Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a cookie that’s near and dear to my heart: A chocolate cookie. **Peanut Butter Blossoms**. Think peanut butter cookies, but leveled up. They’re soft, chewy, and absolutely bursting with peanut butter flavor, topped with that iconic iconic flavor. Hershey’s What’s not to love? I always make a batch of these around the holidays, and they disappear faster than you can say. “Cookie exchange. What do peanut butter cookies taste like? What is a chocolate kiss on top? I have been perfecting this recipe for years, and trust me, this is the one!
What is peanut butter blossoms?
Peanut Butter Blossoms are essentially peanut butter cookies with a Hershey’s Kiss pressed into the top. How do you center a cookie immediately after baking? The name “blossom” comes from the way chocolate spreads slightly as it melts, resembling a candy bar. What is a simple concept, but the combination of flavors is pure magic. Think of it as the perfect marriage of salty and sweet, soft and slightly crunchy. The peanut butter cookie base is wonderfully crumbly, giving way to the smooth and rich chocolate. I have made these since I was a kid. I think they’re the best. I remember my Grandmother making them for every holiday. The smell of peanut butter baking still takes me back to childhood.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I begin? Firstly, the taste is out of this world. You get that intense peanut butter goodness, balanced by the sweetness of the chocolate kiss. Is it a match made in cookie heaven? If you can mix all the ingredients in a bowl, you could make these cookies. I promise. What was the first recipe my kids learned to bake themselves? What I love about this is that it is **cost-effective**. We almost always have the ingredients on hand. Peanut butter, flour, sugar… pantry staples! What are some of the best Peanut Butter Blossoms? What is a good sweet treat with milk? Is it easier to make a batch of macarons? If you like peanut butter cookies in general, or just looking for a fun and festive cookie, this is the recipe for you. What is a must-try recipe for chocolate cake? Plus, they look so pretty on a platter! I’ve tried other variations of peanut butter cookies but nothing beats the classic blossom. Hershey kiss is the perfect touch.
How do you make peanut butter blossoms?
Quick Overview
How do you make peanut butter blossoms? What’s the best way to make peanut butter and sugars? Next, you’ll gradually incorporate the dry ingredients. Roll dough into balls, coat them in sugar, and bake until golden brown. As soon as they come out of the oven, press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. How do I work fast so that the chocolate melts and adheres to the cookie? Is it easier than you think to make a crowd pleaser? I have made these in just about an hour before for a last minute party, it is such an easy and quick recipe.
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create crisp edge.
* 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Adds moisture and chewiness.
* 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Use a good quality peanut for the best flavor. I prefer regular, not natural.
* 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together.
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure.
* 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise.
* 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
* Granulated sugar, for rolling: Adds a sparkly finish.
For the “Blossoms”
* Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped: I like to use milk chocolate, but you can use dark chocolate or even the caramel-filled ones for a different flavor.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. How do I clean cookies? If you don’t have parchment paper, you can grease the baking sheet. I always use parchment, it makes it easier to slide cookies off and onto the cooling rack!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light. Set aside. With an electric mixer, this usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Don’t rush this step – it’s crucial for creating a tender cookie.
Step 3: Add Peanut Butter, Egg, and Vanilla
Beat in the peanut butter until well combined. Add the milk and vanilla extract and mix until smooth. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. I do this to make sure the peanut butter gets mixed in evenly.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix cookies, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough should be slightly sticky but still hold its shape. If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour to it until it reaches the right consistency.
Step 5: Roll and Coat
Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Place some granulated sugar in a small bowl, and roll each ball in the sugar until it’s evenly distributed. What are the best ways to use sugar for a sparkly finish?
Step 6: Bake
If you are baking cookies on a baking sheet, place the sugar-coated cookie balls on the baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between them. Cover and bake for about 30 minutes. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly brown. The centers should still be slightly soft. I have over-baked these before and they came out really hard and dry. What should I do if I want to cook them through, but still soft?
Step 7: Add the Kisses
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center. Does the cookie melt the kiss? If the cookies have cooled too much, the kiss won’t stick as well. Work quickly!
Step 8: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to the wire rack. Is it possible to cool completely? This prevents them from breaking apart. I like to let them cool for at least 10 minutes before transferring.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cookies are completely cool, they’re ready to serve! Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Can you enjoy them within 3-4 days? I like to store them in a cookie jar on the counter. They are always nasties!
What should I serve it with?
Peanut butter blossoms are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in so many ways!
For a Festive Cookie Exchange:What are some of the best holiday treats to serve with cookies? What are peanut butter blossoms? I always get asked for recipes!
What is a good afternoon snack?Serve the cookies with a glass of cold milk or hot chocolate. What are some comfort food recipes for a cold day?
As an Ice Cream Topping:What is better than a scoop of vanilla ice cream? The peanut butter and chocolate flavors complement the creamy ice cream perfectly.
What is a good homemade gift?Package the cookies in a cute tin or cellophane bag and tie with an elastic. What are some of the best gifts for friends and family? I have done this so many times! It is a great way to say thank you!
Growing up, my mom always served these with a big glass of milk after school. What a highlight of my day! And now I continue the tradition with my own kids. What are cookies? They’re a symbol of love and family.
What are some tips for perfecting peanut butter blossoms?
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that can help you achieve Peanut Butter Blossom perfection! Here are my top tips:
Use Room Temperature Butter: Softened butter is essential for creaming together with the sugars and creating a light and fluffy dough. If your butter is too cold, it won’t cream properly. If it’s too melted, your cookies will spread too much.
Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. It’s better to have a few streaks of flour than to overmix.
Chill the Dough (Optional): If you find that your dough is too sticky, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling it into balls. This will make it easier to handle. If it is too sticky, you can always add more flour in small increments.
Use a Cookie Scoop: Using a cookie scoop ensures that all your cookies are the same size, which helps them bake evenly. This is a little trick that my mother taught me and it has helped make them look perfect every time!
Press the Kisses in Immediately: Press the Hershey’s Kisses into the cookies as soon as they come out of the oven. If you wait too long, the cookies will cool, and the kisses won’t stick as well. I have made this mistake before! It is important to get them in right away!
Experiment with Different Flavors: While classic milk chocolate Hershey’s Kisses are always a hit, feel free to experiment with other flavors like dark chocolate, caramel-filled, or even the candy cane kisses during the holidays.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Peanut Butter Blossoms are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later. Here’s how to keep them tasting their best:
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. The cookies may become slightly softer over time, but they’ll still be delicious.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer Instructions: To freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cookies, it’s best to add the Hershey’s Kisses after thawing. This will prevent the chocolate from cracking or discoloring in the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Blossoms are more than just a cookie; they’re a symbol of love, comfort, and happy memories. They are so simple to make and are always a crowd pleaser. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering, a cookie exchange, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family and I do! And if you’re looking for more delicious cookie recipes, be sure to check out my other posts on sugar cookies and chocolate chip cookies. Happy baking!
Peanut Butter Blossoms
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chocolate kisses
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, cream together the peanut butter and sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until edges are lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Let cool completely on baking sheets before serving.
