Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate guide on classic Peanut Butter Blossoms! If you’re looking for the best peanut butter blossoms recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This iconic cookie combines the rich flavors of peanut butter with a sweet chocolate kiss on top, creating a delightful treat that is loved by many. In this article, we will explore the history of this beloved cookie, share tips on how to make them soft and delicious, and provide variations to suit different dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These easy classic peanut butter blossoms are a staple during the holiday season but can be enjoyed year-round. The combination of the nutty peanut butter flavor and the decadent chocolate kiss makes them irresistible to both kids and adults. Additionally, this recipe can be adapted to accommodate various dietary preferences, including gluten-free, vegan, and sugar-free options.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting in the kitchen, these peanut butter blossom cookies with Hershey kisses are simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Their soft and chewy texture, along with the nostalgic flavors, will make them a favorite in your cookie repertoire.
For those looking for a traditional peanut butter blossoms holiday cookie that brings back memories of baking with loved ones, this recipe is sure to deliver. The ease of preparation and the delicious outcome make these cookies a go-to for any occasion.
With the right ingredients and a few expert tips, you can create the perfect batch of peanut butter blossoms that are sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details of this timeless recipe and discover how to make the best peanut butter blossoms at home.
Ingredients
To make these delectable peanut butter blossoms without shortening, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar for rolling
– 36 chocolate Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling on top
Feel free to substitute ingredients like natural peanut butter for a healthier alternative or gluten-free flour for those with dietary restrictions. These easy swaps allow you to customize the recipe to suit your needs without compromising on flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
5. Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in granulated sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
7. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. For an extra touch, sprinkle sea salt on top of the Hershey’s Kisses before serving for a sweet and salty flavor contrast.
These simple steps will guide you through the process of creating perfect peanut butter blossoms with crunchy peanut butter that are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.
Expert Tips for Success
– Ensure that your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugars.
– Do not overmix the dough to prevent tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
– If the cookie dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
– Press the Hershey’s Kisses gently into the cookies as soon as they come out of the oven to ensure they adhere properly.
– Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and maintain their soft texture.
Variations and Substitutions
For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, there are several ways to customize this classic recipe:
– Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make gluten-free peanut butter blossoms.
– Vegan Alternative: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for vegan peanut butter blossom cookies.
– Sugar-Free Variation: Use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in place of granulated sugar for sugar-free peanut butter blossoms.
By making these simple ingredient swaps, you can enjoy the same great taste of traditional peanut butter blossoms while catering to your specific dietary needs.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful peanut butter blossoms with sea salt are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet treat. Pair them with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that never disappoints.
For a festive touch, serve these cookies on a decorative platter with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or cocoa powder for added flair. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in a festive tin or box tied with a ribbon.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze peanut butter blossoms?
A: Yes, you can freeze baked peanut butter blossoms for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Q: Why did my cookies turn out dry?
A: Overbaking or using too much flour can result in dry cookies. Be sure to follow the recipe measurements and bake until just set.
Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture and nuttiness to your cookies.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, classic Peanut Butter Blossoms are a timeless treat that brings joy to all who indulge in them. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or opt for a variation to suit your dietary needs, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household.
With the right ingredients, a bit of love, and attention to detail, you can create the perfect batch of peanut butter blossoms that will have everyone coming back for more. So why wait? Get your baking tools ready and whip up a batch of these delightful cookies today!
Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms are iconic cookies that combine the rich flavors of peanut butter with a sweet chocolate kiss on top. This recipe yields soft and chewy cookies that are perfect for any occasion, easy to make, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar for rolling
- 36 chocolate Hershey's Kisses, unwrapped
- Optional: Sea salt for sprinkling on top
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
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Add the egg and vanilla extract, beat until well combined.
-
Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
-
Shape dough into 1-inch balls, roll in granulated sugar, place on baking sheet 2 inches apart.
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Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden. Immediately press a Hershey's Kiss into the center of each cookie.
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Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Optional: Sprinkle sea salt on top of Hershey's Kisses before serving.
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Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Nutrition Facts
