Peanut Butter Blossoms

Easy Peanut Butter Blossoms are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate. These cookies are perfect for holidays, parties, or any time you crave a soft and chewy dessert. With a simple recipe passed down through generations, this version is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. The iconic Hershey’s chocolate kiss nestled in the center makes them stand out, making these cookies suitable for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 15 minutes to prep, making it an easy choice for last-minute gatherings.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sugar creates incredibly soft cookies that melt in your mouth.
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are not just for Christmas; they can be enjoyed year-round at any celebration or simply as an afternoon snack.
• Family Tradition: Passed down for over 60 years, this recipe holds special memories and is sure to create new ones with each batch.
• Kid-Friendly: Baking these cookies is a fun activity you can do with kids, allowing them to help with rolling and placing the chocolate kisses.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Peanut Butter Blossoms, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process. Having the right equipment helps create perfect cookies every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl provides enough space to combine ingredients without mess.
• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and ensures that your butter and sugars blend until light and fluffy.
• Baking sheet: A good-quality baking sheet helps cookies bake evenly for the best texture.

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

For the Dry Ingredients

• 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

How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms

Step 1: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and regular sugar for about 4 minutes. You want it light and fluffy, which ensures no graininess remains from the sugar.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the creamy peanut butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract into the mixture. Cream everything together for another 2 minutes while scraping down the sides of the bowl often.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Stir in flour, baking soda, and salt into your dough until just combined. If you have time, let the dough chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While waiting for it to heat up, roll your dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball into sugar before placing them on a lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Bake Cookies

Bake your cookies for about 8–10 minutes or until they are cooked through but still soft in texture.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Kisses

As soon as they come out of the oven, unwrap your Hershey Kisses ready to top each warm cookie. Press one kiss into each cookie gently. Allow them to cool before transferring from the baking sheet.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut Butter Blossoms are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family dessert, serving these cookies can elevate the experience.

With Milk

• Perfect Pairing: Serve warm Peanut Butter Blossoms with a cold glass of milk. The creamy peanut butter and chocolate kiss blend beautifully with the refreshing taste of milk.

On a Dessert Platter

• Festive Touch: Arrange your Peanut Butter Blossoms on a colorful dessert platter for parties. Add other cookies or sweets for an appealing assortment that delights guests.

With Ice Cream

• A Sweet Surprise: Top each cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. The warm cookie combined with cold ice cream creates a heavenly contrast.

As Party Favors

• Thoughtful Gift: Package Peanut Butter Blossoms in decorative bags as party favors. This personal touch makes your guests feel special and adds sweetness to any occasion.

With Coffee

• Morning Delight: Enjoy Peanut Butter Blossoms alongside your morning coffee. The rich flavors of both pair nicely, making it a delightful breakfast or snack option.

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How to Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms

To ensure your Peanut Butter Blossoms turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let butter and eggs sit out until they reach room temperature. This helps create a uniform mixture and results in softer cookies.

• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. Chilling firmens up the dough and prevents cookies from spreading too much during baking.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies while baking. Remove them when they are just set but still soft in the center to maintain their chewy texture.

• Press Kisses Gently: When adding Hershey Kisses, press them gently into the center of warm cookies. This ensures they melt slightly without falling apart.

Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Blossoms

While Peanut Butter Blossoms shine on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert table. Here are some excellent options:

1. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad balances the richness of the cookies and adds freshness to your dessert spread.

2. Chocolate Fondue: Dip leftover cookie halves into warm chocolate fondue for an extra indulgent treat that everyone will love.

3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory contrast to sweet cookies, offering variety on your dessert table.

4. Coffee Cake: Serve slices of coffee cake alongside your cookies for a delightful brunch option that pairs wonderfully with coffee.

5. Ice Cream Sundaes: Create ice cream sundaes featuring scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream topped with crushed Peanut Butter Blossoms for added flavor.

6. Brownie Bites: Mini brownie bites complement the flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, providing another layer of sweetness to enjoy together.

7. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: Crisp apple slices dipped in caramel offer a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with soft cookies.

8. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual cheesecakes add elegance to your dessert spread and complement the rich flavors of peanut butter flawlessly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Peanut Butter Blossoms can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the creaming process: Failing to cream the butter and sugars well can lead to dense cookies. Take your time to achieve a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients correctly: Using too much or too little flour can alter the cookie’s texture. Always use proper measuring cups and techniques.
• Overbaking the cookies: Baking too long will make them hard instead of soft and chewy. Keep an eye on them, as they should be slightly underbaked.
• Chilling the dough for too short a time: If you skip chilling, the cookies may spread too much. Allow at least 30 minutes for better shape and texture.
• Pressing kisses in too early: Adding Hershey Kisses while the cookies are still hot is crucial. Wait until they cool slightly to avoid melting completely.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing Peanut Butter Blossoms

• Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Place wax paper between layers of cookies for easy separation.

Reheating Peanut Butter Blossoms

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake for 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it to warm evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Peanut Butter Blossoms, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead?

Yes, you can substitute creamy peanut butter with crunchy if you prefer extra texture in your cookies.

How do I store leftover Peanut Butter Blossoms?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for extended freshness.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

Improper measurements or skipping the chilling step can cause excessive spreading. Be sure to chill the dough properly.

Can I customize my Peanut Butter Blossoms?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even drizzle melted chocolate on top for variation.

Final Thoughts

Peanut Butter Blossoms are not only a family favorite but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their soft, chewy texture combined with a chocolate kiss makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize these cookies with your favorite mix-ins or toppings. Give this delightful recipe a try, and enjoy the warm comfort it brings!