As the holiday season rolls in, the sweet scent of baking fills the air, reminding us that it’s the perfect time to pull out some cherished recipes. When my family gathers for Christmas, there’s always a special enthusiasm in the room when Classic Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies make their appearance. These delightful gems are a nostalgic favorite, combining soft, chewy cookie perfection with the delightful surprise of a warm chocolate kiss nestled right in the center.
They’re not just delicious; their simplicity makes them an ideal treat for baking with kids or sharing with loved ones during festive gatherings. The joy of rolling the dough in sugar, watching them puff up in the oven, and the moment the chocolate melts into a pool of sweetness is simply magical. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro looking to spread some holiday cheer, these cookies are sure to become a highlight of your Christmas celebrations. Let’s get started on creating this festive delight!
Why Love Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies?
Nostalgic Feelings: These peanut butter blossom cookies evoke sweet memories of holidays past, making them a must-bake this Christmas.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Involving kids in the process adds a fun activity, creating cherished family moments.
Incredibly Simple: With easy-to-follow steps, even beginner bakers can whip these up effortlessly.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Goodness: Each bite offers a soft cookie paired with a warm, gooey chocolate kiss, ensuring a delightful combination of flavors.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether at family gatherings or with neighbors, these cookies spread cheer and joy in every delicious bite!
Storage Made Easy: You can conveniently keep them for up to 4 days, or freeze leftovers for future enjoyment!
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
- All Purpose Flour – Provides structure; you can use a gluten-free flour blend for a GF option.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise slightly.
- Baking Soda – Aids in browning and spreading the cookies.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor while balancing the cookie’s sweetness.
- Butter (softened) – Adds richness and moisture; use margarine for a dairy-free substitute.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and contributes to the texture of the cookies.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and a deeper flavor; substitute with more granulated sugar in a pinch.
- Large Egg – Binds the ingredients and adds moisture; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan version.
- Smooth Peanut Butter – The main flavor that ensures a chewy texture; feel free to opt for crunchy peanut butter to add some texture.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cookies.
For the Coating and Topping
- Granulated/Sanding Sugar – Coating for dough balls to add sweetness and crunch.
- Hershey’s Kiss Chocolates – Iconic topping that provides a sweet chocolate burst; other chocolate candies can also be used as substitutes.
These peanut butter blossom cookies are not just ingredients; they are the beginnings of a festive tradition!
How to Make Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
Preheat Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s all warmed up and ready for baking these delightful treats.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. This blend creates a balanced base for your cookies.
Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until creamy and fluffy. Then, add in the egg, peanut butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix, which will keep your cookies soft and chewy.
Form Dough Balls: Scoop out portions of dough and roll them into balls. Then, roll each ball in granulated sugar to create a sweet, crunchy coating.
Bake: Place the sugar-coated dough balls on a baking sheet with space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, until they are lightly golden on the bottom.
Add Chocolate: While the cookies are still warm, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. This creates a delicious chocolate surprise as it melts into the cookie.
Cool Completely: Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This will help them set and intensify the flavors.
Optional: For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed candy canes on top before serving!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and then storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on busy baking days. If you’re feeling extra organized, you can also scoop and roll the dough balls, coat them in sugar, and refrigerate those for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven, place the dough on a baking sheet, and bake as instructed. With these make-ahead options, you’ll enjoy just as delicious cookies with minimal effort on the day of serving!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw cookies at room temperature. For a warm treat, microwave for a few seconds to melt the chocolate kisses again.
Dough Freezing: If you have extra dough, roll it into balls and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time for perfectly fresh peanut butter blossom cookies!
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on these delightful treats with a few exciting twists!
- Nut-Free Switch: Replace peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a delicious nut-free alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Crunchy Twist: Use crunchy peanut butter instead of smooth for added texture in every bite, giving your cookies an extra crunch.
- Chocolate Lovers Delight: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the dough for a double chocolate experience that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, inviting spiciness that complements the rich peanut butter beautifully.
