Introduction
Begin with a brief introduction to Peanut Butter Blossoms, highlighting their soft peanut butter cookie base with a signature chocolate kiss on top. Describe how they are a favorite holiday treat and a timeless classic loved by all ages.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
- A perfect balance of nutty peanut butter and rich chocolate.
- Soft and chewy texture with a delightful crunch from sugar coating.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- A great holiday favorite and perfect for gifting.
- Can be customized with different chocolates or fillings.
Origin of Peanut Butter Blossoms
- First created in 1957 by Freda Smith for the Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest.
- Originally called “Black-Eyed Susans” before becoming known as Peanut Butter Blossoms.
- Though it didn’t win the contest, it became a household favorite and a staple in American baking.
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- About 24 chocolate kisses
How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Prepare wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add egg, vanilla, and milk: Beat until smooth.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
- Shape dough: Roll into 1-inch balls and coat in granulated sugar.
- Bake: Place on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add chocolate: Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.
Cooking Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Tips:
- Use creamy peanut butter for a smooth dough.
- Press the chocolate kiss onto cookies right after baking for the best hold.
- Chill the dough for 15 minutes before rolling to prevent spreading.
- Use granulated sugar coating for a slight crunch.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Overbaking – Cookies will harden as they cool, so take them out when they are just set.
- Using natural peanut butter – It can make the dough too oily and change the texture.
- Skipping the sugar roll – This adds texture and enhances flavor.
- Pressing chocolate too early – The heat helps it stick but pressing too soon can cause melting.
Serving Tips
- Enjoy with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a cozy treat.
- Serve on a festive platter for holiday gatherings.
- Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer freshness.
- Try swapping chocolate kisses for mini peanut butter cups or dark chocolate for variety.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Peanut Butter – High in protein and healthy fats.
- Eggs – Provide essential vitamins and minerals.
- Dark Chocolate – Contains antioxidants and boosts heart health.
- Whole Wheat Flour (as a substitute) – Adds fiber and nutrients.
Interesting Facts About Peanut Butter Blossoms
- The recipe became a Pillsbury Hall of Fame classic despite not winning the original contest.
- They are often mistaken for thumbprint cookies, but the chocolate kiss makes them unique.
- Peanut butter and chocolate date back to Reese’s invention in the 1920s, making this combo a favorite for generations.
Summarized Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: About 24 cookies
Ingredients:
Flour, baking soda, salt, butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, vanilla extract, milk, chocolate kisses.
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Beat butter, peanut butter, and sugars, then add egg, vanilla, and milk.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Shape dough into balls, coat in sugar, and bake for 8–10 minutes.
- Press a chocolate kiss into each cookie and let cool.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Blossoms are a timeless, delicious cookie that brings together the best of peanut butter and chocolate. Whether for the holidays, special occasions, or everyday indulgence, these cookies are a must-try!
