Peanut Butter Blossoms

Easy Peanut Butter Blossoms are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful cookies feature a soft and chewy peanut butter base topped with a classic Hershey’s chocolate kiss. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress. With over 60 years in my family, it’s no wonder these peanut butter blossoms have earned their place as a beloved dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal time and effort, making it perfect for busy bakers.
• Classic Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates an irresistible taste that everyone loves.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these cookies during the holidays, at parties, or as an everyday snack.
• Family Tradition: Passed down through generations, this recipe brings back fond memories and family bonding.
• Perfectly Soft: Achieve a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth with every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows ample space for mixing ingredients without spilling.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures that your butter and sugars become light and fluffy.
• Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet provides even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.

Ingredients

Easy Peanut Butter Blossoms. This popular soft and chewy peanut butter cookie with a Hershey’s chocolate kiss in the center is the classic Christmas cookie. This recipe has been in my family for over 60 years and is the best peanut butter blossom recipe.

For the Cookie Base

• 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

For the Dry Mixture

• 1 3/4 cups Flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon Salt

For Rolling

• Sugar (to roll cookie balls in)

For Topping

• 1 pkg. Hershey Kisses

How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and regular sugar for about 4 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps achieve a creamy texture without any graininess from the sugar.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Add in 1/2 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1 large egg, 1 tablespoon milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix for an additional 2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl frequently to ensure even mixing.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Stir in 1 3/4 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and salt (between 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon). Mix until just combined. If you have time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can enhance flavor and texture.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Roll the dough into approximately 1-inch balls and then roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your cookies for about 8-10 minutes or until they are cooked through but still soft in the center.

Step 6: Add Hershey Kisses

While your cookies are still warm from the oven, unwrap a package of Hershey Kisses. Press one kiss into each warm cookie gently so it sinks slightly into the dough. Allow them to cool before removing from the baking sheet to enjoy!

With these easy steps, you’ll create delicious Peanut Butter Blossoms that are sure to be a hit!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut Butter Blossoms are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering or simply enjoying them at home, these cookies offer versatility in presentation and pairing.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic combination that enhances the creamy peanut butter flavor. The cold milk complements the soft texture of the cookie perfectly.

As a Dessert Platter

• Arrange Peanut Butter Blossoms on a colorful platter alongside other cookies and treats. This makes for an inviting dessert table at parties.

Pairing with Ice Cream

• Serve warm Peanut Butter Blossoms with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. The contrast of temperatures creates a delicious experience.

Gift Packaging

• Place Peanut Butter Blossoms in decorative tins or boxes as gifts. They make for thoughtful, homemade presents during the holidays or special occasions.

On a Breakfast Plate

• Enjoy these cookies as part of a casual breakfast spread. Pair them with fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced morning meal.

With Coffee or Tea

• Pair your Peanut Butter Blossoms with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The rich flavors work well together, making it an excellent afternoon snack.

Pin this!

How to Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms

To achieve the best Peanut Butter Blossoms, follow these simple tips for perfect results every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your butter and eggs are at room temperature helps create a smooth mixture, leading to better texture.

• Don’t overmix: When combining flour, baking soda, and salt, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies.

• Chill the dough: If you have time, chill the cookie dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps develop flavor and prevents spreading.

• Watch the baking time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them from the oven when they look slightly underbaked for that chewy texture.

• Press Kisses gently: When adding Hershey Kisses, press them gently into the center of each cookie while they are still warm to ensure they melt slightly and stick well.

• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store your Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Blossoms

While Peanut Butter Blossoms are delightful on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a wholesome side that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of peanut butter.

3. Chocolate Dipped Pretzels: These salty-sweet snacks provide crunch and flavor that pairs beautifully with soft cookies.

4. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses such as brie or sharp cheddar can create an interesting flavor combination when served alongside cookies.

5. Nutty Trail Mix: A blend of nuts and dried fruits adds texture and complements the peanut flavor in the blossoms.

6. Caramel Sauce Dip: Serve warm caramel sauce for dipping to add an indulgent touch to your cookie feast.

7. Coffee Cake Slices: For brunch gatherings, offering slices of coffee cake harmonizes well with sweet desserts like Peanut Butter Blossoms.

8. Mini Cheesecakes: These rich desserts provide a luxurious contrast to your cookie offerings while maintaining a sweet theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter Blossoms can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Cold Butter: Cold butter will not cream well with sugars. Make sure your butter is softened to achieve that light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the Chilling Step: While optional, chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape. If you have time, let the dough chill for 30 minutes.
• Overbaking the Cookies: Baking for too long can lead to dry cookies. Pull them out when they are just set and still soft in the center.
• Not Unwrapping Kisses Ahead of Time: Unwrapping Hershey Kisses while the cookies bake can lead to a scramble. Have them ready for when the cookies come out of the oven.
• Not Measuring Flour Properly: Too much flour will make your cookies dense. Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup for accuracy.

Pin this!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter Blossoms

• Freeze cookie balls before baking for up to 3 months.
• Once baked, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Peanut Butter Blossoms

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually on medium power for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for 2-3 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Blossoms.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will give your cookies added texture, making them delightful!

How do I store leftover Peanut Butter Blossoms?

You can store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

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

You can substitute with chocolate chips or any chocolate candy you prefer.

Can I make these Peanut Butter Blossoms ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

These Peanut Butter Blossoms are not only soft and chewy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them by adding different types of chocolate or even incorporating nuts. Try this classic recipe today and enjoy a cookie that brings warmth and joy with every bite!