Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist are the ultimate holiday treat! These delightful cookies combine the rich flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for cookie exchanges, dessert platters, or leaving a special treat out for Santa, these classic special occasion cookies are sure to impress. Their irresistible blend of sweet and salty flavors makes them a favorite among all.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be whipped up in no time.
- Delicious Flavor Combination: The pairing of creamy peanut butter and chocolate offers a delightful sweet and salty twist that everyone loves.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for holiday gatherings or everyday snacks, these cookies fit right in.
- Kid-Friendly Activity: Making these cookies can be a fun family activity that kids will enjoy!
- Versatile Treats: Enjoy them plain or dress them up with sprinkles or different chocolate varieties.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Peanut Butter Blossoms, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help you achieve the best results while keeping the process enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Electric mixer
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
- Baking sheets: Provide a sturdy surface for baking your cookies evenly.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together.
- Wire rack: Allows proper cooling of cookies, ensuring they maintain their texture.
Ingredients
To make these delightful Peanut Butter Blossoms, gather the following ingredients:
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 the 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 in the egg and vanilla extract. Mix until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl:
* Whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
* Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 4: Shape and Roll
Scoop out small portions of dough:
* Roll each portion into 1-inch balls.
* Roll each ball in granulated sugar until well-coated.
* Place them on your prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
Step 5: Bake
Bake your cookies in the preheated oven:
* For about 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden and cookies are slightly puffed.
* Remove from oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The edges may crack slightly; this is normal!
Step 6: Cool and Set
Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes:
* Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
This helps ensure that the chocolate sets nicely without melting excessively.
Enjoy your delicious Peanut Butter Blossoms at any festive gathering!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
Peanut Butter Blossoms are delightful cookies that can elevate any holiday gathering. Their sweet and salty flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments, making them perfect for sharing.
Cookie Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a festive platter surrounded by seasonal decorations. This creates an inviting centerpiece for gatherings.
Milk or Non-Dairy Alternatives
- Serve these cookies with a cold glass of milk or your favorite non-dairy alternative like almond milk or oat milk for a comforting treat.
Hot Cocoa
- Pair the cookies with a warm cup of hot cocoa. The rich chocolate flavor will enhance the sweetness of peanut butter blossoms.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to create ice cream sandwiches. Choose vanilla or chocolate ice cream for a delicious twist.
Holiday Gift Boxes
- Package the cookies in decorative gift boxes to share with friends and family. This makes for a thoughtful homemade gift during the holiday season.
How to Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
To achieve the best results with your Peanut Butter Blossoms, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your baking experience.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps them combine more easily, creating a smoother dough.
- Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour. Avoid packing it down in the cup to prevent dense cookies.
- Don’t Overmix Dough: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Chill Dough (Optional): If time allows, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain shape and enhances flavor.
- Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Ovens vary, so start checking around 10 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Store Properly: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh and chewy.
Best Side Dishes for Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
When enjoying Peanut Butter Blossoms, consider pairing them with these delightful side dishes that complement their flavors perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balance to sweet cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast to sweet flavors.
- Nut Mix: A blend of roasted nuts offers crunch and saltiness that pairs well with peanut butter.
- Chocolate Fondue: Dip cookie halves into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat that’s easy to prepare.
- Spiced Hot Cider: Warm spiced cider enhances the festive spirit and complements the sweet notes of the cookies.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over cookie halves for an extra layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with peanut butter flavors.
- Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a light dessert option alongside these rich cookies.
- Coffee or Tea: Serve with your favorite brew to balance sweetness and heighten enjoyment during cozy moments.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Peanut Butter Blossoms, a few common mistakes can affect your cookie results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.
- Using Cold Ingredients – Ensure your butter is softened before mixing. Cold butter won’t cream well and will result in denser cookies.
- Overmixing the Dough – Mix just until combined after adding dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft texture you want.
- Incorrect Baking Time – Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Removing them too early or too late can change their texture dramatically.
- Not Cooling Before Adding Kisses – Allow the cookies to cool slightly before pressing in the Hershey’s Kisses. This prevents the chocolate from melting too much and losing shape.
- Skipping Sugar Coating – Rolling the dough balls in sugar not only adds sweetness but also creates a lovely crispy outer layer. Don’t skip this step!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Cookies can last up to 1 week in the fridge.
Freezing Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet first.
- Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
- Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
- Microwave – Place on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop – Heat over low heat in a skillet for about 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free without compromising taste.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes! Crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and flavor, making your cookies even more delightful.
What can I use instead of Hershey’s Kisses?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try using chocolate chips or other chocolate candies that suit your preference.
How should I store leftover Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it until you’re ready to bake. Just thaw before baking.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Blossoms are an irresistible treat that combines sweet and salty flavors perfectly. They’re versatile — perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, or simply enjoying at home. Feel free to customize them by adding different chocolates or toppings for a unique twist! Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe – Classic special occasion Cookies with a Perfect Sweet & Salty Twist
Peanut Butter Blossoms are classic holiday cookies that perfectly blend the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate. These delightful treats are not only easy to make but also a joy to share during festive gatherings or cookie exchanges. With their signature chocolate kiss topping, these cookies are sure to impress family and friends. Get ready to indulge in a sweet and salty experience that captures the essence of the holiday season!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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 chocolate candies (unwrapped)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Scoop out small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing on baking sheets about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are golden and puffy. Immediately press a chocolate candy into the center of each cookie after removing from the oven.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (20g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <2g
- Cholesterol: <5mg


