Ah, Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies – where irresistible peanut butter goodness meets a delightful hint of chocolate. I can still remember my grandmother whipping up a batch of these cookies during the holidays, her kitchen filled with that sweet, nutty aroma. They were a staple in our family, often bringing back memories of cozy gatherings filled with laughter and stories shared over a plate of these delicious treats.
What makes these cookies so special is not just their taste but also the joy they bring. Each bite is a delectable balance of soft, chewy cookie and a sweet Hershey’s kiss on top, making them a crowd-pleaser for all ages. I still make them every year, and it never fails – they disappear faster than I can bake them!
What’s in Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies?
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of the cookie recipe, providing structure and that classic chewy texture we crave. I always use unbleached flour for a more natural flavor.
Baking Soda: This leavener is key to giving these cookies a nice rise and a soft texture. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results!
Salt: A crucial ingredient that enhances the flavors of the peanut butter and chocolate, making them pop in every bite.
Unsalted Butter: I prefer unsalted butter because it allows me to control the sodium levels in the final product. It also helps create a crumbly texture that’s to die for.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens the dough just right. A little sugar goes a long way in making these cookies irresistible!
Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a rich flavor, thanks to the molasses content. It gives the cookies that soft, chewy texture that we all love.
Peanut Butter: The star of the show! Creamy or crunchy, it’s all about personal preference. Just make sure it’s a good quality peanut butter for the best flavor.
Vanilla Extract: This adds a wonderful depth to the cookies, rounding out the flavors beautifully. I always opt for pure vanilla extract when I can.
Hershey’s Kisses: The classic chocolate topping that crowns each cookie. Feel free to experiment with different flavors – they’re all delicious!
Is Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Good for You?
Well, let’s be real – these cookies are a treat and should be enjoyed as such! While they do have some nourishing ingredients, they’re primarily a dessert. Here’s a quick rundown on the health aspects:
Peanut Butter: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it gives you a bit of an energy boost. Just be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Brown Sugar: It contains some minerals like calcium and iron but is still sugar, so moderation is key!
Overall, these cookies are best savored in moderation, as they are definitely more indulgent than your average snack.
Ingredients List
– 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 cup creamy or crunchy peanut butter
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1 cup Hershey’s Kisses (about 36 pieces)
This recipe makes about 36 cookies.
How to Make Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the magic temperature that will give your cookies the perfect texture.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside for now – think of it as your dry ingredients starter pack!
3. In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until the mixture is smooth and creamy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer, whatever suits your style!
4. Mix in the vanilla extract, ensuring it’s well incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until everything is combined. Don’t overmix – we want those cookies tender!
6. Roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Give them a little space as they will spread out while baking.
7. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. They may look a little underbaked in the center – that’s okay, they’ll set as they cool.
8. Remove them from the oven and immediately place a Hershey’s Kiss in the center of each cookie. Don’t be shy – push it down gently until the cookie starts to crack around the edges.
9. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Peanut Butter Perfection Tips
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
– You can substitute the Hershey’s kisses with other chocolate varieties or even caramel-filled ones – the possibilities are endless!
– These cookies are perfect for gifting! Just arrange them in a cute box or tin, and trust me, they will be loved.
I can’t recommend these Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies enough! They’re like a warm hug in cookie form. Give this recipe a whirl and let the delightful aroma fill your kitchen, and don’t forget to savor every bite. I’d love to hear how they turn out or any fun twists you make along the way! Enjoy baking!