Introduction
There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about classic Peanut Butter Blossoms. These delightful cookies combine the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter with a sweet, chocolate surprise just waiting to be discovered. Perfect for holiday gatherings, get-togethers, or simply satisfying your cookie cravings, each bite offers a comforting blend of textures and flavors. The gooey chocolate kiss nestled atop each cookie adds just the right amount of indulgence to this timeless treat. Let’s dive into making these irresistible cookies!
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar, for rolling
- 36 chocolate kisses, unwrapped
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 36 cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), creating a warm environment perfect for baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix together until the mixture is well combined and smooth, enveloping your kitchen in a delightful aroma.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet peanut butter mixture, stirring until just combined. You’ll want to avoid over-mixing to keep these cookies tender.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, each one a perfect little gem. Then, roll each ball in granulated sugar until fully coated, adding an extra sparkle to your treats.
- Place the coated balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown, signaling that warmth and sweetness are on the way!
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie, allowing it to melt ever so slightly into the warm dough.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely, where they will firm up and develop their full flavor.
Notes or Tips
- For a fun twist, consider trying different flavored chocolate candies like caramel or raspberry-filled kisses.
- If the dough feels sticky, chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes can make it easier to handle.
- These cookies store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, though they rarely last that long!
Cooking Techniques
Baking is both a science and an art, and these cookies are no exception. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in the precise mixing of ingredients. When incorporating the flour, be gentle; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Additionally, pressing the chocolate kiss into the cookies while they are still warm allows the chocolate to soften, creating that signature gooey center that everyone loves.
FAQ
- Can I use natural peanut butter? Yes, but note that natural peanut butter can have a different consistency. It may make the dough a bit drier, so adjust the flour accordingly.
- What can I substitute for eggs? You can use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg.
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter Blossoms are not just cookies; they’re a delightful experience, perfect for sharing with friends and family or just enjoying with a cup of coffee on a cozy afternoon. With their combination of rich peanut butter and a sweet chocolate surprise, they have a special place in the hearts of many home bakers. Baking these brings warmth to your kitchen and joy to your taste buds. Enjoy the baking adventure!