Peanut Butter Blossoms

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines nostalgia, flavor, and a touch of sweetness, then these Peanut Butter Blossoms are just what you need. This recipe has been a cherished favorite in my family for over 60 years. Every bite of these soft and chewy cookies topped with a chocolate kiss brings back warm memories of holiday gatherings and cozy afternoons in the kitchen. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or festive occasions—everyone loves them!

These delightful cookies not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also invite smiles from friends and family alike. Once you bake them, they’ll quickly become a staple in your home, just as they have in mine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these delicious cookies in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone from kids to grandparents loves Peanut Butter Blossoms! They’re sure to please any crowd.
• Make ahead convenience: Mix the dough ahead of time and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Perfect for unexpected guests!
• Irresistible flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate is simply divine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll love how simple and wholesome the ingredients are for these Peanut Butter Blossoms! Each one adds to the delightful flavor and texture that makes this cookie so special.

For the Cookie Dough

• 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

For Rolling

• Sugar (to roll cookie balls in)

Topping

• 1 pkg. Hershey Kisses

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to put your own spin on the classic Peanut Butter Blossoms.

• Swap the nut butter: Try using almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor profile.
• Add some spice: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the cookies.
• Mix in chocolate chips: Fold in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra chocolaty treat.
• Go gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy them!

How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together your softened butter along with both sugars for about four minutes. This step is crucial as it creates that light and fluffy texture we all love! Properly creamed butter helps dissolve the sugar completely, resulting in perfectly smooth cookies.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Next, add creamy peanut butter, egg, milk, and vanilla into your mixture. Beat everything together for another two minutes, making sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl often. This ensures every ingredient gets well incorporated, leading to beautifully flavorful cookies.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to stir in your flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined. If you’ve got some extra time on your hands, let the dough chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps enhance flavors and makes it easier to shape those cookie balls!

Step 4: Bake These Little Gems

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Roll the dough into one-inch balls and coat them lightly in sugar before placing them on a baking sheet. Bake for about 8-10 minutes until they’re cooked through but still soft. Remember—they’ll continue cooking slightly after being taken out of the oven!

Step 5: Add That Chocolate Kiss

While those delicious cookies are cooling slightly on their sheet, unwrap your Hershey Kisses. As soon as they come out of the oven, press one chocolate kiss into each cookie while they’re still warm. Let them cool completely before removing them from the baking sheet—you want that perfect soft center!

Enjoy baking and sharing these Peanut Butter Blossoms with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Peanut Butter Blossoms

Baking Peanut Butter Blossoms is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you can make them even more scrumptious!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allow your butter and eggs to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Once you add the flour mixture, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.

• Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes will help the cookies hold their shape while baking. This prevents them from spreading too much and keeps them nice and thick.

• Monitor baking time closely: Every oven is different! Start checking your cookies at the 8-minute mark to ensure they come out soft and chewy, rather than overbaked.

• Press gently on the chocolate kiss: When adding the Hershey’s Kiss, press down lightly so it sinks into the cookie without breaking it apart. This will create that perfect chocolatey center!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut Butter Blossoms bring joy to any gathering, whether it’s a cozy family get-together or a festive holiday party. Here are some serving ideas that will make your delicious cookies shine!

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance and sweetness, making these cookies visually appealing.

• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt some extra chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for an added touch of decadence. It’s a delightful way to enhance the chocolate factor!

Side Dishes

• Milk: A classic pairing! The creamy texture of milk beautifully complements the rich peanut butter flavor in these cookies.

• Coffee: For adults, a warm cup of coffee balances out the sweetness of Peanut Butter Blossoms perfectly, creating a comforting snack experience.

• Fruit Platter: Fresh fruits like strawberries or apple slices provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of these cookies, making for a well-rounded dessert table.

• Ice Cream: Pairing these warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream is always a crowd-pleaser! The combination of warm and cold textures is simply irresistible.

With these serving suggestions, your Peanut Butter Blossoms are sure to be a hit at any occasion! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Peanut Butter Blossoms are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh cookies anytime. With a little planning, you can make these delightful treats ahead of time and store them for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week.
• If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them.

Freezing

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour.
• Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating

• To enjoy warm cookies, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Peanut Butter Blossoms.

Can I use natural peanut butter for Peanut Butter Blossoms?

You can use natural peanut butter; however, it may alter the texture slightly. Look for a creamy variety without added sugar or oils for best results.

How do I ensure my Peanut Butter Blossoms come out soft?

To keep your Peanut Butter Blossoms soft and chewy, avoid overbaking them. Remove them from the oven just as they begin to set and allow them to cool on the baking sheet.

Can I substitute Hershey Kisses with other chocolates?

Absolutely! You can use any chocolate candy or even dairy-free options if you prefer. Just ensure they fit nicely on top of each cookie.

How long do Peanut Butter Blossoms last?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these delightful cookies will last about one week.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings warmth and joy into your kitchen as it has in mine for over sixty years! There’s something magical about the combination of peanut butter and chocolate that makes these Peanut Butter Blossoms truly special. Enjoy making these sweet treats with your loved ones, and don’t forget to share the love by trying this recipe! Happy baking!