Name: Peanut Butter Blossoms: The Ultimate Holiday Cookie Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (Sifted); ½ cup granulated sugar (Plus extra for rolling); ½ cup light brown sugar (Packed); ½ cup unsalted butter (Softened); ¾ cup creamy peanut butter (Well-stirred); 1 large egg (Room temperature); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Pure); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Check freshness); 1 pinch salt (Essential for flavor); 24 pieces milk chocolate Hershey’s Kisses (Substitutions optional)

As I stood in my kitchen, the comforting aroma of baking cookies wrapped around me like a warm hug. There’s something magical about making Peanut Butter Blossoms, especially during the holiday season. These delightful cookies marry the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet surprise of a Hershey’s Kiss right in the center. The best part? They’re not just easy to whip up; they’re also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing at festive gatherings or cozy nights in. Imagine filling your home with cozy scents while creating a treat that brings smiles to everyone’s faces. Plus, they can be frozen or made ahead—ideal for busy holiday schedules. Ready to discover the joy of holiday baking with these sweet and salty cookies? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Peanut Butter Blossoms So Special?

Nostalgic Flavor: These cookies evoke cherished memories of family gatherings, filling hearts and homes with warmth.

Easy Recipe: Even novice bakers can create these delightful treats with minimal effort—perfect for holiday baking!

Versatile Options: You can swap chocolate kisses for dark or mint varieties, making them unique for every occasion.

Crowd-Pleasers: Guaranteed to bring smiles, these cookies are a hit at any festive gathering or cozy night in.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for busy schedules—prepare the dough ahead and bake fresh cookies when you need them! For a full meal to pair with these treats, try my delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe!

Peanut Butter Blossoms Ingredients

• Classic cookies with a sweet twist!

For the Dough
All-Purpose Flour – Provides essential structure to these peanut butter blossoms; whole wheat can add a delightful nuttiness.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a lovely texture; roll cookie balls in extra sugar for a sugary finish.
Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a deeper flavor; swap for dark brown sugar if you prefer a richer taste.
Unsalted Butter – Brings a creamy richness; use salted butter for a slightly different flavor profile.
Creamy Peanut Butter – The star ingredient that imparts a nutty flavor; ensure it’s well-stirred to avoid crumbly dough.
Large Egg – Acts as a binder for the ingredients, keeping the cookies moist; consider a flax egg for a vegan option.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure extract to achieve the best taste.
Baking Soda – Creates a light texture and helps the cookies rise; always check its freshness for the best results.
Salt – Balances sweetness and elevates flavors; can’t skip this for optimal taste!
For Topping
Milk Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses – A delightful finishing touch that brings sweetness and a rich chocolate experience; try substituting with dark chocolate or peppermint-flavored Kisses for a festive twist.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Blossoms

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s hot enough to bake the cookies evenly. While that’s happening, line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. This initial setup creates a smooth baking process for your delightful Peanut Butter Blossoms.

Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of light brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add in ¾ cup of creamy peanut butter, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want a soft, cohesive dough that will form perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms.

Step 4: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar for a delightful finish. Place the sugar-coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking. This step ensures your cookies will rise beautifully and maintain their shape.

Step 5: Bake the Cookies
Put the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Watch closely until the edges are lightly golden, yet the centers remain soft. As soon as you remove them from the oven, immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie, allowing the cookies to slightly crack for a charming touch.

Step 6: Cool the Cookies
Let your Peanut Butter Blossoms cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the cookies to firm up slightly and makes it easier to transfer them without breaking. Afterward, carefully move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the chocolate to set perfectly as they cool.

Peanut Butter Blossoms Variations

Customize your Peanut Butter Blossoms with these fun twists and alternatives that will bring extra joy to your baking experience!

Dark Chocolate: Swap milk chocolate Kisses for rich dark chocolate Kisses for a more intense flavor contrast.
Minty Surprise: Use peppermint-flavored Kisses for a festive touch; these cookies will feel like a holiday celebration in every bite.
Nut Butter Twist: Try almond or cashew butter instead of peanut butter for new nutty dimensions.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) to make these cookies plant-based friendly.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities, ensuring everyone can enjoy them.
Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the cookie balls in a mix of sugar and cinnamon for added warmth and spice, perfect for cozy winter gatherings.
Chunky Style: Mix in semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips with the dough for extra chocolate and texture; a delicious surprise in each crumb.
Festive Sprinkles: Add colorful holiday sprinkles on top of the chocolate kisses right after you press them in to add a cheerful pop of color.

