Name: Peanut Butter Blossoms
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (softened); 3/4 cup smooth peanut butter; 1/3 cup granulated sugar; 1/3 cup packed brown sugar; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; extra granulated sugar (for rolling); 36 whole Hershey's Kisses (unwrapped)

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Nothing warms my heart like the smell of freshly baked cookies, and Peanut Butter Blossoms are my go-to treat when I want to bring a little joy into my home. I remember the first time I baked them with my grandmother—her laughter filled the kitchen as we rolled the dough and pressed the chocolate kisses right in the center. It became a cherished tradition, especially during the holidays when the sweet aroma would waft through the house, welcoming everyone in. These delightful cookies are not just easy to make but are also a perfect blend of nutty and sweet, making them irresistible to both kids and adults alike.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
10 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
90 kcal

Protein:
2 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
5 g

Tools Used:
Blender, Oven, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

The Charm of This Peanut Butter Blossoms

Why do I absolutely adore Peanut Butter Blossoms? Let me share a few reasons:

1. Nostalgic Flavor

The combination of creamy peanut butter and the rich, melty chocolate from the Hershey’s Kisses takes me back to my childhood. Each bite brings a wave of nostalgia that’s hard to resist.

2. Simple Ingredients

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make these cookies. Just some basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter come together to create something magical.

3. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a cozy evening at home, Peanut Butter Blossoms are perfect for any occasion. They bring smiles and joy to everyone who tries them.

4. Easy to Make

If you’re new to baking, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow. It’s a great way to build confidence in the kitchen while impressing your friends and family.

5. Versatile Treat

While the classic recipe is amazing, you can easily customize Peanut Butter Blossoms with different toppings or by adding mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for a twist on the original.

Essential Ingredients for Peanut Butter Blossoms

The ingredients chosen for Peanut Butter Blossoms work harmoniously to create a delightful cookie that’s soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. From the creamy peanut butter that adds richness to the soft butter that ensures a tender cookie, this combination is pure magic.

1/2 cup butter, softened – This rich fat is essential for creating a tender cookie.
3/4 cup smooth peanut butter – The star ingredient that gives the cookies their signature flavor.
1/3 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with the structure of the cookie.
1/3 cup packed brown sugar – Contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
1 large egg – Acts as a binder, giving the cookie its shape.
2 tablespoons milk – Adds moisture to the dough, making it easier to work with.
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the cookie, providing structure.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise, making them fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
extra granulated sugar for rolling – Adds a sweet coating to the outside.
36 whole Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped – These are pressed into the cookies for that signature finishing touch.

How to Cook Peanut Butter Blossoms

Making Peanut Butter Blossoms is a fun and interactive process that fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious scents. Let’s dive into the steps to create these delightful cookies that everyone will love.

First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
While the oven heats, line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside. This prevents the cookies from sticking and makes for easy cleanup.
In a large bowl, beat softened butter and smooth peanut butter together until they’re well blended. Look for a creamy, smooth consistency—this is crucial for the texture of your cookies.
Next, measure and add granulated sugar and brown sugar to the bowl. Stir until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration will help your cookies rise nicely.
Add in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir well until everything is incorporated. This will create a rich batter that’s both sweet and nutty.
Now, stir in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Mix until just incorporated—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Using a 1 1/2 tablespoon scoop, scoop the dough and roll it into balls between your palms. This step is not only fun but also makes sure your cookies are uniform in size.
Roll each ball in extra granulated sugar before placing them on the lined baking sheets. This sugar coating adds a delightful crunch to the exterior.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until they’re very lightly golden in color. Keep an eye on them; they should be soft and puffy when you take them out.
Immediately after removing them from the oven, press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Don’t worry if they crack around the edges; this is totally normal!
Allow the cookies to cool for about 5 minutes on the baking sheet. Then, transfer them to cooling racks to cool completely. This helps them maintain their shape and texture.
Store your cooled cookies in airtight containers for up to three days, although I bet they won’t last that long!

Things Worth Knowing

Use room temperature ingredients: Having your butter and egg at room temperature helps them blend smoothly into the batter.
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; underbaking slightly will keep them soft and chewy.
Chill the dough: If your kitchen is warm, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help prevent spreading.
Experiment with toppings: Try using different chocolate candies or even a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor boost!

How to Switch It Up

Ready to personalize your Peanut Butter Blossoms? Here are some fun ideas to switch things up and make this recipe your own:

Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls. Just roll them in sugar, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee.
Add-ins: Feel free to add in chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
Holiday Variations: You can switch the Hershey’s Kisses for seasonal candies like peppermint or caramel-filled chocolates for a festive twist.

Perfect Pairings for Peanut Butter Blossoms

When serving Peanut Butter Blossoms, consider these delightful pairings to enhance your cookie experience:

Milk: A classic pairing, nothing beats a glass of cold milk with these sweet treats.
Coffee: Enjoy your cookies alongside a warm cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up.
Tea: Pair these cookies with herbal or spiced tea for a comforting and cozy experience.
Ice Cream: Crumble some cookies over vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert sundae.
Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas for a refreshing contrast to the sweet cookies.
Holiday Celebrations: These cookies are perfect for Christmas or any festive gathering, bringing smiles to everyone.

FAQ

Absolutely! You can replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose has a good structure to hold the cookies together. They might turn out slightly different in texture, but they can still be delicious.

If stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Peanut Butter Blossoms can stay fresh for about three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just remember to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Yes, you can definitely use crunchy peanut butter! This will add a delightful texture to your cookies. Just keep in mind that the cookies may spread slightly differently, and the bites will have little crunches of peanut in each deliciously soft cookie.

If you don’t have Hershey’s Kisses, you can use any chocolate candy or even chocolate chips. Just keep in mind that the pressing will be different; with chocolate chips, you can simply sprinkle them on top right before baking or add them in the dough.

Conclusion

These Peanut Butter Blossoms are truly a delightful treat that captures the essence of comfort food. Whether you’re sharing them with family and friends or enjoying them solo, each cookie is a little piece of happiness. I encourage you to whip up a batch and experience the joy they bring. Trust me, once you make them, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire.