Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are an iconic American treat beloved by generations for their delectable combination of rich peanut butter and melt-in-your-mouth chocolate.

These cookies first rose to fame in the middle of the twentieth century, when home bakers were seeking sweets that offered both comforting simplicity and a touch of indulgence.

The classic look, featuring a crackled, golden peanut butter cookie with a luscious chocolate kiss at its center, has become synonymous with holiday baking and family gatherings alike.

The origins of Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are closely tied to a Pillsbury Bake-Off contest in the 1950s, where the original recipe quickly won hearts and a permanent spot in cookbooks across the country.

Today, these cookies are much more than a nostalgic dessert; they represent the perfect marriage of flavors and textures. Every bite is a balance of sweet, salty, and creamy, making them a crowd-pleaser at parties, bake sales, and celebrations year-round.

Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced pastry chef, mastering Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies is both straightforward and deeply rewarding. With a recipe that combines everyday pantry staples, these cookies can be whipped up at a moment’s notice.

You’ll find that the distinct aroma of fresh-baked peanut butter cookies crowned with glossy chocolate is impossible to resist, making Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies a timeless favorite in any dessert spread. Discover the secrets to making the very best batch and share the love with friends and family.

Ingredients

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1 large egg
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
36 unwrapped chocolate kisses

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
In a medium bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add the egg, milk, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat well until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Do not overmix.
Shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in the extra granulated sugar to coat.
Place the sugar-coated dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Bake for 8-10 minutes until the cookies are lightly golden and beginning to crack on top.
Immediately after removing from the oven, gently press one unwrapped chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie until the edges crack slightly.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing the chocolate to set.

Nutritional Information

Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are a delectable treat, but it’s important to be mindful of their nutritional profile, especially if you’re monitoring your intake of calories, sugars, or fats. Each cookie typically contains around 110-130 calories, depending on the exact size and the amount of chocolate used.

The main calorie sources stem from the peanut butter, butter, and chocolate kiss topping. Overall, each serving offers approximately 6 grams of fat—primarily from the peanut butter and butter—of which about 2 grams are saturated fats.

Protein content is about 2-3 grams per cookie due to the inclusion of peanut butter and eggs, making them slightly more satisfying than some other traditional cookies. Carbohydrates per cookie are in the range of 14-16 grams, with about 8-10 grams from sugars.

Each cookie offers a small amount of dietary fiber, thanks to the peanut butter and flour. While Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are not designed as a health food, they do provide a comforting chew and a bit of energy for a midday snack or after-meal treat.

The key with these cookies—as with all desserts—is moderation. Serving them as part of a balanced diet allows you to enjoy the sweet, nutty flavor without overindulging. Those with allergies should note the presence of peanuts, dairy, eggs, and gluten.

For anyone seeking to adjust the nutritional content, consider using a reduced-fat peanut butter or swapping in whole wheat flour for a boost of fiber. Regardless of the variation, Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies can be enjoyed as an occasional sweet treat within a healthy lifestyle.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are an incredibly versatile treat that pairs well with a variety of beverages. Classic choices include a cold glass of milk—whole, skim, or non-dairy alternatives all complement the sweet, nutty flavors beautifully.

A hot cup of coffee or rich hot chocolate provides a comforting contrast to the cookies’ indulgent chocolate center.

For those seeking a more mature pairing, consider serving Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies alongside a light dessert wine such as Moscato or a smooth tawny port, both of which highlight the cookie’s nutty and chocolate notes.

Tea lovers might enjoy a robust black tea or a subtly sweet chai, which accentuates the spice and depth of peanut butter. For a festive twist, serve with a peanut butter-infused milkshake or an iced mocha.

Each of these beverage choices enhances the overall enjoyment and makes Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies the centerpiece of any dessert spread.

Cooking Tips and Variations

For the very best results when making Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies, a few expert tips go a long way. Always start with room temperature ingredients, especially the butter and peanut butter, ensuring a smooth, even dough that will bake uniformly.

Fresh baking soda is crucial for achieving the signature crackle on the surface. When measuring ingredients, it’s best to spoon the flour into your measuring cup for accuracy and avoid packing it down, which can make the cookies dense.

Rolling each dough ball in granulated sugar isn’t just for sweetness—it adds a subtle crunch and helps achieve the classic sparkle. If you love bolder flavors, try using crunchy peanut butter for added texture or stir in a pinch of cinnamon for a warm twist.

