Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe – Delicious & Easy

Peanut butter blossom cookies are a beloved classic, combining the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because you have a craving for something delicious, these cookies are a sure hit. They are easy to make, fun to eat, and have a texture that’s both soft and chewy. In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know to create your own perfect batch of peanut butter blossom cookies, from the history and origins to the precise recipe and baking tips. By the end, you’ll be ready to bake these irresistible treats and share them with friends and family.

Overview of Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

Peanut butter blossom cookies are simple yet satisfying. The traditional recipe consists of a peanut butter cookie base, topped with a Hershey’s Kiss chocolate. It’s the perfect combination of salty and sweet, making each bite incredibly satisfying. These cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can add your own twist to the basic recipe, such as using different types of chocolate or adding extra ingredients to suit your taste. Regardless of how you make them, peanut butter blossom cookies are always a crowd-pleaser.

History of Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

Origins and Popularity

Peanut butter blossom cookies first became popular in the United States during the 1950s. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate was not new, but this unique cookie recipe captured the hearts of many home bakers. It is believed that the Hershey’s Kiss at the center of the cookie came from an idea that was popularized by Hershey’s themselves. As time went on, the recipe for peanut butter blossom cookies began to appear in cookbooks and on the back of ingredient packages, making it accessible to a wide audience.

The rise in popularity of peanut butter blossom cookies can be attributed to their easy preparation and the fact that they are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s Christmas, a birthday party, or a simple afternoon snack, these cookies fit the bill. Thanks to their popularity, they have become a staple in many households and are even a favorite at holiday cookie exchanges.

Ingredients You Need

Making perfect peanut butter blossom cookies requires a handful of essential ingredients, many of which you may already have in your kitchen. Let’s break it down into the basic ingredients and optional additions.

Essential Ingredients

These ingredients form the foundation of your peanut butter blossom cookies. They work together to create the ideal texture and flavor balance, with the perfect amount of sweetness and richness.

Use Best Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe for a variation of peanut butter cookies with different textures and flavors

Optional Additions

You can experiment with various ingredients to customize the cookies to your taste. Some options include:

• Adding mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts (such as peanuts or walnuts) to the dough.
• Swapping out the chocolate kisses for other types of chocolate or even caramel candies.
• Using natural peanut butter or almond butter for a different nutty flavor.
• Sprinkling some sea salt on top of the cookie for a sweet-and-salty contrast.

Kitchen Tools Required

Before you start baking your peanut butter blossom cookies, make sure you have the right tools at hand. The following kitchen tools are essential for ensuring the success of your cookies.

• Mixing Bowls: Use medium to large bowls for combining your ingredients.
• Electric Mixer: While you can mix by hand, an electric mixer makes the process faster and ensures a smooth dough.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key when baking, so make sure you have a set of measuring cups and spoons.
• Baking Sheets: Choose baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Cooling Racks: These are necessary to cool the cookies properly, ensuring they maintain their texture and don’t become soggy.

Having these tools in your kitchen will make the process much smoother, allowing you to bake like a pro.

If you’re short on ingredients, try making 3-Ingredient Cookies for a simple alternative

Step-by-Step Recipe

Now, let’s go through the process of baking peanut butter blossom cookies in detail. It’s easy to follow, and with a few simple steps, you’ll have delicious cookies ready to enjoy.

Mixing the Dough

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate, large bowl, beat the peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and continue to beat until combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is incorporated.

Shaping the Cookies

1. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
2. Place the balls of dough on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
3. Gently press each ball down with the back of a spoon or your fingers, making a slight indentation in the center for the chocolate.

Baking the Cookies

1. Bake the cookies for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges.
2. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The heat will cause the chocolate to melt slightly and stick.
3. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies

To make sure your peanut butter blossom cookies turn out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, egg, and peanut butter are at room temperature before mixing. This will help the dough come together smoothly.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until the flour is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Be Mindful of the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while baking. If you overbake them, they will become dry and crunchy. You want them soft and chewy with just a slight golden hue around the edges.
• Press the Kisses Right After Baking: The Hershey’s Kiss should be placed in the center of the cookies while they are still warm so that the chocolate sticks without melting completely.

• Wondering if you can make these in advance? Check out Do Peanut Butter Cookies Freeze Well? to learn how to store them properly.

Variations to Try

If you want to mix things up or cater to different dietary needs, there are plenty of variations to try. Here are some ideas to make your peanut butter blossom cookies stand out.

Different Flavors

• Peanut Butter and Caramel: Swap the Hershey’s Kiss for a caramel-filled candy for a chewy, sweet center.
• Dark Chocolate: Use dark chocolate kisses instead of milk chocolate for a richer, less sweet flavor.
• White Chocolate: For a sweeter, milder taste, use white chocolate kisses in place of the regular ones.

Dietary Options

• Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make your cookies gluten-free.
• Vegan: Use a plant-based butter substitute and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
• Low-Sugar: Opt for a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit in place of the granulated and brown sugar.

These variations can help you tailor your peanut butter blossom cookies to different tastes and dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can enjoy them.

Storing and Freezing Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

When it comes to storing your peanut butter blossom cookies, you want to make sure they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Fortunately, these cookies are easy to store and freeze, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time.

