Table of Contents
Introduction about Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
If you’re searching for a treat that’s both nostalgic and oh-so-delicious, look no further! Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms are the perfect blend of rich peanut butter flavor and the sweet surprise of a chocolate kiss. Have you ever wondered why these cookies have such a special place in our hearts and on our dessert tables? It’s the combination of a crunchy exterior, a soft center, and an irresistible chocolate topping that makes them a favorite at parties, family dinners, and holiday celebrations.
Making Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms is not only easy but also quick, so you can whip up a batch and enjoy them in no time. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this recipe is a must-have in your kitchen arsenal. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying with a tall glass of milk!
Key Benefits of Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and milk chocolate creates a rich, mouthwatering experience.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, even novice bakers will find this recipe approachable.
- Quick Preparation: From mixing to baking, you can have these cookies out of the oven in under 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the fun of pressing the chocolate kisses into the cookies, making it a great family activity.
- Versatile: You can adapt the recipe for different occasions—perfect for holiday gatherings, bake sales, or cozy weekends at home.
- Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are common pantry staples, meaning you won’t need to break the bank to make these delightful treats.
What makes it stand out
Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms are not only beloved for their delicious taste, but they also have a unique presentation that brings a sense of joy and nostalgia. The chocolate kiss on top transforms a simple peanut butter cookie into an eye-catching treat.
You can customize these cookies for different seasons or celebrations. For instance, use colored candy melts instead of chocolate kisses for festive occasions, or add sprinkles for a birthday party twist!
Ingredients for Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
Complete ingredient list with measurements
To create these delightful cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- ½ tsp Salt
- ½ cup Creamy Peanut Butter
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
- ½ cup Granulated Sugar
- ½ cup Light Brown Sugar (lightly packed)
- 1 Large Egg
- 2 tbsp Milk
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- ½ cup Granulated Sugar (additional for coating cookies)
- 11 oz Bag of Hershey Kisses
Substitutes and alternatives
If you’re in need of substitutions, here are some common swaps:
- Peanut Butter: Swap with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a different flavor or to accommodate allergies.
- Butter: Coconut oil can replace unsalted butter for a dairy-free version, though it may alter the texture slightly.
- Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia for a lower-calorie option.
- Flour: Gluten-free all-purpose flour isn’t an issue; just replace it in equal measure.
How to Make Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms – Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1 – Prep your workspace and ingredients
Before you start baking, gather all your ingredients and tools. Preheat your oven to 375°F so it’s hot and ready for your cookies. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
Step 2 – Combine the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agent and salt in your cookies. Set this mixture aside for now.
Step 3 – Cream the butters and sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or a stand mixer with a paddle attachment to cream together the creamy peanut butter, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 4 – Add the wet ingredients
Next, add the large egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until fully combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl to incorporate any stubborn ingredients. You’ll achieve a smooth, rich batter.
Step 5 – Incorporate the dry ingredients
With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry mixture from Step 2 into the wet ingredients. Mix until everything is just incorporated. Don’t over-mix; it’s fine if there are a few small lumps.
Step 6 – Chill the dough
Transfer the cookie dough to a well-sealed food container or wrap the mixing bowl with plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This step firms up the dough, making it easier to shape later.
Step 7 – Shape the cookies
After chilling the dough, remove it from the fridge. Using your hands and a spoon, scoop out about 1-inch portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in the additional granulated sugar, ensuring they’re coated evenly.
Step 8 – Bake the cookies
Place the sugar-coated cookie dough balls about 1½ to 2 inches apart on the lined baking sheets. Bake in your preheated oven for 7 to 8 minutes. The cookies should look slightly underdone, which keeps them soft.
Step 9 – Add the chocolate kisses
Once removed from the oven, quickly press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Press down gently to create that signature crackled edge.
Step 10 – Cool and store
Return the baking sheets to the oven and bake for another 2 minutes. Once done, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5–10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Store your Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container with a slice of bread for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions for Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
Best occasions to serve this dish
Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms are a hit for all occasions! Here are some ideas when you might want to serve them:
- Everyday Treats: Perfect for an after-school snack or an evening dessert.
- Family Gatherings: Great for family dinners or game nights where everyone gathers around.
- Holidays: A must-have for Christmas cookie platters or potluck gatherings.
