Name: Peanut Butter Blossoms: Chewy Cookies Packed with Flavor
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1¾ cups All-Purpose Flour (Provides structure; ensure a leveled scoop for accuracy.); ½ cup Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness and creates a crisp outer layer; extra sugar for rolling enhances texture.); ½ cup Light Brown Sugar; ½ cup Unsalted Butter (Adds richness and moisture; ensure it's softened for easy mixing.); ¾ cup Creamy Peanut Butter; 1 large Egg (Binds ingredients together and adds moisture.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances overall flavor complexity.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (A leavening agent that helps cookies puff slightly.); ½ teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.); 24 pieces Milk Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses

As the scent of warm cookies fills the air, you can’t help but feel the spirit of the holidays wash over you. Who doesn’t love a classic Peanut Butter Blossom? These sweet and salty gems are a staple of any Christmas cookie platter, combining the rich creaminess of peanut butter with the melt-in-your-mouth delight of a milk chocolate Hershey’s Kiss on top. Not only are they easy to whip up, making them perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros, but they also bring a heartwarming touch to cozy gatherings or thoughtful gift-giving. Plus, you can easily switch things up with variations like dark chocolate or peppermint kisses to delight your guests! Ready to bake a batch and make some festive memories? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Peanut Butter Blossoms a Must-Bake?

Irresistible Sweetness: The perfect blend of creamy peanut butter and chocolate makes each bite a moment of bliss.
Nostalgic Comfort: These cookies evoke fond holiday memories, making them a heartwarming treat for family and friends.
Versatile Options: Customize your cookies with dark chocolate or peppermint kisses to surprise your loved ones!
Baker-Friendly: Simple to make, these cookies are great for bakers at any experience level.
Ideal for Sharing: Perfect for cookie platters or as thoughtful gifts to brighten someone’s day.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have these festive delights ready in no time.

Peanut Butter Blossoms Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; ensure a leveled scoop for accuracy.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and creates a crisp outer layer; extra sugar for rolling enhances texture.
• Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a caramel-like flavor; can substitute with more granulated sugar for a less rich taste.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Creamy Peanut Butter – Main flavor ingredient that gives a nutty taste and chewy texture; use creamy (not natural) for best results.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds moisture.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor complexity.
• Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps cookies puff slightly.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
For the Topping
• Milk Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses – Signature topping that adds sweetness and visual appeal; try dark chocolate or peppermint-flavored Kisses for variations.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Blossoms

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. This preparation will set you up for successful baking as you move on to mixing the dough for your Peanut Butter Blossoms.

Step 2: Create the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and ¾ cup of creamy peanut butter. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step will ensure your cookies are rich and flavorful, setting the stage for your holiday treats.

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Once your butter mixture is fluffy, add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat until the ingredients are thoroughly combined, about 1 minute. This will help bind the cookie dough together and infuse it with delicious vanilla flavor, making your Peanut Butter Blossoms irresistibly tasty.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so stop as soon as you no longer see dry flour. This step will prepare the dough for shaping.

Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Then, roll each ball in additional granulated sugar until well coated. Place the sugar-coated dough balls on your prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. This shape and coating will create a delightful texture for your Peanut Butter Blossoms.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear slightly puffy. The perfect visual cue is a soft, aromatic cookie that starts to set at the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as you want a tender center for these delightful treats.

Step 7: Add the Chocolate Kisses
Immediately after removing the cookies from the oven, gently press a milk chocolate Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, giving the chocolate a moment to soften and adhere to the cookie without melting completely. This will make your Peanut Butter Blossoms both beautiful and delicious!

Step 8: Cool the Cookies
After 5 minutes, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to ensure the chocolate sets properly and the cookies firm up without losing their chewy texture. Allowing them to cool will also enhance the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen, filling your space with sweet holiday cheer.

Peanut Butter Blossoms: Versatile Variations

Customize your Peanut Butter Blossoms with these delightful twists to make each batch uniquely yours!

Dark Chocolate Delight: Swap Hershey’s Kisses for dark chocolate varieties to add a rich, bittersweet flavor profile.
Peppermint Twist: Use peppermint-flavored chocolate Kisses for a festive hint of mint that’s perfect for the holidays.
Nut-Free Option: Replace peanut butter with sunbutter for a nut-free alternative that still packs a great flavor!
Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and a flax egg instead of the regular ingredients to make these cookies dairy and egg-free.
Add Some Crunch: Mix in chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels for an extra layer of texture and a salty contrast.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to give your cookies a warm, aromatic twist.
Chocolate Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted chocolate or a vanilla glaze over the topped cookies for a decadent finish.
Mini Kisses: Use mini chocolate Kisses for bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing at festive gatherings.

