there’s something undeniably magical about the holidays-the twinkle of lights, the warmth of gathering with loved ones, and the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the air.among the myriad festive treats that grace holiday tables, Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms hold a special place in many hearts. These iconic cookies, with their tender peanut butter base crowned by a glistening chocolate kiss, offer a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that delight both young and old. in this sweet holiday treat guide, we’ll explore the timeless charm of Peanut Butter Blossoms, share tips to perfect your batch, and inspire you to make these nostalgic goodies a star of your seasonal celebrations.
classic Peanut Butter Blossoms capture the essence of festive warmth and nostalgia in every bite. These soft, chewy cookies crowned with a glossy Hershey’s Kiss have been delighting holiday tables since their creation in the 1950s. Originating from the iconic Pillsbury bake-Off contest, this timeless treat brings together the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with a hint of vanilla and a sparkling sugar crust, making them irresistibly festive and universally loved.
Prep and Cook Time
- Readiness Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Yield
Approximately 36 cookies
Difficulty Level
Easy - Perfect for beginner bakers and a fun holiday project for all ages
Selecting the perfect Ingredients for Ultimate flavor and Texture
choosing the right ingredients is your first step towards baking exemplary classic Peanut Butter Blossoms. Opt for creamy peanut butter over chunky for that smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, unless you prefer a slight crunch in every bite. Use fresh, all-purpose flour, sifted to keep the dough light and tender. Don’t skimp on quality granulated sugar and fresh large eggs, as these components build structure and sweetness.The key to the cookie’s signature crust is rolling the dough balls in turbinado or coarse sugar before baking, which adds a subtle sparkle and pleasant bite.
Step by Step Baking Tips for Soft and Chewy Cookies
- Prep your ingredients ahead: Bring eggs and peanut butter to room temperature to ensure smooth blending without overmixing.
- Combine the dry ingredients separately: In a bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly mixed-this avoids uneven leavening.
- Cream the butter and sugars thoroughly: Beat the butter and peanut butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This aerates the batter for a tender crumb.
- Incorporate eggs and vanilla: Add each egg one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in pure vanilla extract for depth.
- Fold in dry ingredients gently: Mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies; overworking develops gluten and makes cookies dense.
- Roll evenly sized dough balls: Use a small cookie scoop for uniformity.Roll in coarse sugar to provide that signature sparkle and slight crunch.
- Bake on parchment paper or silicone mats: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes-watch closely for just-set edges to maintain softness.
- Add Hershey’s Kisses immediately after baking: Press gently in center of cookies while still warm so the chocolate sets perfectly without cracking.
- Cool thoroughly: Transfer cookies to a wire rack and allow to cool before serving, guaranteeing the perfect chewy texture.
Creative Variations and Festive Serving Suggestions
Elevate your Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms by experimenting with delightful variations that add unexpected flair to this nostalgic treat. Swap the standard hershey’s Kiss for flavored chocolates like dark chocolate sea salt or mint kisses to create seasonal twists. Incorporate mini chocolate chips or chopped roasted peanuts into the dough for added texture and visual appeal. For a gluten-free holiday treat, substitute all-purpose flour with a high-quality almond flour blend.
When it comes to presentation, plate these cookies on festive platters lined with red and green parchment paper, or arrange them with sprigs of evergreen for a classic holiday tableau. Pair with a chilled glass of cold milk, a warm cup of spiced cocoa, or a robust coffee for a heartwarming snack or dessert. Garnish your serving tray with edible gold dust or a light dusting of powdered sugar snow to enhance their seasonal charm and visual delight.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Coarse sugar (turbinado or sanding sugar), for rolling
- 36 Hershey’s Kisses chocolate candies (unwrapped)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes) using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture, beating well until smooth and well incorporated.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients with a spatula, mixing just until no streaks of flour remain. Avoid overmixing for tender cookies.
- roll dough into 1-inch balls using a cookie scoop. Roll each ball in coarse sugar until fully coated and place them about 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden but centers remain soft.
- Remove from oven and immediately press one Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Be gentle to avoid cracking.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Room temperature ingredients: Using softened butter and room temperature eggs ensures smooth blending and consistent texture.
- Don’t overbake: Soft and chewy is the goal-bake just until edges are set to avoid dry cookies.