How to Keep Them Fresh Longer

To keep your peanut butter blossom cookies fresh for a longer period, follow these simple steps:

• Room Temperature Storage: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about 5-7 days.
• Layering: If you have multiple layers of cookies, place a piece of wax paper or parchment paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
• Avoid Humidity: Keep the container in a cool, dry place. Humidity can cause the cookies to become soggy.

Freezing Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

If you want to extend the shelf life of your cookies, freezing is a great option. Here’s how to freeze them properly:

• Freeze the Dough: You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough. Roll the dough into balls, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about 1 hour. After that, store the dough balls in a zip-top freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Freeze Baked Cookies: If you’ve already baked your cookies, allow them to cool completely before freezing. Place the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can last up to 3 months.

Freezing is a great way to prepare ahead of time for events or simply to enjoy fresh cookies whenever you want.

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Baking is a precise art, and there are common mistakes that can affect the texture and taste of your peanut butter blossom cookies. Here are some common pitfalls, along with solutions for fixing them.

Mistake 1: Dry or Crumbly Cookies

• Solution: If your cookies turn out dry or crumbly, you may have overbaked them or used too much flour. To fix this, try reducing the baking time slightly and make sure to measure your ingredients properly.

Mistake 2: Overly Soft or Flat Cookies

• Solution: If your cookies spread too much and become flat, it’s likely that the dough was too warm or you didn’t chill it before baking. To solve this, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to help them hold their shape.

Mistake 3: Chocolate Kisses Not Staying On

• Solution: If the chocolate Kisses aren’t sticking to your cookies, press them into the cookies immediately after they come out of the oven while they are still soft. Don’t wait too long, as the cookies will firm up and the Kisses won’t adhere properly.

By addressing these common mistakes, you’ll improve your peanut butter blossom cookies and ensure a perfect batch every time.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing the right drink or dessert with your peanut butter blossom cookies can elevate the experience. Here are some great pairing suggestions to consider:

Best Drinks for Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

• Milk: The classic pairing, milk complements the richness of peanut butter and chocolate perfectly.
• Coffee: If you prefer a warm beverage, coffee’s slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the cookies.
• Hot Chocolate: For a truly indulgent treat, pair your cookies with a cup of hot chocolate, especially if it’s chilly outside.

Best Occasions for Serving Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

• Holiday Gatherings: These cookies are a popular choice for Christmas or Thanksgiving, adding a festive touch to your dessert spread.
• Birthday Parties: The fun chocolate Kiss on top makes these cookies a hit at birthday celebrations.
• Afternoon Snack: Whether you’re having a casual get-together or just enjoying a quiet afternoon, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Pairing these cookies with the right drink or occasion ensures a memorable experience for everyone.

Health Benefits of Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is more than just a delicious ingredient in your peanut butter blossom cookies; it also offers several health benefits. Here’s why adding peanut butter to your diet can be a good idea.

Nutritional Value and Benefits

Peanut butter is rich in protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins. Here are a few key benefits:

• Rich in Protein: Peanut butter contains about 8 grams of protein per 2-tablespoon serving, making it an excellent source of plant-based protein.
• Good Fats: The healthy monounsaturated fats in peanut butter can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and support heart health.
• Packed with Nutrients: It’s a good source of vitamins such as Vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium, which support overall health.

While peanut butter can be a nutritious part of your diet, remember to consume it in moderation to keep the calorie count in check, especially in cookies.

Fun Facts About Peanut Butter Blossoms

Did you know that peanut butter blossom cookies come with some fun trivia? Here are a few interesting facts about these iconic cookies.

Interesting Trivia

• Created in the 1950s: These cookies became popular in the 1950s, and they quickly became a staple at holiday cookie exchanges.
• Hershey’s Kisses Inspiration: The Kisses on top of the cookies were inspired by the popularity of Hershey’s Kisses candies. Over time, this combination became a signature of the peanut butter blossom cookie.
• Global Appeal: Although they originated in the United States, these cookies have spread to various parts of the world, where they are enjoyed during different festive seasons.

These fun facts show just how much history and charm are packed into every peanut butter blossom cookie.

FAQs

How to make peanut butter blossom cookies?

Making peanut butter blossom cookies is easy! First, combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, and salt). Then, mix together the peanut butter, butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients. Shape the dough into balls, bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, and press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center while the cookies are still warm. Let them cool completely before enjoying.

What are the ingredients of peanut butter blossom cookies?

The key ingredients are all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, peanut butter, butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, an egg, and vanilla extract. You’ll also need Hershey’s Kisses (or a similar chocolate) for the topping.

Peanut butter blossom calories?

A typical peanut butter blossom cookie contains around 100-120 calories per cookie, depending on the size and ingredients used. It’s important to remember that while they’re delicious, they should be enjoyed in moderation due to their sugar and fat content.

Blossom cookies without peanut butter?

If you’re looking for a peanut-free version, you can substitute the peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter. This will still give you the nutty flavor, though the texture may vary slightly.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned everything about peanut butter blossom cookies, from storing and freezing to troubleshooting common baking mistakes, you’re ready to bake your perfect batch. These cookies offer a delightful combination of peanut butter and chocolate that’s sure to impress anyone who tries them. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday gathering, an afternoon snack, or just satisfying a craving, you can confidently bake these cookies knowing exactly what to do at every step. Happy baking!