Indulge in the nostalgic charm of Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies, a classic treat that marries the irresistible flavors of creamy peanut butter and decadent Hershey’s chocolate kisses. Whether it’s for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or simply an everyday indulgence, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings. Soft, chewy, and adorned with a delightful chocolate center, they’re bound to become a cherished favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup shortening
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 large egg
- 2 ½ cups flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 36 Hershey’s Kisses or Hugs
- 2 cups sugar (for rolling cookies)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two cookie sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat together the sugar, brown sugar, peanut butter, shortening, butter, and egg until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4: Form Dough Balls
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a dough forms. Use a small ice cream scoop to portion out the dough, then roll it into balls with your hands.
Step 5: Roll in Sugar
Pour the remaining 2 cups of sugar into a bowl. Roll each cookie dough ball in the sugar until evenly coated, then place them onto the prepared cookie sheets.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for approximately 11 minutes, or until they are lightly golden brown around the edges.
Step 7: Add Hershey’s Kisses
While the cookies are baking, unwrap the Hershey’s Kisses. Once the cookies are done baking, allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 1-2 minutes.
Step 8: Add Kisses and Cool
Press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each warm cookie, then allow them to cool for an additional 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 min | Cooking Time: 11 min | Total Time: 26 min | Servings: 36
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Suggestions: Present your Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies on a decorative platter or in a cookie jar for a charming presentation. These cookies pair perfectly with a tall glass of cold milk or a cup of hot cocoa. Consider garnishing the serving platter with additional Hershey’s Kisses for an extra touch of sweetness.
Storage: If you have any leftover cookies (which is unlikely!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. To maintain their freshness and texture, you can also store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer-term storage, you can freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies remain delicious and irresistible, whether you’re enjoying them freshly baked or savoring them later as a delightful snack.
Variations:
1. Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossoms: For a double dose of chocolate, use chocolate peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter in the cookie dough. You can also roll the cookie dough balls in chocolate sprinkles or cocoa powder before baking for an extra chocolatey touch.
2. Almond Butter Blossom Cookies: Swap out the peanut butter for almond butter to create a nutty twist on the classic recipe. Top each cookie with a Hershey’s Kiss or Hug, or try using almond chocolate kisses for added flavor.
3. Nutella Blossom Cookies: Incorporate Nutella into the cookie dough for a hazelnut-chocolate flavor explosion. Simply replace a portion of the peanut butter with Nutella and proceed with the recipe as usual.
4. Coconut Peanut Butter Blossoms: Add shredded coconut to the cookie dough for a tropical twist. Roll the cookie dough balls in toasted coconut flakes before baking to enhance the coconut flavor and add a crunchy texture.
5. Salted Caramel Peanut Butter Blossoms: Drizzle each cookie with homemade or store-bought salted caramel sauce before adding the Hershey’s Kiss. The combination of sweet and salty flavors creates an irresistible treat that’s sure to impress.
6. M&M Peanut Butter Blossoms: Press a colorful M&M candy into the center of each cookie instead of a Hershey’s Kiss for a fun and festive variation. You can use classic M&M’s or choose seasonal colors to match the occasion.
7. White Chocolate Raspberry Blossoms: Replace the Hershey’s Kisses with white chocolate chips or chunks and add dried raspberries to the cookie dough for a fruity twist. The tartness of the raspberries complements the sweetness of the white chocolate for a delicious flavor combination.
8. Peanut Butter Cup Blossoms: Place a mini peanut butter cup in the center of each cookie instead of a Hershey’s Kiss for a decadent twist. You can use regular or mini-sized peanut butter cups depending on your preference.
9. Spiced Peanut Butter Blossoms: Add warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to the cookie dough for a cozy, fall-inspired version of the classic recipe. These spices add depth of flavor and pair beautifully with the peanut butter and chocolate.
10. Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossoms: Stir chocolate chips or chunks into the cookie dough along with the peanut butter for an indulgent chocolate experience. Top each cookie with a Hershey’s Kiss for an extra chocolatey treat that’s sure to satisfy any chocolate lover.
Experiment with these variations to put your own unique spin on the classic Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies. Whether you’re craving something fruity, nutty, or extra chocolaty, there’s a delicious variation to suit every taste preference.
FAQs:
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy? Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter for added texture in your cookies. However, keep in mind that the texture of the cookies may be slightly different compared to using creamy peanut butter.
2. Can I substitute margarine for the butter and shortening? While margarine can be used as a substitute, the flavor and texture of the cookies may be affected. Butter and shortening contribute to the desired texture and flavor profile of Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies.
3. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much? To prevent cookies from spreading too much during baking, make sure the dough is properly chilled before baking. Additionally, avoid overmixing the dough and ensure your oven is fully preheated.
4. Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use? Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Form the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer bag or container. When ready to bake, let the dough thaw slightly before rolling in sugar and baking as directed.
5. How do I store leftover Hershey’s Kisses Cookies? Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
6. Can I use a different type of chocolate in the center? Yes, you can experiment with different types of chocolate candies or kisses in the center of the cookies. Try using dark chocolate kisses, caramel-filled chocolates, or white chocolate chips for a unique flavor twist.
7. How can I make these cookies gluten-free? You can make these cookies gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the Hershey’s Kisses, are also gluten-free.
8. Can I make smaller or larger cookies? Yes, you can adjust the size of the cookies by changing the amount of dough you use for each cookie. Keep in mind that baking times may vary depending on the size of the cookies.
9. Can I make Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies without eggs? Yes, you can make eggless Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies by using a suitable egg substitute such as mashed banana, applesauce, or a commercial egg replacer. The texture and flavor may vary slightly.
10. How do I ensure my cookies have the perfect soft and chewy texture? To achieve soft and chewy Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies, avoid overbaking them. Bake just until the edges are lightly golden brown, and the centers are set but still slightly soft. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
These FAQs provide helpful tips and answers to common questions about making, storing, and customizing Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to bake delicious cookies that everyone will love.
Delight your taste buds with the timeless appeal of Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies. With their perfect balance of peanut butter goodness and chocolate bliss, these cookies are destined to become a cherished tradition in your home.