Name: Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe: A Sweet Holiday Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (No gluten-free substitutions included.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Extra sugar is used for rolling.); 0.5 cup Light Brown Sugar (Can be substituted with dark brown sugar.); 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (Use at room temperature.); 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (Opt for well-stirred natural peanut butter.); 1 large Large Egg (Can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Pure vanilla is preferred.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Acts as a leavening agent.); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness.); 24 pieces Hershey’s Kisses (Consider substituting with dark chocolate or peppermint-flavored Kisses.)

As I stood in my kitchen last holiday season, the sweet, nutty scent dancing through the air, I stumbled upon the perfect recipe that brings every family member together—Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms. These delightful cookies marry the creamy goodness of peanut butter with the deliciousness of melted Hershey’s Kisses, creating a sweet and salty treat that feels like a warm hug. What’s more, this Peanut Butter Blossoms recipe is incredibly easy to whip up, making it a fantastic choice for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices alike. Plus, with their nostalgic charm and simple ingredients, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering. Curious about how to make these scrumptious cookies that promise to become a holiday staple? Let’s dive in!

Why are Peanut Butter Blossoms irresistible?

**Nostalgic **: These cookies are a classic holiday treat that evokes cherished memories of family gatherings.
Easy to Make: This Peanut Butter Blossoms recipe requires minimal effort, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Sweet and Salty: The unique combination of creamy peanut butter and melted chocolate creates an unforgettable flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Versatile Variations: Customize your cookies by swapping out chocolate Kisses for dark chocolate or peppermint-flavored options, adding a twist to this beloved recipe.
Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch to share with friends, family, or colleagues; they’re sure to be a hit!
If you’re looking for more festive treats, check out my Gooey Butter Cookies for a delicious pairing or try the *Gingerbread Latte Cake* to bring even more holiday warmth to your celebrations.

Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe Ingredients

• To create these delightful Peanut Butter Blossoms, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; no gluten-free substitutions included.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookie and helps achieve a slightly crisp texture; extra sugar is used for rolling.
Light Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor; can be substituted with dark brown sugar for a richer taste.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes to softness and richness; use at room temperature for easy blending, or swap for vegan butter if dairy-free.
Creamy Peanut Butter – The star ingredient that binds everything together; opt for well-stirred natural peanut butter for best results.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; pure vanilla is preferred for the best taste.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to give the cookies a slight rise.
Salt – Balances sweetness and boosts flavor.

For the Topping

Hershey’s Kisses – The classic chocolate topping that melts into the cookie; consider substituting with dark chocolate or peppermint-flavored Kisses for a twist.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper, ensuring an easy release for your cookies. This preparation sets the stage for baking your Peanut Butter Blossoms evenly and perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, incorporate the creamy peanut butter, large egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined. The dough should be smooth and invitingly aromatic.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt to combine. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until no streaks of flour remain. The completed dough should be slightly sticky yet manageable, showcasing the nutty essence of your Peanut Butter Blossoms.

Step 4: Shape and Roll
Using your hands, form the dough into 1-inch balls, ensuring they are uniform for even baking. Roll each ball in additional granulated sugar for a glistening finish before placing them on the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 5: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake your cookies for 10-12 minutes. Watch closely: they should be lightly golden and puffed, with slight crinkling around the edges. This is the perfect moment for a deliciously soft Peanut Butter Blossom!

Step 6: Add Kisses
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The chocolate should be perfectly positioned to melt slightly into the cookie while still maintaining its shape. This step adds a delightful visual and taste treat to your creation.

Step 7: Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, allowing them to set and the chocolate to stabilize. Once they are cool enough to handle, transfer the Peanut Butter Blossoms to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures a chewy and satisfying texture as you savor your festive cookies!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Blossoms

• Dough Temperature: Keep the dough cool while working to prevent spreading. If it’s getting warm, take a break in the fridge.

• Natural Peanut Butter: If using natural peanut butter, ensure it’s well-stirred for a manageable consistency and to avoid crumbly cookies.

• Chilling Time: For best results, chill the dough for 20-30 minutes before baking; this helps maintain their shape.

• Kiss Placement: Press the Hershey’s Kisses into the cookies immediately after baking. Letting them cool too long may cause them not to melt enough.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to swap chocolate Kisses for dark chocolate or peppermint versions for a festive twist. Enjoy these Peanut Butter Blossoms in new ways!

What to Serve with Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms?

The warmth of freshly baked cookies calls for delightful companions to create the perfect holiday treat experience.

Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, this classic pairing amplifies the cookies’ sweet and salty goodness, enhancing each bite with chocolatey warmth.
Spiced Chai: The aromatic spices in chai add a comforting, spiced note that beautifully contrasts the cookies’ sweetness, making every sip a memorable moment.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream adds a refreshing balance to the warmth of the cookies, melting deliciously as it mingles with the chocolate Kisses.
Milk: A beautiful classic! The coolness of milk washes down the rich flavors perfectly, turning your cookie feast into a comforting ritual.
Gingerbread Latte: The festive spices in this latte perfectly complement the cookies, wrapping your senses in a warm, holiday embrace that’s simply irresistible.
Peanut Butter Cup Milkshake: For the ultimate indulgence, a thick and creamy milkshake highlights the nutty flavors of the cookies, delivering a dreamy combination that delights every peanut butter lover.
Homemade Eggnog: Creamy and spiced, eggnog elevates the holiday treat experience, creating a festive connection that embodies the spirit of the season.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a vibrant burst of color and tartness to balance the cookies’ richness, bringing a touch of freshness to your dessert spread.
Dark Chocolate Drizzled Croissant: The buttery croissant provides a delightful textural contrast, while dark chocolate enhances the decadent experience alongside the cookies.

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a beautifully satisfying holiday treat table!

Make Ahead Options

These Peanut Butter Blossoms are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dough as instructed and shape it into 1-inch balls, then roll them in sugar. Store the rolled dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator, which helps prevent browning and keeps the cookies fresh. When you’re ready to bake, just place the dough balls on your baking sheet and follow the baking instructions, adding the Hershey’s Kisses immediately after they come out of the oven. This way, you can enjoy warm, delectable Peanut Butter Blossoms with minimal effort any day of the week!

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms

Room Temperature: Store baked Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness and chewy texture.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cookies, but they’ll last only about 3-4 days. Simply ensure they’re in an airtight container.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through, perfect for a cozy treat!

Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful variations and put your unique spin on the classic recipe!

Dark Chocolate: Swap out Hershey’s Kisses for dark chocolate kisses for a richer flavor that adds depth to each bite.
Peppermint Twist: Use peppermint-flavored Kisses to give your cookies a festive, minty kick that’s perfect for holiday gatherings—every bite delivers a sweet surprise!
Sea Salt Finish: Enhance the flavor by sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the chocolate kisses just after baking; this classic sweet-and-salty combo will brighten your cookies.
Nut-Free Delight: For a nut-free alternative, replace peanut butter with sun butter or any nut-free spread that fits your dietary needs—don’t miss out on the fun just because you have allergies!
Chocolate Chip Boost: Fold in chocolate chips (dark or milk) into the dough for an extra chocolatey experience and a delightful texture contrast.
Cookie Butter Craze: Replace the peanut butter with cookie butter for a unique flavor twist that children and adults alike will adore—each cookie offers cozy hints of spices and sweetness!
Oatmeal Crunch: For added texture, mix in a cup of quick oats to the dough; the oatmeal adds a chewiness that balances beautifully with the creamy peanut butter.
Cocoa Blend: Add ¼ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey spin on the classic—your Peanut Butter Blossoms will have an irresistible double chocolate flavor.

For additional festive treats, you might want to try my delicious Gooey Butter Cookies or warming Gingerbread Latte Cake, perfect for spreading holiday cheer around the table!

Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my peanut butter is fresh?
Absolutely! The best way to check the freshness of your peanut butter is to look for a good separation of oil on the surface, which indicates it’ll mix well with other ingredients when stirred. If it has an off smell or taste, it may be time to replace it.

How should I store my Peanut Butter Blossoms?
For maximum freshness, store your baked Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about 3-4 days, but make sure they are included in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Absolutely! To freeze your Peanut Butter Blossoms, allow them to cool completely after baking. Arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, which usually takes about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 3 months!

What do I do if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your dough is too crumbly, it’s often due to insufficient moisture. Try adding a little more creamy peanut butter or a teaspoon of water at a time until the dough holds together better. Additionally, make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing; this helps create a soft, cohesive dough.

Are Peanut Butter Blossoms suitable for people with nut allergies?
While Peanut Butter Blossoms typically contain peanut butter, you can easily make them nut-free by substituting the peanut butter with sun butter or another nut-free spread of your choice. Just ensure you check the ingredients on any alternative to prevent cross-contamination with nuts.

What can I do with leftover dough before baking?
If you have leftover dough or want to make your cookies ahead of time, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag; when ready to bake, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and shape into balls, roll them in sugar, and bake as usual!