- Chunky Addition: Fold in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch that elevates the cookie’s flavor profile. They add both taste and texture!
- Sweet Surprise: Instead of Hershey’s Kisses, use caramel-filled chocolates to create a gooey and indulgent center that will surprise and delight.
- Flavor Infusion: Swap vanilla extract for almond or hazelnut extract for a unique flavor twist that will take your cookies to new heights of deliciousness.
- Decadent Drizzle: After cooling, drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies for an elegant finish that adds both richness and an attractive touch!
These variations allow you to personalize your peanut butter blossom cookies and share them in a way that resonates with your unique holiday spirit!
Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
- Don’t Overmix: To keep your peanut butter blossom cookies soft and chewy, mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
- Chocolate Kiss Placement: Gently press the chocolate kisses into the center of warm cookies to avoid them melting too much. This ensures a beautiful presentation and a delightful burst of chocolate.
- Peanut Butter Choice: Opt for smooth peanut butter for consistent texture. Natural peanut butter may yield crumblier cookies, so choose wisely for desired results.
- Dough Freezing: You can freeze your dough for up to 2 months. Roll into balls, freeze, then bake directly from frozen for a quick treat anytime!
- Storage Tips: Keep baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days, or freeze for longer-lasting enjoyment.
What to Serve with Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies?
Baking cookies fills the air with warmth and sweetness, making it a delightful time for pairing up scrumptious sides.
Cold Glass of Milk:
Nothing beats the classic combination of cookies and milk. It perfectly complements the rich peanut butter flavor while balancing the sweetness.Festive Hot Chocolate:
A cup of creamy hot cocoa adds a cozy touch. The chocolatey richness enhances each bite of the warm, gooey chocolate kiss atop the cookies.Vanilla Ice Cream:
Serve your cookies à la mode for a delightful treat! The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, soft cookies.Nutty Snack Mix:
A crunchy mix of nuts, pretzels, and dried fruits adds texture. This savory contrast makes each bite of sweet cookie even more enjoyable!Fresh Fruit Platter:
Bright slices of apple or berries provide a fresh note. Their juiciness balances the richness of the cookies, making for a light and flavorful pairing.Holiday Fruit Punch:
A festive fruit punch infused with citrus keeps the party spirit alive. Its refreshing taste cuts through the sweetness while adding a splash of color to your dessert table.Chocolate-Covered Strawberries:
These elegant treats are a delicious treat alongside cookies. Their burst of flavor adds a gourmet touch to your holiday dessert spread.Creamy Cheesecake:
A slice of cheesecake on the side creates a decadent pairing. The smooth, rich texture complements the chewy cookies beautifully, ensuring a treat for all dessert lovers!
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of peanut butter should I use for Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies?
I recommend using smooth peanut butter for the best texture and consistency in these cookies. If you prefer a bit more crunch, feel free to use crunchy peanut butter. Just keep in mind that natural peanut butter may lead to crumblier cookies, so it’s best to stick with a conventional brand.
How should I store my Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies?
Store your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. This will help maintain their delightful chewiness. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze the dough for Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Simply roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to bake, you can pop them in the oven directly from frozen—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time for perfect results!
Why did my cookies turn out flat?
Flat cookies can occur for a few reasons, often related to ingredient measurements or temperature. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted, as overly warm butter can lead to spreading. Additionally, make sure to measure your flour correctly—too little flour can also cause flattening. Always check for the freshness of your baking soda and powder, too!
Can I use a different chocolate for the topping?
Yes! While Hershey’s Kisses are the classic choice, you can substitute them with any chocolate candy you prefer, such as chocolate chips, caramel-filled chocolates, or even festive seasonal candies. Just remember—if you choose a larger chocolate, adjust the baking time slightly to ensure the cookies bake fully without burning.
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies that Melt Hearts this Christmas
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt.
- In another bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until creamy. Add in the egg, peanut butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Scoop and roll portions of dough into balls, then coat each in granulated sugar.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gently press a Hershey's Kiss into the center of each warm cookie.
- Let cool on a wire rack to set.