As autumn arrives, the smell of peanut butter blossoms fills the kitchen. It brings back happy memories from my childhood. These cookies are a favorite during the holidays. Their softness and the mix of chocolate and peanut butter are irresistible.
This recipe has been loved since 2016. Donna gave it a five-star review, saying it’s her favorite. It’s quick to make, looks great, and tastes perfect. That’s why these cookies are a holiday tradition.
Key Takeaways
- Classic peanut butter blossom cookies are a beloved holiday treat
- The recipe features a soft, peanut buttery texture and a delightful combination of chocolate and peanut butter
- The cookies are easy to make and visually appealing, making them a perfect addition to any holiday cookie tray
- This updated recipe includes new photos and a video tutorial for even greater convenience
- Readers have raved about the recipe, calling it their “favorite cookie” that is “simple and worth it”
Why These Peanut Butter Blossoms Are Holiday Favorites
Peanut butter blossoms are a favorite Christmas cookie for many reasons. They have a soft, extra thick texture that’s perfect for the chocolate kiss on top. The peanut butter cookie dough is rich in flavor, making every bite delicious.
These cookies are quick to prepare. They only need about 1 hour of dough chilling before baking.
Perfect Cookie Texture
The soft, chewy texture of peanut butter blossoms is irresistible. The dough is thicker than usual, making the cookies substantial. This texture complements the chocolate kiss topping beautifully.
When baked, the cookies become melt-in-your-mouth treats. This quality makes them irresistible to everyone.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal
Peanut butter blossoms are loved by all ages. Their peanut butter and chocolate flavors are a classic favorite. Plus, they look great with colorful sanding sugars, making them a hit at any holiday party.
Quick Preparation Time
Peanut butter blossoms are easy to make. The dough only needs 1 hour in the fridge before baking. This makes them perfect for a quick holiday treat.
These cookies are a holiday must-have. Their soft texture, delicious flavor, and quick prep time make them a timeless favorite.
“The peanut butter blossom is the most-searched cookie recipe in Pennsylvania over the holidays, according to Google Trends.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms
To make the perfect peanut butter blossoms, you need a few key ingredients. You’ll need all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Also, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, brown sugar, an egg, unsalted butter, and creamy peanut butter. It’s crucial to use a processed peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for the best taste.
Peanut butter blossoms use less flour than regular cookies. This is because peanut butter acts as a natural binder. Using too much flour would make the cookies dry. The recipe uses only 1 ½ cups of flour to keep them soft and chewy.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup creamy peanut butter
- 24 chocolate kiss candies
The mix of granulated sugar and brown sugar gives the cookies the right sweetness and chewiness. And let’s not forget the chocolate kiss candies. They’re the iconic topping that makes peanut butter blossoms a holiday favorite.
“The secret to perfect peanut butter blossoms is using the right ratio of dry to wet ingredients. Too much flour can make the cookies dry, while too little can result in a greasy texture.”
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To bake the classic peanut butter blossoms, you need a few key tools. These tools help make the cookies soft and sweet. Having the right tools ensures your holiday cookies turn out great.
Baking Essentials
- Glass or stainless steel mixing bowl for creaming the butter and sugars
- Whisk for incorporating the dry ingredients
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer for whipping the batter to the right texture
- Silicone spatula for scraping down the sides of the bowl and folding in the chocolate kisses
- Baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Cooling rack for letting the cookies set after baking
Measuring Tools
Getting the measurements right is crucial for perfect peanut butter blossoms. Here are the tools you’ll need:
- Dry measuring cups for portioning out the flour, sugar, and other dry ingredients
- Liquid measuring cup for accurately measuring the peanut butter and other wet ingredients
- Measuring spoons for the baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract
Optional Equipment
While not essential, some tools can make baking easier:
- Cookie scoop for portioning out uniform dough balls
- Kitchen scale for precisely weighing ingredients
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cookie removal
With the right baking sheets, electric mixer, and measuring tools, you’re ready to make delicious peanut butter blossoms this holiday season.
Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions
Making perfect peanut butter blossoms starts with mixing. First, cream the butter with granulated and brown sugars until smooth. This step is key for the right cookie dough texture.
Then, mix in the egg, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Make sure to scrape down the bowl to mix everything well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt for the dry ingredients.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mix, mixing until the dough forms. Don’t overmix to avoid tough cookies.
- After the dough forms, cover it and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This step is important for the cookies to hold their shape and for easier handling.
By following these steps for cookie dough preparation and chilling dough, you’ll get soft and delicious peanut butter blossoms. Now, let’s shape and bake the cookies.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter, softened | 1/2 cup (1 stick) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Brown sugar, packed | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Peanut butter | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| All-purpose flour | 1 3/4 cups |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
Tips for Rolling and Shaping Your Cookies
Once your peanut butter dough is chilled, it’s time to shape those delightful cookie dough balls. The secret to perfect peanut butter blossoms lies in the rolling and spacing techniques.
Sugar Coating Techniques
Before baking, roll each heaping tablespoon of dough into smooth, round balls. For an extra sparkly and textured finish, roll the cookie dough balls in granulated sugar or sanding sugar. This will give your cookie dough balls a delightful crunch on the outside while keeping the centers soft and chewy.
For a festive touch, try using colored sanding sugars like green and red for holiday-themed peanut butter blossoms. The vibrant sugar crystals will make your cookies pop on the baking sheet.
Size and Spacing Guidelines
When placing the coated cookie dough balls onto your baking sheets, space them about 3 inches apart. This allows the cookies to spread and develop their signature crackly tops during baking without merging together.
Using a small cookie scoop or 1-tablespoon measuring spoon, portion out the dough into evenly-sized cookie dough balls. Uniform sizing ensures your peanut butter blossoms bake evenly.
Remember, these cookies won’t spread too much, so you can fit plenty on a single baking sheet. Just be mindful of that 3-inch spacing rule for best results.
Baking Time and Temperature Guidelines
To bake perfect peanut butter blossom cookies, follow the right oven temperature and baking time. Preheat your oven to a toasty 350°F (177°C). This ensures the cookies bake evenly and get that soft texture you love.
For cookie baking time, aim for 11-13 minutes in the preheated oven. The cookies are done when the tops crack and edges turn golden. But, the centers should still be soft when you take them out.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before adding chocolate kisses. This step helps the cookies set right for the crab imperial chocolate topping.
“The secret to peanut butter blossom cookie perfection lies in the just-right oven temperature and baking time.”
By following these guidelines, you’ll get soft, chewy, and irresistible peanut butter blossom cookies. Enjoy the amazing aroma of freshly baked cookies in your kitchen as you finish the final touches.
How to Add Chocolate Kisses Perfectly
Adding chocolate kisses to your peanut butter blossoms is the final touch. It makes these cookies true holiday classics. Follow these easy steps to keep the chocolate kisses perfect.
Timing the Kiss Placement
Wait about 5 minutes after baking to add the chocolate kisses. Press a Hershey’s kiss into the center of each cookie. Do this right after taking the cookies out of the oven to avoid melting.
Preventing Chocolate Melt
To stop the chocolate kisses from getting soft, move the cookies to a plate or several smaller ones with a spatula. Then, put the cookies in the freezer for 10 minutes. This freezer method keeps the chocolate kisses looking and feeling great.
With these tips, your chocolate kiss placement will always be spot-on. You’ll make beautiful and tasty peanut butter blossoms that everyone will love.
Storage and Freshness Tips
Baking peanut butter blossoms is a fun holiday tradition. But, how do you keep them fresh? These tips will help your cookies stay soft and sweet.
At room temperature, your cookies can last up to 1 week in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. To freeze cookies, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, move them to a container or bag.
Want to start baking early? Freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, bake the dough balls for a bit longer. This way, you can have fresh cookies whenever you want.
To avoid cookies sticking together, line your container with parchment paper. This trick keeps your cookies separate in the cookie storage.
