These Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms are the quintessential holiday cookie—soft, thick, and packed with that irresistible peanut butter flavor. They are incredibly straightforward to prepare, making them perfect for busy holiday baking schedules. Don’t skip the quick freezer step; it keeps the chocolate from melting into the warm cookies.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus chill time)
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes (plus chill time)
- Servings: 24 cookies
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic favorite with a peanut butter twist.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Perfect make-ahead dough—chill it for up to 3 days.
- Freezing ensures beautifully set chocolate kisses every time.
Ingredients
- 1 and 1/4 cups (156g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled): Provides the structure for the cookies. Ensure precise measuring.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise and spread properly.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances flavors by balancing the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature: Creates the creamy base. Salted butter can be used; just reduce added salt.
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar: Adds moisture and sweetness with a hint of molasses flavor.
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps with crisp edges.
- 1 large egg, at room temperature: Binds the cookie ingredients for the right texture.
- 3/4 cup (about 185g) creamy peanut butter: Main flavor component. Sub with almond butter if needed.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds depth to the overall flavor.
- 24 chocolate kiss candies, unwrapped: Iconic topping for these blossoms.
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Used to roll the dough balls for a sweet coating.
- OR: 1/4 cup (50g) green sanding sugar and 1/4 cup (50g) red sanding sugar: Adds festive color if desired.
How to Make It
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. This ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed, preventing any spots from rising unevenly in the cookies.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter for 1 minute on high until it’s creamy. Gradually add in the brown and granulated sugars, beating on medium-high speed until the mixture is thick and smooth, about 2 minutes. This process aerates the butter-sugar mix, which is crucial for soft, fluffy cookies.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the egg, beating until it’s just combined, about 1 minute. Then, mix in the peanut butter and vanilla extract. Thoroughly combining these ingredients ensures the cookies are rich and flavorful.
Step 4: Combine and Chill the Dough
On low speed, slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. The dough will be soft and creamy. Cover and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, up to 3 days, to firm up and enhance flavor.
Step 5: Roll and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats. Roll the chilled dough into balls, about a heaping tablespoon each, and coat them in the remaining granulated or sanding sugar. Arrange them about 3 inches apart on the prepared sheets.
Step 6: Add the Chocolate Kiss
Bake for 11–13 minutes, until the tops show slight cracks. Remove from the oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then gently press a chocolate kiss into each cookie center. Quickly transfer the cookies to plates and freeze for 10 minutes to set the chocolate.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare and refrigerate the dough up to 3 days ahead. This makes it easier to bake fresh cookies whenever you’re ready, without the rush.
What if I don’t have creamy peanut butter?
Crunchy peanut butter can work in a pinch, but expect a slightly different texture and taste. Avoid natural peanut butter, as it doesn’t incorporate well.
How should I store these cookies?
Store the baked cookies at room temperature in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 1 week, making them a convenient treat to prepare in advance.
