Peanut Butter Blossoms are the perfect marriage of salty and sweet, combining the creamy richness of peanut butter with a sugary coating and a luscious chocolate kiss center. Their inviting golden-brown edges and shiny chocolate tops make these cookies as beautiful as they are delicious.
This classic treat is simple enough for bakers of all levels, yet impressive enough to steal the show at any gathering. Whether for holiday parties, cookie exchanges, or everyday indulgence, these cookies bring warmth, nostalgia, and smiles with every bite. The contrast of textures—soft dough with the slight crunch of sugar and melting chocolate—makes them irresistible.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup packed brown sugar
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1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
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1/2 cup butter, softened
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1 large egg
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1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
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3/4 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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Additional granulated sugar for rolling
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About 48 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large bowl, cream together granulated sugar, brown sugar, peanut butter, butter, and egg until smooth and fluffy.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually add to the peanut butter mixture and stir until combined.
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Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar, then place on an ungreased baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned. Remove from oven and immediately press one Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
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Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 110 kcal per cookie | Servings: 48 cookies
Why Peanut Butter Blossoms Are So Popular
One key reason these cookies are so popular is their incredible ease of preparation. Unlike many baked goods that require elaborate techniques or long preparation times, Peanut Butter Blossoms are straightforward and accessible for even beginner bakers. The dough itself is soft and forgiving, which means it’s easy to work with, and the rolling in sugar before baking adds a delightful texture contrast that enhances the overall eating experience.
Moreover, the use of Hershey’s Kisses as a finishing touch is genius in its simplicity. It adds a burst of chocolate flavor and a polished look without any extra fuss. This makes Peanut Butter Blossoms perfect for last-minute baking or for occasions when you want to create something visually appealing without complicated decoration.
The Flavor Profile: Sweet, Salty, and Nutty Perfection
Flavor-wise, Peanut Butter Blossoms offer a delicious interplay of tastes. The peanut butter provides a salty, nutty base that pairs beautifully with the sweet, crunchy sugar coating. Once baked, the cookie’s edges become slightly crisp, while the interior remains tender and chewy. When you press the chocolate kiss into the warm cookie, it slightly melts, creating a luscious chocolate center that perfectly complements the peanut butter.
This classic flavor combination taps into a broader culinary love for peanut butter and chocolate pairings. It’s the same reason peanut butter cups and chocolate peanut butter sandwiches are so universally adored—there’s something about the balance of salty and sweet that feels comforting and indulgent all at once.
Versatility and Customization Options
Peanut Butter Blossoms are incredibly versatile. While the classic version features creamy peanut butter, you can experiment with different types of peanut butter, such as natural or chunky, to add a bit of texture variation. Some bakers also like to add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to the dough for a subtle flavor twist.
For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, these cookies can be adapted as well. Gluten-free flour blends can replace all-purpose flour to make the cookies safe for gluten-sensitive eaters. Vegan versions are also possible by substituting the egg with a flaxseed or chia egg and using dairy-free butter alternatives. Though the chocolate kisses are traditionally milk chocolate, there are dark chocolate and vegan-friendly options available to cater to different tastes.
When and How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms
These cookies shine most brightly during festive seasons like Christmas, but their appeal is year-round. They’re perfect for bake sales, school events, or just a cozy afternoon snack with a glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee. Their size and shape make them easy to package as gifts or party favors, and their classic appearance fits well into themed dessert tables or cookie platters.
Peanut Butter Blossoms also work well alongside other classic holiday cookies such as gingerbread, sugar cookies, and thumbprint cookies. Their unique combination of peanut butter and chocolate provides a nice contrast to spice-heavy or citrus-flavored cookies, making the overall dessert spread more interesting and diverse.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms
To ensure your Peanut Butter Blossoms turn out perfectly, there are a few tips that can help elevate your baking game. First, be sure your butter and peanut butter are softened but not melted; this helps achieve the right dough consistency for rolling into balls. Rolling the dough balls generously in granulated sugar before baking helps create that classic sparkly crust and a slight crunch on the outside.
When baking, watch closely for the cookies’ edges to turn lightly golden but avoid overbaking. The centers should remain soft to complement the slightly crisp exterior. Press the Hershey’s Kiss into each cookie immediately after removing it from the oven so the chocolate melts just enough to stick but doesn’t lose its shape entirely.
Peanut Butter Blossoms: Nostalgia Meets Timeless Treat
Peanut Butter Blossoms are more than just cookies—they’re a nostalgic bite of childhood, a tradition in many families, and a symbol of simple homemade goodness. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their timeless flavor and effortless charm. Whether shared with loved ones during the holidays or enjoyed as an everyday indulgence, these cookies bring a sense of comfort and happiness that few desserts can match.
Their ease of making also means that Peanut Butter Blossoms can be a fantastic way to get kids involved in baking, teaching them about mixing, rolling, and the magic of melting chocolate. Watching those little faces light up as they press the chocolate kisses into warm dough is part of what makes baking this recipe so rewarding.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Blossoms stand out as a classic cookie that combines the best of simplicity, flavor, and nostalgia. Their perfect blend of peanut butter’s savory richness with the sugary coating and a luscious chocolate center is a recipe that has won the hearts of many and continues to be a staple on cookie trays across the world.
These cookies are easy to make, adaptable for various dietary needs, and ideal for sharing at celebrations or enjoying as a comforting treat any day. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, Peanut Butter Blossoms offer a deliciously rewarding baking experience that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
So next time you’re craving a sweet, nutty delight, reach for the Peanut Butter Blossom recipe — it’s guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and bring smiles all around.