Introduction
There’s something undeniably nostalgic about the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, especially when it comes to the classic Peanut Butter Blossoms. These delightful cookies are a beloved treat, perfect for holiday gatherings, school parties, or simply when you need a sweet pick-me-up. The rich, nutty flavor of the creamy peanut butter paired with the melty chocolate kisses makes each bite a burst of joy. Let’s get started on creating these sweet treasures!
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 24 milk chocolate kisses, unwrapped
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Yield: 24 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake to perfection.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is beautifully blended together.
- Add the large egg and continue to mix until it’s fully incorporated into the dough, creating a rich and creamy texture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the peanut butter mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, making sure to coat each one in granulated sugar for that extra sparkle and sweetness.
- Place the sugar-coated balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and lightly golden, filling your kitchen with a heavenly aroma.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each warm cookie. The heat will melt the chocolate slightly, creating a delightful topping.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, preserving their chewy texture.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the dough. If you prefer dark chocolate, feel free to swap the milk chocolate kisses for their darker counterpart. And remember, these cookies are even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to make a double batch!
Cooking Techniques
The keys to perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms are in the mixing and the baking. Make sure to mix the dough thoroughly so all the ingredients meld together, resulting in a smooth texture. When baking, keep an eye on the cookies to prevent over-baking; it’s best to take them out while they still look slightly underdone for a soft and chewy center.
FAQ
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough balls and bake them straight from frozen. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I store the cookies?
Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate them to extend their freshness even longer.
Conclusion
There you have it! Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms that bring warmth and sweetness to any occasion. With their delightful combination of peanut butter and chocolate, these cookies are sure to find a special place in your heart (and your cookie jar). Enjoy them with a glass of milk, share with friends, or savor them all to yourself — they’re simply irresistible!