Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe

If you’re a fan of sweet, soft cookies topped with a delightful chocolate kiss, then you're in for a treat! The classic peanut butter blossoms recipe is a favorite among cookie lovers, combining the rich flavors of peanut butter with the sweet goodness of Hershey's Kisses. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the perfect peanut butter blossoms, from the ingredients to step-by-step instructions, plus some helpful tips and common mistakes to avoid. So, grab your apron and read on to bake the perfect batch of these iconic cookies!

What Are Peanut Butter Blossoms?

Peanut butter blossoms are classic American cookies made with a soft, chewy peanut butter base, topped with a Hershey’s Kiss placed right in the center. The contrast between the warm, slightly salty peanut butter cookie and the sweet, creamy chocolate makes this dessert irresistible. These cookies are often associated with the holidays, but they are perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients List for Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms

To make the perfect peanut butter blossoms, you'll need just a few pantry staples. Here's a list of everything you'll need:

• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• ½ cup creamy peanut butter (use a smooth variety for best results)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (for the dough)
• ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Additional granulated sugar (for rolling the dough)
• Hershey’s Kisses (approximately 30)

Substitutions and Variations

While the classic recipe is loved by many, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to try something new, here are some substitutions and variations to consider:

• Peanut Butter Alternatives: If you have a peanut allergy or simply want to switch it up, you can use almond butter or sunflower seed butter in place of peanut butter. Keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious!
• Chocolate Choices: While Hershey’s Kisses are traditional, feel free to try other types of chocolate. Mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, dark chocolate squares, or even a chunk of milk chocolate can be used as the centerpiece.
• Gluten-Free Version: To make gluten-free peanut butter blossoms, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend.
• Vegan Version: For a vegan twist, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) instead of a regular egg, and opt for dairy-free chocolate.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the baking process. Follow these detailed instructions to make the perfect batch of peanut butter blossoms.

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the egg and vanilla: Once the butter and sugar mixture is fluffy, add the egg and vanilla extract. Continue beating until everything is well combined.
4. Mix in the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until a dough forms.
5. Form the dough balls: Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball using your hands. Roll each ball in the extra granulated sugar until it’s completely coated, and then place them on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are slightly golden but still soft.
7. Add the Hershey’s Kiss: As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The cookie will crack slightly, which is exactly what you want for that signature look.
8. Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Cook Peanut Butter Blossoms: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking peanut butter blossoms might seem simple, but there are a few tips and tricks to ensure they come out perfectly every time. Here’s a more detailed look at the baking process to guarantee success:

1. Soft Butter Is Key: For best results, make sure your butter is softened before mixing. This helps ensure that the dough has the right consistency and that the cookies come out soft and chewy. If you forget to take the butter out of the fridge in time, you can soften it quickly by cutting it into smaller pieces and letting it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes.
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, and no one wants that! Mix just until the flour is incorporated.
3. Perfect Timing: The cookies will look slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven, but don’t worry—this is exactly what you want. The cookies will continue to cook as they cool, leaving you with a perfectly soft texture.
4. Pressing in the Chocolate: The Hershey’s Kiss should be added immediately after the cookies come out of the oven. This way, the chocolate melts slightly into the cookie without losing its shape.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe like peanut butter blossoms, it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overbaking: One of the most common mistakes is leaving the cookies in the oven for too long. They should still be soft when you remove them from the oven because they’ll continue to cook as they cool.
• Skipping the Sugar Coating: Rolling the dough balls in granulated sugar gives the cookies a delightful crispy texture on the outside. Don’t skip this step!
• Using Cold Butter: If the butter is too cold, it won’t cream properly with the sugar, resulting in dense cookies. Always make sure your butter is softened to room temperature.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is everything when it comes to holiday cookies, especially peanut butter blossoms. Not only do they taste amazing, but they also look festive and fun. Here are some ways to serve and present your cookies beautifully:

1. Serve Warm: Peanut butter blossoms taste best when they’re slightly warm, with the chocolate kiss still soft in the center.
2. Holiday Platters: Arrange the cookies on a festive holiday platter, especially if you’re serving them at a Christmas party. You can even dust them lightly with powdered sugar for an extra snowy touch.
3. Gift Boxes: If you’re giving these cookies as gifts, place them in decorative tins or boxes lined with parchment paper. Add a festive ribbon for a personal touch.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms

Peanut butter blossoms are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Pair them with a glass of cold milk for a nostalgic treat, or serve them alongside coffee or tea at a holiday gathering. You can also add them to a dessert table with other cookies and sweets to create a delightful variety for guests to enjoy.

Presentation Ideas for Peanut Butter Blossoms

To elevate the presentation of your peanut butter blossoms, consider arranging them on a tiered dessert stand or placing them in individual treat bags tied with a festive ribbon. You can also get creative with toppings by drizzling the cookies with melted white or dark chocolate for a more gourmet look.

Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe Tips

• Use High-Quality Peanut Butter: The flavor of the peanut butter is crucial in this recipe, so opt for a good quality, creamy peanut butter for the best results.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking.
• Freezing: Peanut butter blossoms freeze well! Once baked, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, you can use chunky peanut butter if you prefer a bit of texture in your cookies. However, the cookies may not be as smooth as the traditional version.

Why do my cookies flatten out too much?

If your cookies are spreading too much, it could be because the dough was too warm when you baked them. Try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.

Can I use other types of candy instead of Hershey's Kisses?

Absolutely! While Hershey's Kisses are traditional, you can experiment with other chocolate candies, like Reese's or Rolos, for a fun twist.

Conclusion

Peanut butter blossoms are a classic cookie that combines the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with the sweet indulgence of chocolate. With just a few simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow recipe, you can bake a batch of these delightful cookies in no time. Whether you're making them for a holiday celebration or as a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to bring joy to anyone who takes a bite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps outlined in this guide, and enjoy baking (and eating!) these delicious peanut butter blossoms!

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