- Difficulty Level: Beginner
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes
Sweet, Soft Peanut Butter Cookies with a Melty Hershey’s Kiss
Recipe Description
Peanut Butter Blossoms are the perfect festive cookie. With a chewy, peanut butter base and a Hershey’s Kiss center, each bite brings pure joy. These treats are a holiday favorite, ideal for gatherings or gift-giving. Their sweet-salty mix makes them stand out on any cookie tray.
Table of Contents
What to Expect: A Soft, Melt-in-Your-Mouth Treat
As you bake these cookies, expect the warm scent to fill your kitchen. The peanut butter dough transforms into a pillowy base, while each Hershey’s Kiss brings a rich, melty center. The harmony of salty peanut butter and sweet chocolate creates a perfect bite. Whether you’re a baking newcomer or a seasoned pro, these blossoms promise joy and simplicity.
Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter (240g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5mL)
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (2g)
- 24 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
- Extra sugar for rolling (optional)
Note: Measurements are in U.S. and metric units for convenience.
How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place parchment paper on a baking sheet. This keeps the cookies from sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large bowl, blend the peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla, and baking soda. The dough will be thick and sticky.
Step 3: Shape the Cookies
Roll dough into 1-inch balls (about 25g each). For added sweetness, coat each ball in sugar. Arrange on the baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between them.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 8-10 minutes. Check for golden edges and a soft center. They’ll firm up as they cool.
Step 5: Add Hershey’s Kiss
Remove cookies from the oven. Press a Hershey’s Kiss into each cookie center. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. The chocolate will melt slightly, adding extra richness.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool fully. Serve with milk or wrap for gift-giving.
How to Freeze Baked Cookies and Dough
Freezing Baked Cookies
Once cool, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for an hour. Then, stack them in a container, with parchment paper between layers. They keep up to 3 months in the freezer.
Freezing Cookie Dough
To freeze the dough, roll it into balls. Freeze the balls on a baking sheet for an hour. Store them in a container. When ready to bake, add 1-2 extra minutes. The dough lasts 3 months in the freezer.
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Smooth Peanut Butter: Choose smooth for a soft, even texture.
- Avoid Over-Baking: Watch for golden edges but a soft center.
- Uniform Dough Balls: Even balls ensure even baking.
- Use Fresh Hershey’s Kisses: Fresh chocolate melts best.
Peanut Butter Blossoms are easy and joyful to make. Each bite combines chocolate and peanut butter—a classic holiday pairing. This beginner-friendly recipe is sure to become a staple. Make them to share holiday cheer!
Explore Our Cookie Categories
Here are categories of cookies to explore for every craving.
- Tempting Cookies: A range of classic and unique cookies. Perfect for moments when you crave something sweet.
- Healthy Cookies: Nutritious and tasty options. These include gluten-free, low-sugar, and vegan cookies. They let you enjoy without guilt.
- Festive Cookies: Cookies crafted for every season. They’re simple to prepare and full of festive tastes. Perfect for holiday gatherings and special celebrations.
- Baking Tips: Helpful baking techniques and advice. Learn to fix common cookie mistakes and polish your baking skills.
Helpful Resources on Storage and Nutrition
Here are some handy resources for food storage and health tips.
- Food Storage and Freezing Tips: The USDA Food Safety Guide offers detailed tips. Epicurious also has freezing advice to prevent food waste.
- Nutrition Information: MyFitnessPal and CalorieKing offer easy ways to check calorie counts.
- Health and Wellness Guides: Balanced indulgence is key. The Mayo Clinic offers guides on healthy eating. Harvard Health also has balanced nutrition tips.