- Celebrations: Ideal for birthdays, bridal showers, or baby showers.
What to serve with it
These cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of drinks and treats:
- Beverages: A tall glass of cold milk or a rich cup of coffee complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Sides: Serve alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a more indulgent dessert experience.
- Toppings: Drizzle with melted chocolate or peanut butter for extra richness.
Storing Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms Properly
Best storage practices
To keep your Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for about 5–7 days.
- Refrigerator: You can refrigerate them, but it’s best to cover them properly to avoid them drying out.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months.
Reheating and freezing tips
If you want to enjoy warm cookies later:
- Reheating: Place cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm them up a bit.
- Freezing Dough: You can also freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just roll it into balls and freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Tips & Tricks for Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
Mistakes to avoid
- Overmixing: This can lead to tough cookies; mix until just combined.
- Not Chilling the Dough: Chilling is crucial for preventing spreading, so don’t skip this step.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven. An oven thermometer is a great tool to ensure accuracy.
Extra tips for better results
- Texture Boost: For a richer taste, use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- Nutty Addition: Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for extra texture.
- Experiment: Try adding cinnamon or a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavor profile.
Recipe Variations of Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
Creative twists
- Seasonal Flavors: Try adding pumpkin spice in the fall or peppermint extract during the winter holidays.
- Nut Butter Variations: Experiment with different nut butters like almond or cashew for a unique twist.
- Decorative Toppings: Add colorful sprinkles or drizzle with white chocolate for festive presentations.
Dietary adjustments
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free flour to make these cookies safe for gluten-free diets.
- Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate for a vegan option.
- Sugar-Free: Use sugar substitutes that interchange 1:1 with sugar for a no-sugar version.
Conclusion about Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms are a delightful blend of flavors and textures that anyone can enjoy. Easy to make and quick to bake, these cookies bring joy to any occasion. With their appealing appearance and delicious taste, they’re bound to be a hit at your next gathering.
Experiment with the recipe, share your results, and spread the love of these irresistible cookies with friends and family. Don’t forget to try this recipe for yourself; you won’t be disappointed!
FAQs about Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
What if it doesn’t turn out right?
If your cookies spread too much or are too dry, ensure your measurements were precise, and check your oven temperature. Always chill the dough to avoid spreading.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the dough a day in advance and chill it, or freeze the already-formed dough balls for future baking.
What are the best ingredient substitutions?
Common substitutions include almond butter for peanut butter or using coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar. Refer to the detailed alternatives mentioned earlier.
How long can it be stored?
These cookies can last at room temperature for 5–7 days or up to three months in the freezer.
Can I use store-bought dough or crust?
While homemade provides the best flavor, using store-bought dough can save time. Just make sure it’s peanut butter-flavored for a similar taste.
Is this recipe kid-friendly or family-appropriate?
Yes! This recipe is perfect for kids. The process of rolling the dough and pressing the kisses in is fun for the whole family.
Can I make this recipe allergen-free?
Yes! By substituting peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and ensuring all other ingredients are allergen-free, you can make a delicious variant for those with allergies.
Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 tsp Baking Soda
- ½ tsp Salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup Creamy Peanut Butter
- ½ cup Unsalted Butter (room temperature)
- ½ cup Granulated Sugar
- ½ cup Light Brown Sugar (lightly packed)
- 1 large Egg
- 2 tbsp Milk
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Coating and Topping
- ½ cup Granulated Sugar (additional for coating cookies)
- 11 oz Bag of Hershey Kisses
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients and tools. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line the baking sheets with parchment paper.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Creaming Mixture
- In a large bowl, cream together peanut butter, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Combining Wet Ingredients
- Add egg, milk, and vanilla to the creamed mixture. Beat until well combined.
Combining Ingredients
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Chilling Dough
- Chill the dough in a sealed container or covered bowl in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
Forming Cookies
- Scoop out 1-inch portions of dough, roll into balls, and coat each ball in granulated sugar.
Baking Cookies
- Place dough balls on baking sheets 1½ to 2 inches apart. Bake for 7 to 8 minutes until slightly underdone.
Adding Topping
- Press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie immediately after removing from the oven.
Cooling and Storing
- Bake for another 2 minutes. Cool on the baking sheet for 5–10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.