There's something magically nostalgic about that first bite of a peanut butter cookie crowned with a shiny chocolate kiss. This Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe never fails to bring back warm memories and smiles, making it a must-bake for holidays, gatherings, or just whenever you want a comforting, delicious treat.
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Why You'll Love This Recipe
Honestly, these cookies are like a warm hug from your oven. What makes this Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe special is how simple ingredients come together to create a perfect peanut butter cookie with that iconic chocolate kiss finish. I still remember baking a huge batch with my sister and how they disappeared within hours!
- Perfect Texture: The cookies are soft in the center with a slightly crisp edge, balancing peanut butter richness with sweet crunch.
- Iconic Chocolate Kiss: That melty chocolate center adds a delightful surprise and elevates these beyond just any peanut butter cookie.
- Quick and Easy: You only need one bowl and a handful of pantry staples to whip them up in under 30 minutes.
- Great for Gifting: They look adorable in a tin or bag, making them your go-to cookie for holidays and celebrations.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient here plays a role in making your Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe turn out just right. From creamy peanut butter that gives that rich flavor, to brown sugar which adds moisture and chewiness, every element is thoughtfully chosen. Here are a few tips for shopping and prepping:
- Granulated sugar: Gives a crisp edge and slightly sparkling texture, especially when rolled in sugar before baking.
- Brown sugar: Keeps the cookies moist and adds a hint of caramel flavor.
- Creamy peanut butter: Essential for that classic peanut butter flavor and smooth bite; avoid natural peanut butter as it may change texture.
- Unsalted butter: Using softened butter helps with easy mixing and creates a tender crumb.
- Large egg: Binds everything together; room temperature eggs blend more evenly.
- All-purpose flour: The base structure for the cookie, giving balance between fluffiness and sturdiness.
- Baking soda: Helps the cookie rise slightly so they're not too dense.
- Baking powder: Provides gentle lift and lightness.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
- Chocolate candy kisses: The iconic finishing touch; I always stick with classic Hershey’s for that familiar taste.
Make It Your Way
This Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe is such a lovely canvas for your baking creativity. Personally, I like to add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt over the kisses just before serving—it amps up the flavor beautifully. But don’t hesitate to make it your own!
- Peanut Butter Swap: I once tried creamy almond butter instead, and while it changed the flavor, the texture was still great—perfect if you want a twist or have a peanut allergy.
- Chocolate Variations: Using dark chocolate kisses adds richness, and white chocolate kisses give a fun visual pop.
- Nut Toppings: If you’re feeling fancy, pressing a few chopped peanuts or a drizzle of melted peanut butter over the top creates a festive feel.
- Spicy Kick: For a grown-up version, a tiny pinch of cayenne in the dough balances the sweetness surprisingly well.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe
Step 1: Whip Together The Sugars and Peanut Butter Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to go when your dough is mixed. In a large bowl, I use an electric mixer to cream the brown sugar, granulated sugar, creamy peanut butter, softened butter, and the egg until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Make sure your butter isn’t cold—that way everything blends effortlessly and you don’t end up with lumps.
Step 2: Gently Fold in the Dry Ingredients
Switch your mixer to low and add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt a little at a time. This prevents any flour clouds and ensures it all merges nicely into a soft, slightly sticky dough. If your dough feels too crumbly, a teaspoon of milk can help, but usually, this combo is balanced.
Step 3: Shape, Sugar, and Bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls—this part is fun, and I often sneak in a little extra sugar on my fingers for that sparkle. Then roll each ball in granulated sugar to give the cookies a beautiful, sugary crust. Place them spaced about 2 inches apart on an ungreased baking sheet (this allows them some space to puff slightly).
Bake one sheet at a time for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just turning a light golden brown. Timing here is key because you want the centers soft but not doughy.
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