Peanut Butter Blossoms are a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the holidays. With their chewy peanut butter base and the signature chocolate kiss on top, these cookies are a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors that everyone loves. If you’re craving a cookie that’s soft, rich, and melts in your mouth, you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll take you through a detailed guide on how to make the perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms, substitutions and variations you can try, and tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

What Are Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Peanut Butter Blossoms are classic cookies made with a soft, chewy peanut butter cookie base and topped with a Hershey’s chocolate kiss. These cookies are known for their signature look and combination of flavors. The contrast between the salty richness of peanut butter and the smooth sweetness of the chocolate makes them irresistible. While they’re traditionally made during the holidays, Peanut Butter Blossoms are perfect for any time you’re craving something comforting and delicious.
Ingredients List for Peanut Butter Blossoms
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter: This is the star ingredient, giving the cookies their rich peanut butter flavor.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: To sweeten the cookie dough.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor and keeps the cookies soft.
- 1 large egg: For structure and binding the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the base for the cookie dough.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly and gives them a tender crumb.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the peanut butter flavor.
- Granulated sugar (for rolling): Optional but recommended for an extra crunch and sparkle on the cookie surface.
- Hershey’s Kisses chocolates: The iconic chocolate used to top each cookie.
Substitutions and Variations
- Peanut butter options: If you prefer a different texture, try using chunky peanut butter instead of creamy. It’ll give your cookies a nice crunch. For a healthier alternative, you can use natural peanut butter, but make sure to stir it well before adding it to the dough since natural peanut butter tends to separate.
- Chocolate alternatives: While Hershey’s Kisses are the traditional topping, you can substitute with other chocolates. Consider using mini peanut butter cups, dark chocolate squares, or even chocolate-covered caramels for a different twist.
- Gluten-free option: For a gluten-free version, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour blend.
- Sugar substitutes: To make a lower-sugar or diabetic-friendly version, you can use sugar alternatives like stevia or monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated sugar. Make sure to use a sugar substitute that’s suitable for baking to maintain the texture and sweetness of the cookies.
- Vegan variation: Replace the butter with a plant-based margarine and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water) to create a vegan-friendly version of these cookies. Use dairy-free chocolate for the topping.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until well combined.
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough forms and all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Shape the dough: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls (about the size of a tablespoon). For an added crunch, roll each dough ball in granulated sugar before placing them onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them about 2 inches apart, as the cookies will spread slightly as they bake.
- Bake the cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the cookies to remain soft.
- Add the Hershey’s Kisses: As soon as you remove the cookies from the oven, press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The cookies will crack slightly around the edges, which is exactly what you want. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: One of the most common mistakes when making Peanut Butter Blossoms is overbaking. These cookies should be soft and chewy, so make sure to remove them from the oven as soon as the edges are set but the center still looks slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Not chilling the dough: If your dough is too warm, the cookies may spread too much during baking. To prevent this, consider chilling the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes if it seems too soft or sticky.
- Using the wrong peanut butter: While natural peanut butter can be used, it must be well-stirred. Otherwise, the oil separation may affect the consistency of the dough.
- Pressing the Kisses too late: If you wait too long to press the chocolate kisses into the cookies, the cookies may cool too much, causing the chocolate not to stick well. Make sure to press the kisses in immediately after the cookies come out of the oven.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Plating the cookies: Arrange your Peanut Butter Blossoms on a decorative platter or a rustic wooden board for a cozy and inviting presentation. If serving during the holidays, consider placing them on a holiday-themed plate or adding festive decorations around the platter.
- Pairing with beverages: These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, hot cocoa, or a cup of coffee. For a holiday twist, serve them with eggnog or spiced cider.
- Gifting ideas: Peanut Butter Blossoms make excellent gifts. Arrange the cookies in a decorative tin or wrap them in a clear cellophane bag with a festive ribbon. You can also stack the cookies in mason jars for a charming, homemade gift.
How to Serve Peanut Butter Blossoms
Peanut Butter Blossoms are best served at room temperature, but they can also be slightly warmed for an extra-soft texture. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or as a treat to enjoy with your family. Serve them alongside other classic cookies like chocolate chip or snickerdoodles to create a diverse and inviting cookie platter.
Presentation Ideas for Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Holiday themes: Decorate your serving plate with holiday-themed decorations, such as small ornaments, sprigs of holly, or festive napkins. You can even dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a snowy effect.
- Cookie towers: Stack the cookies in a tiered display for a visually appealing presentation. Add a sprig of mint or edible flowers to the display for a pop of color.
- Gift wrapping: As mentioned earlier, Peanut Butter Blossoms make great gifts. Wrap them in colorful tissue paper or place them in a decorative tin for a thoughtful and delicious present.
Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe Tips
- Double the batch: These cookies disappear quickly, so consider doubling the recipe if you’re making them for a large crowd or for gifting.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze the unbaked cookie dough balls and bake them straight from frozen, just adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.
- Store properly: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will give the cookies extra texture, but keep in mind it may slightly affect the smoothness of the dough.
What if I don’t have Hershey’s Kisses?
You can substitute other chocolate candies, such as mini peanut butter cups, chocolate chunks, or even small squares of your favorite chocolate bar.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make these cookies gluten-free by using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough isn’t required, but if your dough is too soft or sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
Can I freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Yes! You can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies. For the dough, shape it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. For the baked cookies, just store them in an airtight container with layers separated by parchment paper.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Blossoms are a delightful, crowd-pleasing cookie that’s easy to make and even easier to eat! With their classic combination of peanut butter and chocolate, these cookies are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making them for the holidays or just as a special treat, follow the steps outlined in this guide for perfect cookies every time. Don’t forget to try some of the substitutions and variations to put your own twist on this classic recipe. Happy baking!
PrintClassic Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe
Enjoy this classic Peanut Butter Blossoms recipe, a perfect blend of soft peanut butter cookies topped with rich chocolate kisses. This simple and delicious cookie recipe is a favorite during holidays and cookie swaps. Easy to make with basic ingredients, it’s sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup peanut butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- Granulated sugar (for rolling)
- Chocolate kisses (about 36)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each in granulated sugar.
- Place dough balls on the baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie after removing from the oven. Cool on a wire rack.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter for a smoother dough.
- Press chocolate kisses into cookies while they’re hot, but avoid melting them.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 85mg
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