“The key to keeping peanut butter blossoms at their best is proper cookie storage. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy these sweet treats for weeks to come.”
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
The classic peanut butter blossoms are tasty, but the recipe is even more fun when you get creative. You can make it fit your diet or try new tastes. This holiday treat can be made in many ways.
Nut-Free Options
If you can’t eat nuts, no worries. Use sunflower seed butter or almond butter cookies instead. They might taste a bit different, but they’ll still be yummy. Biscoff spread is also a great choice for a nut-free cookie.
Chocolate Alternatives
Want to try something new? Fill the cookies with peanut butter cups or chocolate hearts. You can also use different kinds of chocolate, like milk, dark, or white. For a special touch, add a bit of crab bisque to the cookie before baking.
This recipe is all about making it your own. Whether you choose nut-free or chocolate options, you’ll get a treat that’s both festive and delicious.
Conclusion
Peanut butter blossoms are a favorite holiday cookie. They mix the classic tastes of peanut butter and chocolate. This recipe has been loved for decades, becoming a key part of holiday baking in the U.S.
These cookies are perfect for a festive cookie exchange, as gifts, or just for family fun. They are soft, chewy, and sure to please everyone.
Making peanut butter blossoms is easy, thanks to a simple list of ingredients and clear steps. This recipe is great for all kinds of bakers. You can also try different versions to fit your needs, like gluten-free or vegan options.
As you start your holiday baking, remember the history and love behind peanut butter blossoms. Keep alive the cookie traditions that have been shared for years. Make new memories with your family by baking these tasty treats.
Enjoy the happiness, nostalgia, and yummy flavors of peanut butter blossoms this holiday season.
FAQ
What makes peanut butter blossoms a quintessential Christmas cookie?
Peanut butter blossoms are loved for their soft, peanut buttery taste. They’re easy to make and have a perfect mix of peanut butter and chocolate.
Why are peanut butter blossoms one of the best Christmas cookies?
These cookies are soft and have a thick base for the chocolate kiss. They’re simple to make and have a strong peanut butter flavor. Plus, they only need 1 hour of chilling.
What are the key ingredients for peanut butter blossoms?
You’ll need flour, baking soda, salt, vanilla, sugar, brown sugar, egg, butter, peanut butter, and chocolate kiss candies. Use processed peanut butter like Jif or Skippy for the best taste.
What kitchen tools and equipment are needed to make peanut butter blossoms?
You’ll need a glass bowl, whisk, electric mixer, spatula, baking sheets, and a cooling rack. Also, have measuring tools ready for accurate amounts.
How do you mix the peanut butter blossom dough?
First, cream the butter and sugars. Then, mix in the egg, peanut butter, and vanilla. Add the dry ingredients slowly to make a soft dough. Chill it for at least 1 hour before shaping.
How should you roll and shape the peanut butter blossom cookies?
Chill the dough, then roll it into 1 heaping tablespoon balls. Roll each ball in sugar or sanding sugar. Place the cookies 3 inches apart on the baking sheet.
What are the baking time and temperature guidelines for peanut butter blossoms?
Preheat to 350°F (177°C). Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the tops crack slightly. The cookies should be soft when taken out of the oven.
How do you add the chocolate kisses to the peanut butter blossoms?
After cooling for 5 minutes, press a chocolate kiss into each cookie. Then, transfer the cookies to a plate and freeze for 10 minutes to keep the chocolate from melting.
How can peanut butter blossoms be stored and how long do they stay fresh?
Store them at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. You can also freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months.
What are some recipe variations and substitutions for peanut butter blossoms?
For nut-free versions, use sunflower seed butter or Biscoff spread instead of peanut butter. Almond butter or other nut butters can also be used, but might make the cookies crumblier. Try peanut butter cups or chocolate hearts as chocolate alternatives.
Source Links
- Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms – Sally’s Baking Addiction – https://sallysbakingaddiction.com/classic-peanut-butter-blossoms/
- Soft Peanut Butter Blossoms – The Seasoned Mom – https://www.theseasonedmom.com/peanut-butter-blossoms/