Get creative with these variations and make your holiday cookie tradition uniquely yours! And if you’re in the mood for more comfort, why not pair these cookies with a warm bowl of Honey Butter Rice for a delightful treat?

Make Ahead Options

Peanut Butter Blossoms are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance; simply roll the dough into balls, roll them in sugar, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This way, you can pop fresh cookies in the oven whenever you crave that sweet treat. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven, place the chilled dough on a baking sheet, and bake for 10-12 minutes. This approach maintains the cookies’ beloved shape and texture, ensuring they are just as delicious as fresh-baked. Enjoy the convenience of having these delightful holiday cookies ready whenever you need them!

What to Serve with Peanut Butter Blossoms

Nothing complements these delightful treats like a spread of cozy comfort foods and warm beverages that elevate your holiday experience.

Hot Cocoa: Experience the rich, chocolatey indulgence of hot cocoa, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cookies. A dollop of whipped cream on top makes it an extra special treat.
Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices and creamy texture of chai enhance the nutty flavors in the cookies, creating a harmonious pairing that warms both heart and soul.
Pumpkin Pie: This classic holiday dessert introduces a contrasting flavor profile with its spiced pumpkin filling, creating a festive dessert trio that delights guests.
Chewy Oatmeal Cookies: Go with a contrasting chewy texture to keep your cookie spread inviting. The wholesome oats will beautifully complement the richness of the Peanut Butter Blossoms.
Chocolate Milk: Embrace the kid-friendly nostalgia of a glass of chilled chocolate milk alongside these cookies; it’s sure to please any audience!
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creamy sweetness and a refreshing touch, balancing the rich peanut butter flavor for a dreamy dessert experience.
Red Wine: A glass of light-bodied red wine has fruity notes that pair nicely with the chocolate kisses, adding an adult twist to your holiday table.
Gingerbread Cookies: Create a festive cookie platter by adding gingerbread cookies; the spiced goodness will enhance your holiday spread with delightful flavor variations.

These enjoyable pairings will elevate your holiday gatherings and create lasting memories with each delicious bite!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Blossoms

• Dough Temperature: Chill the dough for 20-30 minutes if you want the cookies to hold their shape better during baking.

• Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the baking time; cookies should be removed when edges are golden but centers remain soft to prevent dryness.

• Storage Solutions: For best results, store Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container for up to 5 days; freezing extends their life to about 3 months.

• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different chocolate Kisses, like dark or mint-flavored, to make your Peanut Butter Blossoms uniquely festive.

• Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to ensure soft, chewy cookies rather than tough ones.

How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their soft, chewy texture and delightful flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer chilled cookies, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days; allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies, reheat frozen Peanut Butter Blossoms in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until just warm; this helps refresh their delightful texture.

Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe FAQs

What’s the best way to select peanut butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! For Peanut Butter Blossoms, I recommend choosing a creamy, well-stirred peanut butter for the best texture. Natural peanut butter can work, but make sure it’s thick and well-mixed to avoid crumbly dough. The flavor is key, so opt for a brand you love!

How should I store Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, try refrigerating them in the same container for up to a week. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before enjoying for the best taste!

Can I freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Yes! You can freeze your cookies for up to 3 months. To do this, first, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour. Once set, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Simply reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes when you’re ready to indulge!

What should I do if my dough seems crumbly?
If your dough is crumbly, it might be due to the type of peanut butter used or the flour measurement. To fix it, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water until it holds together better. Be sure to measure your flour properly—spooning it into the measuring cup rather than scooping can prevent excess!

Can I use alternative sweeteners or nut butters?
Certainly! For a lower-sugar option, you can swap the granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute that measures like sugar. You can also substitute peanut butter with almond or cashew butter; just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will change slightly.

Are Peanut Butter Blossoms safe for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, these cookies won’t be safe for individuals with nut allergies due to the peanut butter. However, you could make a nut-free variation by using sunflower seed butter, which mimics the creamy texture and offers a similar flavor profile!