If you are searching for a delightful, nostalgic treat that marries the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweet, creamy touch of chocolate, then the Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe is your perfect find. This classic cookie combines a tender, sugar-crusted peanut butter base with a signature Hershey’s Kiss nestled right in the center, creating a little blossom of flavor that’s as pretty as it is delicious. With a quick 30-minute prep time and simple ingredients, these cookies are a go-to favorite for celebrations or everyday indulgence that deliver smiles with every bite.

Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering ingredients for the Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe is straightforward and rewarding, each component playing a crucial role in crafting the cookie’s perfect balance of taste, texture, and charm. Let’s take a look at the essentials that make this recipe come together seamlessly.

All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups): The backbone that provides structure for a tender cookie with a delightful crumb.
Granulated sugar (½ cup plus extra for rolling): Adds sweetness and a slight crunch on the cookie’s surface when rolled.
Light brown sugar (½ cup, packed): Brings moisture and a subtle caramel hint to deepen the flavor.
Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Essential for richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Creamy peanut butter (½ cup): The star of the show, delivering that distinct nutty taste and creamy consistency.
Large egg (1): Helps bind the ingredients and adds lightness to the dough.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Enhances the overall flavor profile with warm, sweet notes.
Baking soda (1 tsp): A leavening agent that gives the cookies a gentle rise and tender crumb.
Salt (¼ tsp): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the peanut butter’s flavor.
Milk chocolate Hershey’s Kisses (24, unwrapped): The iconic, glossy chocolate jewel that tops each cookie, melting slightly to create a luscious blossom effect.

How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preparing your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats not only prevents sticking but also ensures even baking, so your cookies come out perfect every time.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and inviting. This step is crucial because it incorporates air, resulting in softer cookies. Add the egg and vanilla extract afterward, mixing thoroughly to create a smooth, uniform dough.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined to keep the dough tender and avoid overmixing which could toughen the cookies.

Step 4: Shape and Roll

Scoop small portions of dough and roll them into about 1-inch balls. Then, roll each ball in extra granulated sugar to give the cookies a sparkling, slightly crunchy exterior. Space them roughly 2 inches apart on the baking sheet to allow for proper spreading during baking.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your cookies for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn a gentle golden color and the cookies look lightly puffed. Once out of the oven, immediately press an unwrapped Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie, gently but firmly. The cookie will crack slightly around the edges, which is exactly the signature look you want for these charming treats.

Step 6: Cool and Set

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes to let the chocolate soften and stick without melting away. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the Kiss sets beautifully, giving you that iconic peanut butter blossom look that everyone loves.

How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe

Garnishes

While the classic Hershey’s Kiss is the star garnish, you can add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top right after baking to enhance the peanut butter’s richness. For festive occasions, try a dusting of powdered sugar or even a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for extra decadence.

Side Dishes

Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate classic combo that everyone adores. For a grown-up twist, serve alongside a cup of strong coffee or hot cocoa. These cookies also complement fruit salads or simple vanilla ice cream, adding a sweet and nutty crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your Peanut Butter Blossoms on a colorful platter with fresh flowers or seasonal decorations to brighten up any gathering. For gifting, pack them in pretty tins or clear cellophane bags tied with festive ribbons. Another fun idea is creating cookie towers or sandwiching a scoop of ice cream between two blossoms for a sensational dessert treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This helps maintain their softness while keeping the chocolate kisses nicely set without melting.

Freezing

These cookies freeze beautifully! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. When properly stored, they will stay fresh for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

If you want to enjoy the cookies warm, simply microwave them for 10-15 seconds. This briefly softens the cookie and beautifully melts the chocolate kiss just enough to bring back that fresh-baked feeling without making them too soft.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add a delightful texture with little peanut bits in the cookie, giving a nice twist to the traditional creamy version of the Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe.

What if I’m allergic to peanuts?

For those with peanut allergies, you can substitute with sunflower seed butter or almond butter, though this will change the flavor profile slightly. Always double-check the labels of your chocolate kisses to ensure they are nut-free or safe for your dietary needs.

Why do the cookies crack around the edges?

The cracking happens naturally when the cookie dough bakes and spreads, creating that charming, rustic look. Pressing the Hershey’s Kiss into the warm cookie just after baking further encourages this cracking and makes the blossom appearance classic.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures like traditional flour. This adjustment keeps the same texture and taste with no compromise, perfect for those avoiding gluten.

How do I prevent the chocolate kisses from melting too much?

Press the Hershey’s Kiss into the cookie immediately after baking and give the cookies a few minutes to cool on the baking sheet before moving them. This allows the chocolate to soften and slightly melt but not lose its iconic shape.

Final Thoughts

There is something incredibly special about the Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe that brings comfort and joy every time you bake it. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, a casual snack, or to share a bit of sweetness with loved ones, these cookies offer a perfect blend of textures and flavors that never fail to delight. Trust me, once you try these irresistible peanut butter and chocolate gems, they’ll quickly become one of your all-time favorite recipes too!

Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe