Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms

Is there anything more comforting than a batch of warm, freshly baked peanut butter blossoms? These iconic cookies, with their soft, melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter base and a perfectly placed Hershey’s Kiss on top, are a holiday staple for a reason. They’re the epitome of simple indulgence, bringing back cherished memories of cozy kitchens and festive celebrations. As the holiday season approaches, let’s rediscover the joy of baking these classic treats. They’re not just cookies; they’re edible hugs that everyone will adore.

My love for baking peanut butter blossoms started in my grandmother’s kitchen. She always had a batch ready for the holidays. Over the years, I’ve experimented with slight variations, perfecting the recipe to ensure a consistently soft, chewy cookie that holds its shape and delivers that perfect peanut butter flavor. This recipe incorporates some tricks I’ve learned from years of baking, so everyone can achieve cookie perfection at home. Get ready to experience the magic of these timeless treats!

Ingredients for Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms

Let’s gather the ingredients needed to create these irresistible cookies. Using high-quality ingredients is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Understanding the role of each ingredient can also help troubleshoot any issues and customize the recipe to your liking.

• All-Purpose Flour: 2 ¾ cups. Flour provides structure to the cookie. Too much flour can make the cookies dry, while too little can make them spread too thin.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon. Baking soda acts as a leavening agent, giving the cookies a light and airy texture.
• Salt: ½ teaspoon. Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), softened. Butter adds richness and moisture to the cookies. Make sure the butter is properly softened (but not melted!) for best results.
• Creamy Peanut Butter: ¾ cup. Use a good-quality creamy peanut butter for the best flavor. Avoid natural peanut butter, as it tends to separate and can make the cookies dry. Look for peanut butter with just peanuts and salt on the ingredient list.
• Granulated Sugar: ½ cup, plus extra for rolling. Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps the cookies crisp up around the edges.
• Packed Brown Sugar: ½ cup. Brown sugar adds moisture and a chewy texture to the cookies.
• Large Egg: 1. The egg binds the ingredients together and adds richness and moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons. Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cookies.
• Milk: 2 tablespoons. Milk adds moisture to the dough.
• Hershey’s Kisses: About 48 unwrapped. The star of the show! Make sure they are unwrapped and ready to go before the cookies come out of the oven.

Ingredient Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure to add ¼ teaspoon of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t already contain it.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan butter in place of regular butter.

Expert Tips for Perfect Blossoms

After countless batches of peanut butter blossoms, I’ve gathered a few key tips to ensure cookie perfection. These little details can make a big difference in the final result.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes (or even longer) helps prevent the cookies from spreading too thin in the oven. This is crucial for maintaining that signature dome shape.
• Don’t Overbake: These cookies should be soft and chewy, not crispy. Bake them until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly soft. They will continue to set up as they cool.
• Even Baking: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven temperature is accurate. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through baking to promote even browning.
• The Right Peanut Butter: As mentioned before, avoid using natural peanut butter as it can separate and cause the cookies to be dry. If you prefer natural peanut butter, be sure to stir it very well and add a bit more shortening.
• Timing the Kisses: Press the Hershey’s Kisses into the cookies as soon as they come out of the oven while they’re still soft. This will help them adhere properly.
• Prevent Cracking: If your cookies are cracking too much on top, try reducing the oven temperature slightly or shortening the baking time.

Storage & Substitutions

Proper storage is essential to keep your peanut butter blossoms fresh and delicious. Here’s how to store them, along with some substitution ideas for dietary needs or preferences.

Storage Instructions:

Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Freezing Instructions:

To freeze the cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. This will prevent them from sticking together.

FAQ About Peanut Butter Blossoms

Here are some frequently asked questions about making peanut butter blossoms, along with detailed answers to help you achieve baking success.

Why are my peanut butter blossoms flat?

Flat cookies can be caused by several factors. Make sure your butter isn’t too soft or melted. Over-mixing the dough can also contribute to flat cookies. Chilling the dough before baking is essential to prevent spreading. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate.

Can I use a different type of chocolate kiss?

Absolutely! While Hershey’s Kisses are the classic choice, you can use other flavors like caramel-filled, dark chocolate, or even Hugs (the striped ones) for a fun twist. Just be sure to unwrap them before baking!

How do I prevent the Hershey’s Kisses from melting too much?

The key is to press the Kisses into the cookies as soon as they come out of the oven. The residual heat will soften them just enough to adhere to the cookie without melting completely. If your kitchen is very warm, you can briefly chill the unwrapped Kisses in the refrigerator before using them.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. You may need to let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly before rolling it into balls.

Why are my cookies dry and crumbly?

Dry cookies are often caused by too much flour or overbaking. Make sure you measure the flour accurately, and don’t overbake the cookies. They should be soft in the center when you remove them from the oven. Also, avoid using natural peanut butter, as it tends to dry out the dough.

Can I add sprinkles to the cookies?

Yes, you can add sprinkles! Before baking, lightly press the dough balls into a plate of festive sprinkles before placing them on the baking sheet. This adds a fun, colorful touch to your blossoms.

How do I keep the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet?

Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup much easier. Alternatively, you can lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray.

Share the Sweetness of Peanut Butter Blossoms

There you have it – a foolproof recipe for classic peanut butter blossoms that are sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations! These cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a symbol of warmth, nostalgia, and the simple pleasures of baking. From chilling the dough to perfecting the timing of the Hershey’s Kiss, each step contributes to creating a truly unforgettable cookie experience.

Now it’s your turn to bake up a batch and share the sweetness! Don’t forget to leave a comment below letting me know how your cookies turned out, and feel free to share any variations or tips you discovered along the way. Happy baking, and happy holidays!

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