Craving a sweet treat that combines rich peanut butter with a chocolate kiss? Look no further! In this guide, I’ll walk you through my irresistible Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies recipe. You’ll discover simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned pro, these cookies will delight your taste buds and impress your friends. Let’s dive in and create something delicious together!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies need creamy peanut butter. This gives them that rich, nutty flavor. The sugars add sweetness and create a nice texture. You can use natural or processed peanut butter, but creamy is best for this recipe.
Additional Ingredients
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
You will need two large eggs. They help bind the dough together. Vanilla extract adds a lovely aroma and taste. All-purpose flour gives the cookies structure and makes them soft.
Baking Essentials
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 36 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
– Granulated sugar for rolling
Baking soda helps the cookies rise. Salt balances the sweetness. You will top each cookie with a Hershey’s Kiss. This is what makes them special! Lastly, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar for a sweet crust.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1 cup of brown sugar. Stir until the mix is smooth and well combined.
Dough Preparation
3. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time. Then, pour in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully blended.
4. In another bowl, whisk 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the peanut butter mix. Stir until just combined.
Baking
5. Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Coat each ball in granulated sugar.
6. Place the sugar-coated balls on your baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cookies are lightly golden on the edges.
8. Remove the cookies from the oven. Quickly press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. After that, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
– Space the cookies 2 inches apart on the baking sheet. This helps them bake evenly. If they are too close, they might merge together.
– Check the cookies at 10 minutes. They should be lightly golden at the edges. If they look too soft, give them a minute or two more.
Peanut Butter Tips
– Use creamy peanut butter. It gives the cookies a smooth, rich texture. Chunky peanut butter can make the cookies crumbly.
– Adjust the sugar if you want a sweeter or less sweet cookie. You can add a bit more granulated or brown sugar to taste.
Cooling Advice
– Let the cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. This helps them set before moving.
– Store cookies in an airtight container. This keeps them soft and fresh for longer.
Variations
Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossoms
You can switch things up by using chocolate peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter. This change gives the cookies a rich, chocolatey twist. You can also add chocolate chips to the dough. Just toss in about a cup of chips when mixing the dry ingredients. This step makes the cookies even more decadent.
Nut-Free Options
If you need a nut-free cookie, sun butter or soy nut butter works well. Both options give a similar taste and texture. When using these spreads, you might want to lower the sugar a bit. This adjustment helps balance the sweetness and keeps the cookies delicious.
Seasonal Variations
You can make these cookies fit the season! For fall, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm flavors. Another fun idea is to swap Hershey’s Kisses for seasonal candies. Think pumpkin spice or peppermint kisses for a festive touch! These changes keep your baking exciting and fresh.
Storage Info
Storing Cookies
To keep your Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies fresh, follow these tips:
– Cool cookies completely before storing.
– Use an airtight container to seal in moisture.
– Layer cookies with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
I recommend clear plastic containers or glass jars. They show off your cookies and keep them fresh.
Freezing Cookies
Freezing cookies is a great way to enjoy them later. Here’s how:
– Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap or foil.
– Place wrapped cookies in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible.
When you’re ready to eat them, thaw cookies at room temperature. This keeps their texture soft and chewy.
Shelf Life
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies last about a week at room temperature. To keep them longer:
– Store in a cool, dry place.
– Use the freezer option for up to three months.
These tips help ensure you enjoy these treats whenever you crave them!
FAQs
What are Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies?
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are soft and chewy treats. They combine peanut butter with a sweet, sugary dough. Each cookie has a chocolate kiss on top. This adds a nice contrast to the peanut butter flavor. The cookies are golden brown with a crinkly surface. These cookies are perfect for any occasion. They are fun to make and even better to eat.
How long do Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies last?
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies stay fresh for about one week. Store them in an airtight container to keep them soft. If you live in a humid area, they may last less time. You can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap them well. Thaw them at room temperature when you are ready to enjoy them.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies! Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Look for blends that work well in baking. You may need to adjust the amount slightly. This change will help keep the cookie texture nice. Enjoy your gluten-free version just as much!
To sum up, making Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies is simple and fun. You need key ingredients like peanut butter, sugar, and eggs. Follow the easy steps to mix, shape, and bake. Remember to let them cool before enjoying.
These cookies are tasty and perfect for sharing. You can also try fun variations and storage tips to keep them fresh. Baking is an adventure, so have fun with it! Enjoy every bite of your sweet creations.