For more delightful ideas, check out these recipes for Peanut Butter Chocolate cookies and delicious Reeses Peanut Butter cheesecake! Each variation can elevate your baking game and create a memorable holiday treat for your loved ones.

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Blossoms

Right Peanut Butter: Use creamy, not natural peanut butter, to avoid crumbly dough. Natural peanut butter can lead to unexpected texture issues in your Peanut Butter Blossoms.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can cause tough cookies, so be gentle once you add the flour for your Peanut Butter Blossoms.
Chill the Dough: If your dough feels soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This helps the cookies maintain their shape and improves texture during baking.
Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies. They should be lightly golden around the edges and puffy in the center after 10-12 minutes to achieve that soft and chewy consistency.
Kiss Placement: Press the chocolate kisses into the cookies immediately after pulling them from the oven for the best melting and adherence. This tops off your Peanut Butter Blossoms with delicious sweetness!
Storage Solutions: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or freeze for longer freshness. Enjoy homemade treats for the holidays!

What to Serve with Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms

As you gather around the table indulging in the warm, comforting taste of freshly baked cookies, let’s consider some delightful pairings to elevate your experience.

Hot Cocoa: A rich beverage that enhances the chocolatey goodness of the cookies while providing warmth on chilly nights. Enjoying them together creates a nostalgic, heartwarming moment.
Spiced Chai: The aromatic blend of spices in chai perfectly complements the sweet and salty notes of Peanut Butter Blossoms, making for a dynamic flavor experience.
Milk: A classic pairing that adds a creamy element, balancing the richness of the peanut butter while quenching your thirst. The simplicity is timeless!
Fresh Fruit Salad: The bright, refreshing taste of fruit adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cookies. Think juicy berries or crisp apples for a delightful texture twist.
Christmas Spritz Cookies: For a festive touch, offer these colorful cookies alongside your Peanut Butter Blossoms. The holiday spirit shines through this duo, ideal for any cookie platter!
Gingerbread Latte: The warm spices in a latte echo the nostalgia of the holiday season, harmonizing beautifully with the comforting peanut butter flavors of the cookies.
Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream takes treats to the next level, providing a sumptuous creaminess that melds wonderfully with the chewy cookies.
Nutty Snack Mix: For a crunchy contrast, serve a handful of nutty mix — the saltiness complements the sweet and salty nature of the Peanut Butter Blossoms beautifully.
Chewy Caramel Brownies: For those with a sweet tooth, pairing these cookies with fudgy brownies adds layers of indulgence, making your dessert table irresistible!
Festive Punch: A light, fruity holiday punch will refresh your palate and brighten up the mood, creating a joyful atmosphere as you savor your treats.

Storage Tips for Peanut Butter Blossoms

Room Temperature: Store your Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft and chewy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: For a warm treat, reheat frozen cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Dough Storage: You can prepare and refrigerate the cookie dough for up to 2 days before baking, ensuring you can whip up fresh Peanut Butter Blossoms whenever the craving strikes!

Make Ahead Options

Peanut Butter Blossoms are a fantastic choice for make-ahead baking! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days, which not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. To do this, simply follow all the steps up to rolling the dough into balls, then place the formed dough balls in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just preheat the oven, place the dough on baking sheets, and proceed with baking as usual. This method ensures your cookies come out just as delicious and chewy as if they were freshly made! Plus, they’ll maintain their lovely texture when baked right before serving!

Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe FAQs

What type of peanut butter is best for Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Absolutely! I recommend using creamy peanut butter (not natural) for the best results. Natural peanut butters can be oily, leading to crumbly dough. Stick to the processed types for smooth mixing and optimal texture.

How should I store Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Keep your Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature when ready to eat!

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, indeed! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll it into balls before coating in sugar and popping them in the oven!

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your Peanut Butter Blossoms spread excessively, it could be due to overly warm dough. Chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking to help maintain their shape. Also, ensure you’re measuring your flour accurately—too little flour can cause spreading as well.

Can these cookies be frozen after baking?
Absolutely! After baking, let your cookies cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you crave a sweet treat, just thaw them at room temperature or quickly warm them up!

Are Peanut Butter Blossoms safe for those with nut allergies?
While these cookies pack a delightful punch of flavor, they contain peanut butter and are not safe for those with peanut allergies. If you need a nut-free alternative, consider using sun butter or a similar spread that mimics the creamy texture of peanut butter but is allergy-friendly.