Oh my goodness, let me tell you about peanut butter blossoms! These delightful little cookies have been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I’d watch my mom whip up a batch every holiday season, the sweet and nutty aroma filling our home. There’s just something magical about that soft peanut butter base topped with a gooey chocolate kiss—it’s like a warm hug in cookie form! Whenever I take a bite, I’m instantly transported back to those cozy afternoons spent baking with her. They’re not just cookies; they’re a delicious piece of my childhood! No wonder peanut butter blossoms hold such a cherished spot in American baking culture; they’re simply irresistible and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll understand why they’re a classic!
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Blossoms
Let’s gather everything we need to create these amazing cookies! Here’s a list of ingredients that’ll take you straight to peanut butter bliss:
- 1 cup peanut butter: Use creamy or crunchy, depending on your preference—both work beautifully!
- 1 cup sugar: Just regular granulated sugar for that perfect sweetness.
- 1 cup brown sugar: This adds a lovely depth of flavor and moisture; I always go for light brown sugar, but dark works too!
- 2 large eggs: Bring them to room temperature for better mixing; trust me, it makes a difference!
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Make sure it’s spooned and leveled for accurate measuring.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: This is your leavening agent, giving the cookies a nice lift.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must for that warm, inviting flavor; I love using pure vanilla!
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to balance all the sweetness and enhance the flavors.
- 36 chocolate kisses: The star of the show! Choose your favorite—milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even caramel-filled for a fun twist!
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to embark on a cookie-making adventure! Let’s get to mixing!
How to Prepare Peanut Butter Blossoms
Alright, let’s dive into the steps to make these scrumptious peanut butter blossoms! Follow along, and soon you’ll have a batch that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance!
Preheat the Oven
First things first—preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because it ensures even baking. You want those cookies to rise perfectly and be soft and chewy!
Mixing the Ingredients
In a large bowl, start by mixing together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. I like to use a hand mixer for this—it makes everything smooth and creamy. Mix until you don’t see any lumps; it should be velvety and delicious!
Adding Dry Ingredients
Next, gently fold in the flour, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt. I usually add the flour in increments to avoid a flour explosion! Just mix until everything is combined—don’t overdo it; we want those cookies to stay tender!
Shaping the Cookies
Now it’s time to shape your cookies! Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave about 2 inches between each ball; they’ll spread a bit while baking!
Baking the Cookies
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are lightly golden but the centers still look a little soft—don’t worry, they’ll firm up as they cool!
Adding Chocolate Kisses
As soon as you take the cookies out of the oven, it’s time for the best part! While they’re still warm, gently press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. This step is what makes these cookies truly shine!
Cooling the Cookies
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set perfectly without falling apart. Once they’re on the rack, let them cool completely, if you can resist the temptation to dive in right away!
Tips for Success
Here are a few tried-and-true tips to ensure your peanut butter blossoms come out perfectly every time! First, make sure your peanut butter is at room temperature for easier mixing—this helps achieve that dreamy, smooth consistency. If you want cookies that hold their shape, consider chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it into balls; this step really helps with the spreading!
Also, keep an eye on your baking time—every oven is different, so it’s a good idea to check them a minute or two early. You want those edges just golden while the centers remain soft and chewy. And don’t forget to have fun with the chocolate kisses! Mixing in different varieties or even adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before they cool can elevate your cookies to a whole new level. Happy baking!
Variations of Peanut Butter Blossoms
If you’re feeling adventurous in the kitchen, there are so many fun ways to mix up these classic peanut butter blossoms! For a twist on the traditional, try swapping out the chocolate kisses for different types of chocolate. Dark chocolate kisses add a rich, intense flavor, while caramel-filled kisses bring a delightful surprise. You could even use white chocolate for a sweet contrast!
Feeling nutty? Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for extra crunch and flavor. Or, how about adding a sprinkle of your favorite spices, like cinnamon or even a hint of cayenne for a kick?
For a festive touch, roll the cookie balls in colored sugar before baking—perfect for holiday gatherings! Get creative and let your taste buds guide you; these variations are sure to impress your friends and family!
Nutritional Information
It’s always good to know what you’re indulging in, right? Just a heads up, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these figures are approximate. But here’s what you can expect for each peanut butter blossom cookie:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 3g
So, while you’re enjoying these delicious cookies, just keep in mind the tasty balance of flavors and nutrients that come with each bite! Happy baking and indulging!
FAQ Section
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Absolutely, you can use natural peanut butter! Just keep in mind that it tends to be a bit more runny than the conventional kind, which can affect the dough’s consistency. If you’re using natural peanut butter, I recommend stirring it well before measuring to make sure it’s mixed evenly. You might also want to add a little extra flour if the dough feels too sticky!
How should I store peanut butter blossoms?
To keep your peanut butter blossoms fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last about a week, but trust me, they probably won’t last that long because they’re just too good! If you’d like to keep them for longer, you can also refrigerate them, just let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, you can definitely freeze peanut butter blossoms! To do this, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour. Once they’re solid, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. No need to bake again; they’re just as tasty straight from the freezer!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all levels!
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and chocolate is simply irresistible—each bite is a little piece of heaven!
- Nostalgic Treat: These cookies bring back memories of cozy baking afternoons, making them a comforting choice for any occasion.
- Perfect for Sharing: Whether you’re at a party or just want to brighten someone’s day, these cookies are always a hit!
- Customizable: With endless variations, you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste or the seasons!
- Quick to Bake: From mixing to baking, you can whip up a batch in about 25 minutes—great for last-minute cravings!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to enjoying peanut butter blossoms, I love to pair them with a tall glass of cold milk—there’s just something magical about that classic combo! The creamy milk complements the rich peanut butter and chocolate perfectly, making each bite even more delicious. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. The warm cookies and cold ice cream create a heavenly contrast!
For those who prefer something a little different, a cup of hot coffee or a rich mocha can be a great match, balancing the sweetness of the cookies with a bit of robust flavor. And don’t forget, these cookies also make a fantastic treat for holiday gatherings or cozy movie nights. Just set out a plate of these beauties, and watch them disappear!
Print
Peanut Butter Blossoms: 7 Irresistible Cookie Secrets
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Peanut butter blossoms are classic cookies featuring a soft peanut butter base topped with a chocolate kiss.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 36 chocolate kisses
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix peanut butter, sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth.
- Stir in flour, baking soda, vanilla, and salt.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- Try using different types of chocolate for variety.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for a firmer texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: peanut butter blossoms, cookies, dessert, baking
