There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Peanut Butter Blossoms to usher in the holiday spirit! As I mix creamy peanut butter with just the right amount of sweet chocolate, I can’t help but relish the warmth that fills my kitchen. These classic Christmas cookies are not just a treat; they are a delightful experience, perfect for bringing family and friends together during the festive season. The simplicity of this recipe makes it approachable for everyone-from seasoned bakers seeking nostalgia to newcomers eager to impress.
With each bite, you'll taste the perfect blend of sweet and salty; the melty chocolate Kiss nestled at the center adds an irresistible touch. And for those wanting a twist, dark chocolate or peppermint-flavored Kisses can elevate this beloved treat even more. Whether you’re enjoying them with a steaming mug of cocoa or sharing them at a holiday gathering, these Peanut Butter Blossoms are guaranteed to spread cheer and create lasting memories. So, let's roll up our sleeves and dive into this delightful baking adventure!
Why will you love Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe?
Simplicity: The Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe features straightforward steps that anyone can master, making it perfect for baking novices and seasoned pros alike.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of soft peanut butter cookie and melting chocolate creates a delightful taste experience that's sweet and salty at the same time.
Versatile Variations: Want to switch things up? You can easily substitute dark chocolate or peppermint-flavored Kisses for a festive twist.
Perfect for Sharing: These cookies are made to impress; their classic appeal makes them a hit at any holiday gathering.
Comfort in Every Bite: Each cookie evokes cozy, nostalgic memories of holiday baking with loved ones, filling your kitchen with joy.
Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe Ingredients
• For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour - Essential for the cookie base, providing structure and texture.
- Granulated sugar - Adds sweetness and helps in browning; you can use extra for rolling the cookies.
- Light brown sugar - Enhances flavor depth and adds moisture to the cookies.
- Unsalted butter - Creates a tender texture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Creamy peanut butter - The star of the show that adds rich flavor and moisture; natural works well if not too oily.
- Large egg - Binds the ingredients together and adds richness to your cookies.
- Vanilla extract - A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- Baking soda - Acts as a leavening agent to help the cookies rise beautifully.
- Salt - Balances sweetness and intensifies flavors for that perfect bite.
• For the Topping
- Milk chocolate Hershey's Kisses - Add a signature sweet touch and a delightful visual appeal to each cookie; variants like dark chocolate or peppermint-flavored Kisses can provide a tasty twist.
These ingredients come together in the Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe, creating delightful holiday cookies that your loved ones will crave!
How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms
Preheat the oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, blend in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the peanut butter mixture, stirring just until combined to maintain a fluffy texture.
Shape cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then coat them in granulated sugar. Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving enough space between them for spreading.
Bake: Place the sheets in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they're ready when the edges are golden and the cookies are slightly puffed. As soon as they come out of the oven, press a Hershey's Kiss firmly into the center of each cookie.
Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: For a festive touch, sprinkle with a bit of sea salt before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Butter Blossoms are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. If you’re really short on time, you can even scoop and shape the dough balls, coat them in sugar, and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and allow them to sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before pressing a chocolate Kiss into the center and baking. This way, you’ll enjoy perfectly chewy cookies just as delectable as if they were freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms
Room Temperature: Store cookies at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep them soft and chewy.
Fridge: If preferred, you can keep them in the fridge for up to a week-just make sure they're in a sealed container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet after baking, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Peanut Butter Blossoms, thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until warm.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe?
These delightful cookies pair beautifully with a variety of comforting treats, making every bite a festive celebration.
Hot Cocoa: The rich creaminess of hot cocoa complements the cookies' sweet and salty flavors, enhancing the holiday spirit.
Spiced Chai: The aromatic spices of chai create a warm contrast to the cookies, inviting cozy conversations by the fireplace.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that balances the peanut butter’s richness, making for a fantastic dessert.
Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee brings out the peanut butter’s nuttiness, creating a comforting pairing for those midday breaks.
Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits like apples and pears offer a refreshing contrast, lightening the dessert table and adding a pop of color.
Gingerbread Cookies: For the ultimate holiday treat platter, include spicy gingerbread cookies to create a delicious contrast with the Peanut Butter Blossoms.
Indulging in these pairings not only enhances the experience of the classic Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe but also elevates your festive gatherings with a touch of warmth and joy.
Variations & Substitutions for Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe
Customize your cookie experience with delightful twists that will make these cookies uniquely yours.
Dairy-Free: Substitute vegan butter and use a flax or chia egg for a delicious vegan version.
Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped peanuts or walnuts to the dough for an extra layer of texture that complements the creamy peanut butter.
Minty Fresh: Swap the milk chocolate Kisses for peppermint-flavored ones to give your cookies a refreshing holiday twist.
Spicy Sweetness: Mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warm, spicy flavor that really kicks the cookies up a notch.
Mocha Delight: Replace the vanilla extract with espresso powder to add a subtle coffee flavor, enhancing the chocolatey experience.
Coconut Bliss: Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical flair that beautifully contrasts with the peanut butter.
Colorful Sprinkles: Before baking, roll the dough balls in festive holiday sprinkles to add a fun and cheerful touch to your cookies.
Chewy Pumpkin: For a fall-inspired version, replace 1/4 cup of the peanut butter with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin pie spice; it’s a seasonal delight!
Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe
Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes helps maintain the cookie shape and prevents over-spreading during baking; a key factor in achieving perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms.
Butter Temperature Matters: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for an airy, light blend. Cold butter can lead to dense cookies.
Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close watch while baking! For ideal results, the edges should be golden but the centers should still feel slightly soft when you take them out.
Variations Galore: Don't hesitate to explore by swapping in dark chocolate or peppermint Kisses for a festive twist on the classic Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe.
Storage Tips: Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh, or freeze them for up to 3 months for a quick holiday treat later!
Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe FAQs
What type of peanut butter should I use for the Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe?
I recommend using creamy peanut butter for the best texture and flavor. Natural peanut butter can also be used, but make sure it's well-stirred so it isn't too oily. Look for a brand that has minimal additives for pure peanut flavor.
How can I store my Peanut Butter Blossoms once baked?
Store your delicious Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for a week, ensuring they're sealed properly to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms? How do I do it?
Absolutely! Freeze your cookies by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once they are firm, transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Peanut Butter Blossoms spread too much, it could be due to using warm butter or not chilling the dough. To fix this, try chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes before rolling it, and ensure your butter is at room temperature-not melted.
Are there any dietary considerations for making Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Definitely! If you're looking to make a vegan version, substitute regular butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes) instead of the large egg. Also, check for allergy concerns regarding peanuts and chocolate variants when sharing with friends.
Irresistibly Sweet & Salty Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy. Blend in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the peanut butter mixture, stirring just until combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat them in granulated sugar. Place on baking sheets, leaving space between each ball.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden and cookies are slightly puffed. Press a Hershey’s Kiss into each cookie as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Sprinkle with a bit of sea salt before serving.
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