There’s a certain joy that fills the air when the sweet, nutty aroma of baking peanut butter cookies starts to waft through your home. Just the thought of cozy Peanut Butter Blossoms brings back memories of leisurely afternoons spent in the kitchen, where a handful of simple ingredients transformed into delightful treats. On one particularly chilly day, I decided to indulge in this classic recipe, and to my surprise, I stumbled upon the perfect cheat for an impressively delicious dessert.
These cookies, perfectly soft in the center with a delightful crunch on the edges, topped with a delectable Hershey’s Kiss, are an instant crowd-pleaser. They come together with minimal effort—ideal for a quick baking session when the craving strikes. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply looking to satisfy that sweet tooth, these Peanut Butter Blossoms are sure to bring warmth and smiles all around. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s bound to make your kitchen the heart of the home!
Why Love Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Irresistible sweetness shines in every bite, perfectly combining creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate. Quick to make, this recipe is a breeze for novice bakers and pros alike, ensuring you can whip up a batch whenever cravings hit. Family favorite status is guaranteed, making them a hit at any gathering. Plus, kid-friendly fun awaits as little ones help roll the dough and press on the kisses. For more baking inspiration, check out my guide on baking with kids.
Peanut Butter Blossoms Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• All-purpose flour – 1 ¾ cups for that perfect cookie structure.
• Granulated sugar – ½ cup plus extra for rolling; adds sweetness and texture.
• Light brown sugar – ½ cup, packed to enhance moisture and flavor depth.
• Unsalted butter – ½ cup, softened; ensures a rich and creamy dough.
• Creamy peanut butter – ½ cup, the star of your Peanut Butter Blossoms!
• Large egg – 1, for binding all the ingredients together.
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp to elevate the cookie’s flavor profile.
• Baking soda – 1 tsp for a soft and chewy texture.
• Salt – ¼ tsp to balance the sweetness.
For the Topping
• Milk chocolate Hershey’s Kisses – 24, unwrapped; the perfect delightful finish to each cookie.
How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
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Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined.
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Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined to keep that cookie texture soft.
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Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar until fully coated. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are slightly puffy. Remove from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie.
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Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing their flavors to settle and deepen.
Optional: Drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra touch of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms
Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store in the fridge for up to 1 week. Ensure they are in a sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months!
Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.
Peanut Butter Blossoms Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can enhance your Peanut Butter Blossoms into something uniquely yours!
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Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) and use plant-based butter and peanut butter.
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Nut-Free: Use sun butter or soy nut butter instead of peanut butter for a delicious allergen-friendly alternative that’s still creamy and satisfying.
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Chocolate Variations: Mix in mini chocolate chips into the dough for an extra chocolatey treat that will satisfy every chocolate lover’s dream.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough to give your cookies a warm spice that complements the peanut butter beautifully.
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Crunchy Texture: Replace half of the creamy peanut butter with crunchy peanut butter for added texture and nutty flavor that elevates each bite.
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Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto a baking sheet and swirl in sweetened condensed milk or melted chocolate before baking for a marbled effect.
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Fruity Burst: Add finely chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a hint of sweetness and chewiness, creating a delightful contrast with the rich chocolate.
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Heat Lover’s Surprise: Mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the dough for a surprising kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness!
Helpful Tricks for Peanut Butter Blossoms
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Measure Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for flour to avoid dense cookies. Too much flour can lead to dry Peanut Butter Blossoms.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for a smooth, well-combined dough, preventing lumps.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies rather than the soft, chewy texture you desire.
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Perfectly Placed Kisses: Press the Hershey’s Kisses into the cookies right after they come out of the oven. This prevents them from sinking too much.
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Cooling Time Matters: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set without breaking apart.
Make Ahead Options
Peanut Butter Blossoms are the perfect treat for busy home cooks looking to streamline their baking experience! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This helps maintain their freshness and flavor. Additionally, you can roll the dough into balls and refrigerate them, ready to be rolled in sugar right before baking, ensuring they remain just as delicious. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the chilled dough balls as directed and top them with the Hershey’s Kisses. Enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked cookies with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Blossoms?
There’s something special about pairing these sweet gems with complementary delights that further enhances their charm and brings joy to any gathering.
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Rich Chocolate Milk: A classic pairing that balances the nutty flavor of the cookies with creamy indulgence, leaving you with a satisfying aftertaste.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness of vanilla ice cream serves as a delightful contrast to the cookies’ chewy texture, creating a delicious harmony in every bite.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries add a burst of freshness, cutting through the sweetness and elevating the cookie experience to new heights.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm mug alongside these treats creates a perfect cozy moment, enhancing the rich flavors while offering a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: For something unexpected, the subtle sweetness of honey-glazed carrots brings a warm, vibrant flavor that complements the nutty cookies beautifully.
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Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch of pretzels dipped in chocolate adds texture and a savory balance that perfectly contrasts the soft, sweet cookies.
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Warm Apple Cider: Nothing says comfort like a warm drink! The spiced sweetness of apple cider creates a beautiful backdrop to the rich flavors of peanut butter.
Indulging in any of these options will surely magnify the joy of sharing your homemade Peanut Butter Blossoms!
Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right peanut butter for my Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend using creamy peanut butter that’s free of additives. Look for brands that have just peanuts and salt listed in the ingredients. Natural peanut butter may require a little extra mixing and can yield a different texture, so stick with creamy for those soft, chewy cookies.
How should I store Peanut Butter Blossoms to keep them fresh?
Keep your Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a bit longer shelf life, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure the container is sealed tight to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your Peanut Butter Blossoms, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid—approximately 1-2 hours. After that, transfer your cookies into a freezer-safe bag or container, layering parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven.
What should I do if my dough is too dry or crumbly?
If your dough is feeling dry, you might need a splash more of liquid to bring everything together! I suggest adding a teaspoon of milk or a little more peanut butter, mixing until you achieve that smooth, cohesive texture. Sometimes, little variations in flour measurement can make a difference, so check your approach!
Are there any dietary considerations for Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Certainly! If you have nut allergies, you can substitute the peanut butter with a sunbutter made from sunflower seeds or another nut-free butter of your choice. Just be sure to double-check ingredient lists for any other allergens, especially in the chocolate kisses. And keep in mind that these cookies are not suitable for dogs due to the chocolate.
Deliciously Chewy Peanut Butter Blossoms You’ll Crave
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter in a large mixing bowl for 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, stirring until fully combined.
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar until fully coated. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the cookies are slightly puffy. Remove from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.