Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut Butter Blossoms are a delightful treat that capture the essence of comfort and joy. These classic cookies combine the rich flavors of creamy peanut butter with the sweet surprise of a Hershey’s chocolate kiss at the center. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family get-togethers, or just a cozy night in, this recipe has been cherished in my family for over 60 years. Get ready to indulge in soft, chewy cookies that are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time.
• Family Favorite: This recipe has been passed down through generations, ensuring it’s a hit for all ages.
• Versatile Treat: Great for holiday celebrations or everyday snacking; these cookies fit any occasion.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate creates an irresistible taste that everyone loves.
• Perfect Texture: Enjoy soft and chewy cookies that melt in your mouth.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Peanut Butter Blossoms, gather your essential tools. Having everything on hand makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Electric Mixer
• Cookie Sheet
• Measuring Cups
• Measuring Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl helps mix all ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Electric Mixer: This tool ensures your butter and sugars become light and fluffy quickly.
• Cookie Sheet: A good-quality cookie sheet allows even baking for perfectly cooked 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 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

Dry Ingredients

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

For Coating

• Sugar (to roll cookie balls in)

Topping

• 1 pkg. Hershey Kisses

How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms

Step 1: Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 4 minutes until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth texture without any graininess from the sugar.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Add creamy peanut butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Continue creaming for another 2 minutes while scraping down the sides of the bowl often to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined. If you prefer an even better flavor and texture, let the dough chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare to Bake

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and coat them in granulated sugar before placing them on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

Bake your cookies for 8-10 minutes or until they are just cooked through but still soft. Remove them from the oven once lightly golden around the edges.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Kisses

While the cookies are still warm from the oven, unwrap your Hershey’s Kisses. Gently press one kiss into each cookie so it melts slightly into place. Allow them to cool on a wire rack before transferring them from the cookie sheet.

Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Blossoms!

How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut Butter Blossoms are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve them at a festive gathering or as a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to please. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing your Peanut Butter Blossoms with a cold glass of milk enhances the flavors and provides a classic comfort food experience.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter alongside other treats like brownies or chocolate chip cookies for an inviting display.

As Party Favors

• Wrap individual cookies in clear bags tied with a ribbon to create charming party favors that guests can take home.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm Peanut Butter Blossoms over scoops of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that combines textures and flavors.

For Holiday Baking Gifts

• Pack your cookies in decorative boxes as gifts for friends and family during the holiday season, spreading joy with homemade treats.

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How to Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms

To make your Peanut Butter Blossoms irresistible, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Softened butter and eggs blend better, resulting in a smoother dough and optimal texture.
• Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can enhance flavor and prevent spreading during baking.
• Watch your baking time: Remove the cookies from the oven when they appear just set; they will continue to firm up while cooling on the pan.
• Don’t skip the sugar coating: Rolling cookie balls in sugar before baking adds sweetness and gives them a beautiful finish.
• Press gently on Hershey Kisses: When adding the chocolates, press them lightly into the warm cookie to ensure they stick well.
• Store properly: Keep your Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container to maintain freshness and chewiness for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Blossoms

While Peanut Butter Blossoms shine on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some tasty options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip their cookies into melted chocolate for an extra treat.
3. Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee or rich espresso pairs perfectly with sweet cookies, enhancing their flavors.
4. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses that contrast nicely with the sweetness of peanut butter, such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie.
5. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light dish that complements the rich flavors of the cookies.
6. Nut Mixes: A bowl of assorted nuts provides crunch and savory notes alongside your sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter Blossoms is a joy, but some common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Improper measurements can ruin the balance. Use dry measuring cups for flour and sticky measures for peanut butter.
• Skipping Chilling Time: If you have time, letting the dough chill helps flavors meld and shapes set better. Don’t skip this step if possible.
• Baking at the Wrong Temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to 375 degrees for consistent results.
• Forgetting to Unwrap Kisses in Advance: Unwrapping Hershey’s kisses during baking time can slow you down. Do it beforehand so you can press them on quickly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Peanut Butter Blossoms

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They last up to 3 months.
• You can freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months as well.

Reheating Peanut Butter Blossoms

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5 minutes. This restores their softness.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan on low heat, covered, for about 2-3 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Peanut Butter Blossoms?

Peanut Butter Blossoms are soft and chewy peanut butter cookies topped with a Hershey’s chocolate kiss. They are a classic holiday treat enjoyed by many.

How do I make my Peanut Butter Blossoms softer?

To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking and consider chilling the dough before baking. This helps maintain moisture.

Can I substitute crunchy peanut butter in Peanut Butter Blossoms?

Yes! You can use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy if you prefer added texture in your cookies.

How long do Peanut Butter Blossoms last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies will stay fresh for up to one week at room temperature or longer when frozen.

Is there a way to customize Peanut Butter Blossoms?

Absolutely! You can add different types of chocolate or nuts, or even drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Blossoms are not only a delightful treat but also versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy and satisfying it is!