Peanut Blossom Cookies are the perfect combination of soft, chewy peanut butter cookies and creamy Hershey’s Kisses. These classic treats have been a favorite for generations, making an appearance at holiday cookie trays, bake sales, and family gatherings. The contrast of the warm, slightly crisp edges and the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate center makes them truly irresistible.
If you're looking for a simple yet crowd-pleasing dessert, this recipe is a must-try. Follow along for all the details on how to bake the best Peanut Blossoms with perfect texture and flavor.
Ingredients
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect cookie:
- 46-51 unwrapped Hershey’s Kisses – The signature chocolate center that gives these cookies their classic look and flavor.
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies, ensuring they hold their shape.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and achieve a light, chewy texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and moisture to the cookies. Softened butter ensures even mixing.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and helps with the cookie's crisp edges.
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar – Adds moisture and a slight caramel-like flavor for a chewy texture.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
2. Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and prevents clumping.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy—this helps create the perfect cookie texture.
4. Add the Egg and Vanilla
Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. This step adds richness and enhances the cookie’s flavor.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies dense instead of soft.
6. Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into walnut-sized balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
7. Make Indentations
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them slightly apart. Use your thumb or the back of a spoon to make a small indentation in the center of each cookie.
8. Add the Hershey’s Kisses
Gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each dough ball.
9. Bake the Cookies
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown and the Hershey’s Kisses appear slightly melted.
10. Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!
Pro Tips for the Best Peanut Blossoms
✔ Use softened butter – Cold butter won’t cream properly, and melted butter can make the dough too soft. Room temperature butter creates the perfect texture.
✔ Don't overmix the dough – Overmixing can develop too much gluten, resulting in dense cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.
✔ Check your baking time – Every oven is different, so start checking around the 9-minute mark. The cookies should be set but still soft in the center.
✔ Experiment with flavors – Try substituting almond extract for vanilla for a unique twist. You can also use peanut butter chips, dark chocolate Kisses, or white chocolate Kisses for variety.
✔ Chill the dough for extra chewy cookies – If you have time, refrigerate the dough for 20-30 minutes before rolling. This helps control spread and enhances flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Peanut Blossom Cookies pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk, hot chocolate, or a cup of coffee. They are great for holiday cookie exchanges, gifting, or simply enjoying with family and friends.
For a festive twist, roll the dough balls in colored sugar before baking to add a fun, sparkly touch!
Final Thoughts
These soft and chewy Peanut Blossom Cookies are a must-bake classic that never goes out of style. They are easy to make, incredibly delicious, and perfect for any occasion. With their rich peanut butter base and smooth chocolate center, they are guaranteed to be a hit!
Try this recipe today and enjoy the perfect balance of buttery, sweet, and chocolatey goodness in every bite. Happy baking!