Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist are a delightful treat that brings joy to any holiday gathering. These cookies combine soft peanut butter dough with the rich sweetness of chocolate, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Ideal for cookie exchanges, festive dessert tables, or as a special gift for loved ones, this recipe is both simple to follow and sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients, these cookies come together quickly, making them perfect for busy holiday bakers.
- Delicious Flavor Combo: The mix of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolate offers a delightful contrast that appeals to all ages.
- Versatile for Occasions: Whether it’s special occasion , birthdays, or just a cozy family gathering, these cookies fit right in.
- Great for Sharing: Bake a batch and share them at parties or give them as gifts; they’re always a hit!
- Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment by adding nuts or using different types of chocolate for unique variations.
Tools and Preparation
To create these Peanut Butter Blossoms, having the right tools will streamline your baking process. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess. Choose various sizes for versatility in your baking tasks.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugars together, ensuring a smooth dough.
- Baking sheets: Provide the foundation for baking your cookies evenly. Using multiple sheets can help you bake in batches.
Ingredients
Peanut Butter Blossoms are made with classic ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
For Topping:
- 24 milk chocolate Hershey’s Kisses (unwrapped)
How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy.
* Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
* Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing just until combined.
Step 4: Shape and Roll
Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls.
* Roll each ball in granulated sugar until coated.
* Place them on the prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Bake
Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and slightly puffed.
* Remove from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The cookie will crack slightly around the edges.
Step 6: Cool and Set
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps ensure that the chocolate sets perfectly without melting too much.
Enjoy your Peanut Butter Blossoms as festive treats that everyone will love!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
Peanut Butter Blossoms are delightful treats that can be served in various ways. Their sweet and salty flavor makes them versatile for different occasions, whether it’s a festive gathering or an everyday snack.
With Milk
- A tall glass of cold milk pairs perfectly with these cookies, balancing the rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange these cookies on a dessert platter with other holiday treats for a festive presentation that’s sure to impress guests.
Gift Boxes
- Package these cookies in decorative boxes as homemade gifts. They make wonderful presents for friends and family during the holiday season.
As a Snack
- Enjoy them as an afternoon snack for a quick energy boost. Their combination of protein and sweetness satisfies cravings perfectly.
At Cookie Exchanges
- Bring these cookies to cookie exchanges. They are always a hit and will stand out among traditional offerings.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
To ensure your Peanut Butter Blossoms turn out perfect every time, follow these handy tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- Chill the Dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can enhance flavor and prevent spreading while baking.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time to avoid overbaking—cookies should be lightly golden on edges but soft in the center.
- Press Kisses Gently: When adding the Hershey’s Kisses, press them gently into the center of each cookie right after they come out of the oven for best results.
- Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
Peanut Butter Blossoms are delicious on their own, but pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some perfect accompaniments.
- Fruit Salad
A refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of peanut butter with vibrant flavors from fresh fruits like berries, melons, or citrus. - Coffee or Tea
A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the sweet and salty notes of the cookies, providing a cozy treat option any time of day. - Ice Cream
Pairing these cookies with vanilla or chocolate ice cream creates an indulgent dessert experience that’s hard to resist. - Chocolate Fondue
Serve cookies alongside a chocolate fondue station where guests can dip pieces into melted chocolate for added decadence. - Nut Mix
A savory nut mix provides a crunchy contrast to the soft cookies, enhancing both texture and flavor profiles during snacking. - Cheese Platter
Offer a selection of mild cheeses alongside the cookies for an unexpected sweet-and-savory pairing that delights the palate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Peanut Butter Blossoms can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch for.
- Using Cold Butter: Cold butter can lead to dense cookies. Make sure your butter is softened at room temperature before mixing.
- Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined for a soft texture.
- Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make cookies dry. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method for accurate measurements.
- Skipping the Cooling Time: Rushing to move cookies while hot can cause them to break. Allowing them to cool helps maintain their shape.
- Neglecting Sugar Coating: Skipping the sugar coating may result in less sweet cookies. Roll each dough ball generously in sugar before baking for that perfect sweetness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Keep layers of cookies separated with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
- Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Place parchment paper between layers of cookies for easy separation.
Reheating Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual cookies on a microwave-safe plate for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: For a quick warm-up, place cookies in a skillet over low heat for 1-2 minutes, covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Peanut Butter Blossoms recipe.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
You can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer added texture. Just keep in mind it may alter the cookie’s overall softness slightly.
How do I make gluten-free Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend for delicious gluten-free cookies without compromising taste.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to keep them fresh longer.
How can I customize my Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even drizzle melted chocolate on top after baking for extra flavor!
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Blossoms are not just classic special occasion cookies; they’re versatile treats that everyone will love! Their sweet and salty twist makes them perfect for any occasion. Customize them with your favorite toppings or fillings, and enjoy these delightful bites throughout the holiday season!
Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
Indulge in the delightful experience of baking Peanut Butter Blossoms, a timeless treat that perfectly blends creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate for a sweet and salty sensation. These classic cookies are simple to make and ideal for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to everyday snacks. With their soft texture and mouthwatering flavor, they are sure to be a hit among family and friends. The best part? You can customize them with various toppings to suit your taste. Whether you’re participating in a cookie exchange or preparing homemade gifts, these cookies will impress everyone who tries them!
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 24 milk chocolate kisses (unwrapped)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract; mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually combine with the wet mixture until just mixed.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls, coat in granulated sugar, and place on prepared sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden. Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie upon removing from the oven.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approx. 20g)
- Calories: 95
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <2g
- Cholesterol: <5mg
Keywords: For added texture, consider using crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy. Chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking to enhance flavor and prevent spreading. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.