Peanut butter blossoms
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar plus more for rolling
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 large egg (room temperature)
1 1/2cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
36 Hersey’s chocolate kisses unwrapped
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl or the a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the peanut butter, unsalted butter, sugars and salt.
Cream together on medium speed until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla. Beat until well combined. Scrape down the bowl. Add the flour and baking soda and beat on low speed just until combined.
Scoop the dough and roll into 1-inch balls. Coat in additional granulated sugar if desired. Place on a prepared baking sheet 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. Remove cookies to cool on cooling rack
Peanut butter blossoms are a beloved classic cookie, especially popular during the holidays, thanks to their unique combination of soft peanut butter cookie dough topped with a distinctive Hershey’s chocolate kiss. These cookies offer both a delightful texture and a perfect sweet-salty balance that appeals to many. One key to achieving the perfect peanut butter blossom lies in the dough’s composition. Using a mix of creamy peanut butter and unsalted butter ensures a smooth, rich flavor. Softened unsalted butter allows for better incorporation with the sugars, which include both granulated and packed light brown sugar, adding depth and a hint of caramel. Adding a pinch of salt enhances the overall taste, balancing sweetness. The baking process is also crucial. Preheating the oven to 375°F guarantees the cookies bake evenly and attain a light golden-brown color, indicating the ideal softness inside and slight crispness outside. Rolling the dough into 1-inch balls and coating them with extra granulated sugar before baking not only creates a pleasant outer texture but also helps the cookies maintain their shape. Pressing an unwrapped Hershey’s chocolate kiss into the center immediately after removal from the oven allows the chocolate to soften without melting entirely, creating that iconic bloom effect. Cooling the cookies on a rack lets them firm up slightly, making them easier to handle and enhancing flavor development. For variation, some bakers suggest chilling the dough before baking, which can reduce spreading and intensify flavor. Additionally, experimenting with different types of peanut butter, such as natural or crunchy, can add unique textures. Because these cookies are simple to make yet incredibly satisfying, they are often a festive favorite for gatherings, cookie exchanges, and holiday parties. Not only do they taste delicious, but their signature look with the chocolate kiss also appeals visually, making them inviting and joyful to serve. If you’re looking to add a personal touch, consider sprinkling a little sea salt on top of each chocolate kiss for a gourmet twist or using flavored chocolate kisses, such as peppermint, to complement the holiday spirit. Baking these cookies with family and friends can also be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when sharing the joy of homemade treats during festive occasions. Overall, peanut butter blossoms are a timeless recipe that combines simple ingredients to create a memorable and scrumptious dessert. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is accessible and sure to please everyone’s sweet tooth.