Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something truly special about Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms. These little gems are a staple in many households, and for good reason. The rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter combined with the sweet, creamy touch of a Hershey’s Kiss creates a delightful cookie experience that warms the heart. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, school bake sales, or just a cozy family night, these cookies never fail to bring smiles and joy.

Picture this: a crisp afternoon, the scent of warm peanut butter wafting through the kitchen, and laughter echoing as the little ones help roll the dough into balls. It’s moments like these that make baking memories to cherish. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these cookies that will have everyone coming back for seconds—and thirds!

In this recipe, we’ll share every little detail, so you can create your own peanut butter magic at home. Trust me, your family will thank you for it!

how to make Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms

Making these delightful cookies is a breeze! Follow along, and let’s create some sweet memories together.

Ingredients

– 1 3/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
– 1 tsp Baking Soda
– 1/2 tsp Salt
– 1/2 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
– 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
– 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar
– 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar (lightly packed)
– 1 Large Egg
– 2 tbsp Milk
– 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
– 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (additional amount for coating cookies)
– 11 oz Bag of Hershey Kisses

Directions

Let’s get those cookies in the oven! Start by setting up your workstation. You’ll need a medium bowl, a mixing bowl, and some parchment paper for later on. First, in that medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This sets a nice base for your cookie dough. Now, set it aside for a moment while we focus on the good stuff!

Next, grab your mixer. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream together the peanut butter, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar on medium-high speed. You want to mix this until it’s smooth and creamy—about two to three minutes will do the trick. Feel free to take a little taste; it’s okay to indulge just a bit!

Now, let’s add the wet ingredients. Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the peanut butter mixture. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl as you mix, ensuring everything is evenly combined. It should look rich and creamy now.

Now it’s time to add the dry mix you set aside earlier. Reduce the mixer speed, and gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is well blended. The dough might feel a tad sticky, which is perfectly normal! Cover the bowl with plastic wrap, or place the dough in a well-sealed food container. Chill it in the fridge for at least an hour. This step helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

While your dough is chilling, you can get ready for baking. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. Adjust your oven rack to the second level mark, just above the center, and preheat your oven to 375°F. It’s almost time to dive into the fun part!

After an hour, take the dough out of the refrigerator. Using a spoon and your clean hands, shape the cookie dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the additional 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, ensuring they have a lovely sweet coating.

Place the balls about 1.5 to 2 inches apart on the lined baking sheets. Bake for 7-8 minutes, then remove them from the oven. This is the exciting moment! Gently press a milk chocolate kiss onto the top of each cookie. You want to create a lovely little impression without squashing it completely. Return the cookies to the oven and bake for 2 more minutes. The edges should be crackly and inviting.

Once they’re done, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5-10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely. If you can resist the temptation to sneak one early, well, more power to you! Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them fresh for up to a week. Yum!

how to serve Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms

Serving your freshly baked Peanut Butter Blossoms can be as creative as you wish! You can present these cookies on a beautiful platter, maybe garnished with some fresh fruit or nuts for a colorful touch. If you’re having a cozy brunch with friends, why not add them to the table as part of a sweet spread? They pair perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or tea.

Another delightful way to serve is to create cookie gift bags. Wrap up a few cookies in clear bags tied with a festive ribbon. They make wonderful little surprises for neighbors or friends dropping by. Trust me, everyone loves receiving homemade treats! Plus, they’re fantastic for bake sales or school functions—who can resist that chocolatey peanut butter goodness?

how to store Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms

Storing these cookies is easy-peasy! As mentioned earlier, place them in an airtight container with a slice of bread. This little trick helps to keep them soft and chewy. Keep the container in a cool and dry place. Just be warned—once your family discovers where they are stored, they might not last long!

If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just ensure they cool completely, then place them in a freezer bag. Remember to squeeze out as much air as possible. They can last in the freezer for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply take them out and let them thaw at room temperature or heat them up in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-baked feel.

tips to make Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms

Don’t Skip Chilling! Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading while baking, keeping your cookies thick and soft. Patience pays off in sweetness.
Choose the Right Chocolate: While Hershey’s Kisses are traditional, feel free to experiment! Try using dark chocolate or caramel-filled kisses for a fun twist. It can be a delightful surprise with every bite.
Make it a Family Affair: Get the kids involved! They can help measure ingredients, roll the dough into balls, and, of course, press the chocolate kisses into the warm cookies. It’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories and teach them about baking.

variation (if any)

Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize your Peanut Butter Blossoms. Consider adding chocolate chips to the dough for extra chocolaty goodness or swapping out the peanut butter for almond butter for a nutty twist. You can even mix in chopped nuts or toffee bits for added texture. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can warm up the flavor profile beautifully.

Pro Tips for Success

Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room-temperature butter and eggs. This allows for better incorporation, leading to a fluffier cookie. Set them out about 30 minutes before you start baking.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking. They should look just set in the middle. Remember, they will continue to cook a bit as they cool, achieving that perfect soft center.
Experiment with Toppings: After placing the Hershey Kiss on top, consider drizzling melted chocolate or caramel over the cookies when they cool for an elegant touch. It adds an extra layer of flavor that everyone will adore.

Serving Ideas

Cookie Sandwiches: For a little twist, make cookie sandwiches! Spread a thin layer of peanut butter or chocolate frosting between two cookies—deliciously indulgent!
Ice Cream Treats: If you’re feeling particularly decadent, serve your cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The warm cookies paired with cold ice cream makes for a delightful dessert experience.
Party Favors: At your next gathering, create little gift boxes filled with Peanut Butter Blossoms. It’s a warm, homemade gift your friends will always remember.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Just roll it into balls right before baking.
What if I don’t have granulated sugar? You can use brown sugar solely or a combination of brown sugar and another sweetener if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember, it may change the cookie’s texture a bit.
How can I ensure even baking? To promote even baking, make sure your baking sheets are not overcrowded. Spacing out the cookies allows the heat to circulate freely.
Can I freeze these cookies? Yes! They freeze beautifully. Just ensure they are completely cooled and properly stored for the best taste when you’re ready to enjoy them later.

Quick Recap

Baking Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms is not just about making cookies; it’s about creating moments and memories in the kitchen. With their warm, nutty flavor and chocolatey goodness, they are sure to bring everyone together. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of fresh cookies. Bake this weekend, and you’ll be glad you did!