Introduction
Few desserts encapsulate nostalgia and comfort like Peanut Butter Blossoms. These cookies combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet indulgence of a chocolate Hershey’s Kiss, resulting in a treat that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or even a simple weekday indulgence, Peanut Butter Blossoms are a favorite for people of all ages.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the history of these cookies, their ingredient science, foolproof recipe steps, and exciting variations. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete beginner, this article will help you master the art of Peanut Butter Blossoms.
A Brief History of Peanut Butter Blossoms
Peanut Butter Blossoms made their debut in the Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest of 1957, courtesy of Freda Smith from Ohio. While her entry didn’t win the grand prize, the recipe quickly gained nationwide popularity. Over the years, these cookies have become a holiday tradition and are often a staple at Christmas cookie exchanges.
Why are they called “blossoms”? The name refers to the way the cookies spread slightly and crackle at the edges when a Hershey’s Kiss is pressed into the warm dough, creating a “flower-like” appearance.
Ingredients Breakdown: The Science of Deliciousness
Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make Peanut Butter Blossoms so delightful:
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
| Ingredient | Purpose | Substitutions |
|---|---|---|
| Peanut Butter | Adds rich flavor and moisture. | Almond butter or sunflower seed butter for nut allergies. |
| Butter | Provides richness and a tender crumb. | Vegan butter or margarine for dairy-free. |
| Granulated & Brown Sugar | Granulated sugar adds sweetness; brown sugar adds moisture and depth of flavor. | Coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener. |
| Egg | Binds the dough and gives structure. | Flax egg or chia egg for vegan recipes. |
| Hershey’s Kisses | The iconic chocolate topping that makes these cookies a classic. | Dark chocolate squares or caramel candies. |
| All-Purpose Flour | Provides structure to the cookies. | Gluten-free all-purpose flour for a GF option. |
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps maintain the shape of the cookies and prevents excessive spreading.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh peanut butter and flour for optimal flavor and consistency.
- Shape and Roll: Roll the dough balls evenly and coat them in granulated sugar for a sparkly finish.
- Work Quickly: Press the Hershey’s Kisses into the cookies immediately after removing them from the oven, while the cookies are still warm.
- Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store cookies in an airtight container.
Variations of Peanut Butter Blossoms
1. Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
- Ensure all other ingredients (like peanut butter and Hershey’s Kisses) are gluten-free.
2. Vegan Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Replace butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
- Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water) instead of a traditional egg.
3. Flavored Kisses
- Swap out the classic Hershey’s Kisses for caramel-filled, dark chocolate, or even peppermint Kisses for a festive twist.
4. Holiday-Themed Cookies
- Roll the dough balls in colored sugar or festive sprinkles before baking.
The Ultimate Guide To Peanut Butter Blossoms
Description
Peanut Butter Blossoms are the quintessential cookie for any occasion, combining the nutty richness of peanut butter with the sweet indulgence of chocolate. These soft, chewy cookies are topped with a signature Hershey’s Kiss, making them as delightful to look at as they are to eat. Whether you're baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or just because, this recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress. With easy-to-follow steps and tips for perfect results every time, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. They freeze well, can be adapted for gluten-free diets, and are a hit with kids and adults alike. Give them a try today and savor the timeless combination of flavors!
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Beat in the vanilla extract and egg until well combined.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
-
Chill and Preheat
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill for 10-15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
-
Shape the Cookies
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls (about the size of a walnut). Roll each ball in granulated sugar for an extra sparkle. Place on the prepared baking sheets, spaced 2 inches apart.
-
Bake and Top
Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops have a slight crackle. Immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The cookie will crack slightly, which is normal.
-
Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm or store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Servings 24
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 120kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 6g10%
- Saturated Fat 2g10%
- Cholesterol 10mg4%
- Sodium 75mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 14g5%
- Sugars 10g
- Protein 2g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
You can substitute almond butter for peanut butter for a nutty twist.
Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.
Call to Action
Peanut Butter Blossoms are more than just cookies; they’re a nostalgic treat that brings people together. Perfect for holidays or an everyday indulgence, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Try it out and share your results!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms
Storage:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Refrigeration: Refrigerate in a sealed container to extend freshness up to 10 days.
Freezing:
- Unbaked Dough: Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 1–2 minutes to the baking time.
- Baked Cookies: Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers.