To elevate the chocolate layer, experiment with flavored chocolate kisses, such as caramel or dark chocolate, to give your Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies an innovative edge. Another variation involves substituting the chocolate kiss for a chocolate chunk or a mini peanut butter cup.

Those with dietary restrictions can swap traditional flour for a 1-to-1 gluten-free blend or use natural peanut butter for a lower-sugar option; just keep in mind that natural peanut butters may change the texture slightly.

Always be careful not to overbake the cookies, as they should remain soft in the center when you remove them from the oven. For gifting and special occasions, consider dipping half the cookie in melted chocolate and sprinkling with chopped peanuts.

With these small adjustments, you can seamlessly customize Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies to suit any taste, occasion, or dietary preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies is easy and delightful, making them an excellent choice for everything from family gatherings to festive holiday trays. Arrange cookies on a festive platter with a few extra chocolate kisses scattered around for added visual appeal.

For holiday parties, consider stacking the cookies in a decorative jar tied with a ribbon as a charming edible centerpiece. Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies make wonderful homemade gifts; simply layer the cookies in a box lined with tissue paper and include a personalized note for a heartfelt touch.

When serving at a bake sale or potluck, group the cookies in batches of six and secure them in clear bags to showcase the beautiful blossom design. For a dessert buffet, pair the cookies with complementary treats like brownies, bar cookies, and miniature cupcakes to create an inviting array.

Hosting a themed event or children’s party? Let kids decorate their own cookies with assorted chocolate kiss flavors or colored sugar before baking.

For a more gourmet presentation, drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the finished cookies, or dip the edges in finely chopped peanuts for added crunch and visual interest.

Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies can also be served slightly warm for a melty center perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. However you choose to present them, these cookies are sure to be a highlight at any event.

Health Benefits

Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies, while primarily a dessert, do offer a few health benefits thanks to their key ingredients. Peanut butter is a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which support heart health when enjoyed in moderation. It also provides protein, which can help curb hunger and support muscle repair.

The eggs in the recipe supply high-quality protein and essential vitamins such as B12 and D. Though the recipe contains sugar and chocolate, both of which are best enjoyed in moderation, the occasional indulgence in cookies like these can fit into a balanced lifestyle.

To increase the nutritional value, you can use natural peanut butter without added sugars and opt for whole wheat flour to boost fiber content. Even with the sweet elements, Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies contribute to emotional wellness by adding joy and celebration to special occasions.

For those with nut allergies, consider a sunflower seed butter alternative, which offers similar nutritional positives. Remember, the key to healthy enjoyment is balance: savor your Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies as a portion-controlled treat, and pair them with nutritious meals and snacks throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies?

Yes, both the dough and the baked cookies freeze well. Freeze dough balls (before rolling in sugar) on a baking sheet, then transfer to a sealed container for up to three months. Baked cookies can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature and, if desired, briefly warm in the oven.

Can I use natural or crunchy peanut butter?

Absolutely! Both natural and crunchy peanut butter can be used, but note that natural varieties may produce a slightly denser, less sweet dough since they often lack added sugar and stabilizers. Crunchy peanut butter adds a wonderful texture to the finished cookie.

How do I prevent the chocolate kiss from melting?

After pressing the chocolate kiss into the hot cookies, allow them to cool undisturbed. If baking in a warm kitchen, you can chill the tray in the refrigerator for a few minutes to help set the chocolate more quickly and prevent melting.

Are these cookies safe for nut allergies?

Traditional Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies contain peanuts and are not suitable for those with nut allergies. However, you can substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter and use nut-free chocolate kisses for a safer alternative.

Why did my Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies come out flat?

Flat cookies can result from very soft butter, over-creaming the dough, or using warm baking sheets. Always start with cool baking trays, correctly measure flour, and use butter that is just softened but not melted.

Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are a timeless treat that combines the comforting flavor of peanut butter with the irresistible allure of chocolate. Their classic blossom shape, soft and chewy texture, and delightful taste have made them a mainstay at holidays, bake sales, and family celebrations for over half a century. Whether made ahead and frozen, dressed up for special occasions, or enjoyed fresh from the oven, Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies fit every scene perfectly. With the right tips, creative variations, and thoughtful pairings, you can easily customize these cookies to suit your preferences or dietary needs. The tradition of baking and sharing Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies is a wonderful way to bring people together. By following this carefully crafted recipe, you ensure that every batch will be soft, flavorful, and beautifully presented. So preheat your oven, gather your loved ones, and indulge in the simple pleasure of homemade Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies—a sweet, beloved staple that will continue to delight for generations to come.