! They’re perfect on their own, of course, but pairing them with the right drinks and other treats really makes them shine. I love setting out a plate of these with a few other goodies to make any occasion feel extra special, whether it’s a casual afternoon tea or a big holiday get-together.
Perfect Pairings for Your Cookies
Honestly, is there anything better than dunking a soft peanut butter cookie into a cold glass of milk? It’s a classic for a reason! Coffee or a warm mug of hot chocolate are also fantastic companions. The rich flavors just meld perfectly with the sweet, salty peanut butter and melty chocolate kiss. They’re pure comfort in a bite and a sip!
Complementary Dessert Ideas
If you’re putting together a dessert spread, these Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are a star player. They pair wonderfully with something a little lighter, like a fresh fruit tart or a slice of tangy lemon meringue pie. For a real crowd-pleaser, imagine them alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream. It’s a simple yet decadent combination that always gets rave reviews!
Nutritional Estimate for Peanut Butter Blossoms
Okay, so when we’re talking about the nutrition for these delightful Peanut Butter Blossoms, I always like to preface it by saying these numbers are estimates! You know how it is – brands of peanut butter, the exact size of your eggs, even how much sugar you roll them in can change things up a bit. But to give you a general idea, here’s a breakdown per cookie, assuming about 36 cookies from the batch:
On average, one of these beauties comes in around 150 calories. You’re looking at about 8 grams of fat, with around 3 grams of that being saturated fat, and there’s about 17 grams of carbohydrates. Protein-wise, you’re getting a good 3 grams, and roughly 12 grams of sugar. It’s always good to remember these are just ballpark figures to help you get a sense of things!
PrintPeanut Butter Blossoms: 11 Easy Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms are soft, chewy peanut butter cookies topped with a sweet chocolate kiss. This easy recipe is perfect for holiday baking.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 1 package (10.5 oz) Hershey’s Kisses
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball in the additional granulated sugar.
- Place dough balls about 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Immediately press one Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
- For softer cookies, bake for the shorter time.
- Ensure your butter and peanut butter are at room temperature for best creaming.
- You can substitute milk chocolate kisses for the classic milk chocolate.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
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