- Cookie size consistency: Use a cookie scoop for even size and baking time.
- Make ahead: Dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. let thaw and come to room temp before baking.
- substitution: Natural peanut butter can be used, but may yield a denser cookie. Adjust sugar slightly based on sweetness preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful peanut butter cookies as part of a holiday dessert platter alongside sugar-dusted snickerdoodles and peppermint bark. For an indulgent pairing, set out a small bowl of caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping. Garnish your cookie display with fresh cranberries, pine sprigs, or edible gold stars to amplify the festive atmosphere.Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms also make charming, edible gifts when packaged in decorative tins or cellophane bags tied with satin ribbons.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 cookie) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 110 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
For more seasonal cookie ideas,check out our Holiday Cookie Recipes collection. To learn more about the history of peanut butter, visit the History Channel’s Peanut Butter History for interesting insights.
Q&A
Q&A: Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms – A Sweet Holiday treat Guide
Q1: What makes Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms a holiday favorite?
A: These cookies blend the nostalgic warmth of peanut butter with the irresistible charm of a chocolate kiss nestled in the center. Their perfect balance of chewy, crumbly, and melty textures, combined with a festive look, makes them a heartwarming treat that evokes cozy holiday memories.
Q2: How do you achieve that iconic “blossom” shape?
A: The secret lies in rolling the dough into smooth balls, baking until just set, then gently pressing a chocolate kiss into the center while the cookie is still warm. This gentle “blooming” action cracks the top slightly,revealing that signature flower-like appearance.
Q3: can you substitute the classic Hershey’s Kiss with other chocolates?
A: Absolutely! While Hershey’s Kisses are customary, using dark chocolate, peppermint-flavored kisses, or even mini peanut butter cups can add delightful twists. Each variation lends a unique flavor profile, keeping the classic charm but offering a fresh holiday surprise.
Q4: What’s the key to the perfect peanut butter cookie base?
A: The cookie should be soft and tender, which is achieved by balancing peanut butter, sugar, and a touch of flour. Using both brown and granulated sugar adds depth of flavor and subtle chewiness, while a pinch of baking soda helps with lift and texture.
Q5: How do you ensure the cookies stay soft after baking?
A: Don’t overbake! Pull the cookies out when they’re just set around the edges but still soft in the center. Cooling them on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack helps retain moisture. Storing them in an airtight container also keeps them fresh and chewy.
Q6: Are Peanut Butter Blossoms kid-friendly to make?
A: Definitely! Kids love rolling dough into balls and pressing the chocolates in. Plus, the speedy baking time means they get to enjoy their creations almost immediately. It’s a fun, hands-on holiday activity that can get the whole family involved.
Q7: How can you dress up Peanut Butter Blossoms for holiday gifting?
A: Consider stacking them in festive tins layered with parchment paper, tying ribbons around batches, or even gifting them in mason jars with the recipe tucked inside. Adding a sprinkle of holiday-themed sugar or crushed candy canes on top before baking can also give a jolly twist.
Q8: Can Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms be made gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just keep an eye on texture, as some blends can change the dough’s consistency slightly. Adding a bit more peanut butter or moisture can definitely help maintain softness.
Q9: What’s the cultural history behind Peanut Butter Blossoms?
A: Created in the 1950s, Peanut butter Blossoms were popularized thru a national cookie contest sponsored by Hershey’s. Their instant success cemented them as a classic American holiday cookie, symbolizing warmth, family, and festive cheer.
Q10: Any pro tips for baking multiple batches during the busy holiday season?
A: Prep your dough ahead and chill it for at least an hour-this makes rolling easier and enhances flavor. Use parchment-lined baking sheets for quick cleanup, and keep an eye on oven hotspots to ensure even baking across batches. Most importantly, bake with love and share generously!
Closing Remarks
As the scent of freshly baked peanut butter blossoms fills your kitchen, you’re not just making cookies-you’re crafting a cherished holiday tradition. These sweet, chewy delights with their signature chocolate kiss centers have stood the test of time, bringing warmth and joy to gatherings year after year. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a curious novice, these classic treats offer a simple yet satisfying way to celebrate the season’s sweetest moments.So dust off your mixing bowls and embrace the magic of peanut butter blossoms-because every holiday deserves a little extra sweetness wrapped in nostalgia.
