Peanut Butter Blossoms

If you’re looking for a cookie that brings back warm memories of family gatherings and the sweet aroma of baking wafting through the house, then you’ve come to the right place! These Peanut Butter Blossoms are not just cookies; they’re a cherished tradition in my family. For over 60 years, this recipe has been a staple during the holiday season and beyond, delighting both young and old alike. Soft, chewy peanut butter cookies topped with a delicious chocolate kiss—what’s not to love?

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to create some joy on a busy weeknight, these cookies are perfect for any moment. They’re easy to make, and the smiles they bring are absolutely priceless!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in no time—perfect for those last-minute dessert cravings!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves these delightful cookies! They are sure to become a favorite in your household.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake them in advance and store them for a sweet treat whenever you need it.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates an irresistible flavor that will have you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Peanut Butter Blossoms use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create these delightful treats!

For the Cookies

• 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
• 1/2 cup Sugar
• 1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
• 1 large Egg
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla
• 1 Tablespoon Milk
• 1 3/4 cups Flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• Sugar (for rolling cookie balls)
• 1 pkg. Hershey Kisses

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try to put your own spin on these Peanut Butter Blossoms:

• Add Some Crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like peanuts or walnuts for extra texture.
• Switch Up the Chocolate: Instead of Hershey Kisses, use chocolate chips or even caramel-filled candies for a different surprise inside.
• Make It Nut-Free: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter if you need a nut-free option.
• Add Sprinkles: Roll the cookie balls in colorful sprinkles instead of sugar for an extra festive touch!

How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter along with brown sugar and regular sugar. Beat this mixture for about 4 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This step is vital because it helps incorporate air into the dough, making your cookies soft and tender.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the creamy peanut butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Continue to cream everything together for another 2 minutes. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl often so all ingredients blend evenly. This ensures every bite bursts with flavor!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just combined; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies! If you have time, letting the dough chill for about 30 minutes can enhance flavors and improve texture.

Step 4: Shape and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then roll each ball in sugar before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them for about 8-10 minutes—just until they are set but still soft in the center.

Step 5: Top with Chocolate Kisses

While your cookies are baking, unwrap those delicious Hershey Kisses so they’re ready when your cookies come out of the oven! As soon as they’re done baking, press a kiss gently into each warm cookie. Let them cool completely on the cookie sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.

And there you have it! A classic recipe that brings warmth and happiness with every bite of these delightful Peanut Butter Blossoms. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family—they’re bound to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Blossoms

Making the perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some handy tips to ensure your cookies turn out beautifully every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Starting with softened butter and room temperature eggs allows for better incorporation, resulting in a smoother dough that bakes evenly.
• Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes not only improves the flavor but also helps the cookies hold their shape during baking, preventing them from spreading too much.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet. This ensures that they remain soft and chewy.
• Press gently on the chocolate kiss: When placing the Hershey’s Kisses in the center of your cookies, press down gently. This allows them to adhere nicely without breaking apart.
• Store properly: To keep your Peanut Butter Blossoms fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also layer them with parchment paper if you’re stacking them to prevent sticking.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut Butter Blossoms are not just delicious; they’re also charmingly presented! Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple family treat, here are some fun ideas on how to serve these delightful cookies.

Garnishes

• Sprinkles: A light dusting of colorful sprinkles on top of the melted chocolate kiss adds a festive touch that’s perfect for celebrations.
• Drizzle of melted chocolate: Melt some dairy-free chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cookies for an extra layer of flavor that will impress anyone who tries them.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit platter: A selection of seasonal fruits like strawberries, apples, and bananas provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies.
• Dairy-free ice cream: Pairing these cookies with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla or chocolate ice cream creates a delightful treat that’s hard to resist.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements these sweet treats beautifully, making for a cozy snack time experience.
• Nutty trail mix: A small bowl of nutty trail mix offers a crunchy texture and healthy fats that balance out the sweetness of your cookies perfectly.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to whip up a batch (or two!) of these classic Peanut Butter Blossoms. Enjoy making memories in your kitchen!

Make Ahead and Storage

Peanut Butter Blossoms are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance, making them perfect for parties, snacks, or just to have on hand when that cookie craving hits.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. They’ll last for about 1 week in the fridge.
• To maintain their chewy texture, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds if you’re looking for a quick fix—but be careful not to overdo it!

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers might have about Peanut Butter Blossoms.

Can I use natural peanut butter for Peanut Butter Blossoms?

Yes! Natural peanut butter can be used in this recipe. Just ensure it’s well mixed and smooth before adding it to the dough.

How do I make Peanut Butter Blossoms gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Peanut Butter Blossoms, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. This will yield delicious results!

What makes Peanut Butter Blossoms so special?

Peanut Butter Blossoms combine soft and chewy cookie goodness with the delightful surprise of chocolate in every bite. They’re a classic treat that brings joy to any occasion!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bake these delightful Peanut Butter Blossoms! Their soft texture and rich flavor make them truly special. Whether you’re sharing with friends and family or enjoying them yourself, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy your baking adventure, and don’t forget to savor each bite!