Festive Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. Festive Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies capture that feeling perfectly, combining the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweet, melty chocolate center that makes every bite irresistible. These cookies are ideal for cozy winter evenings by the fireplace, holiday gatherings with friends and family, or as a thoughtful homemade gift that will brighten someone’s day.

Inspired by classic American holiday baking traditions, Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies have been a staple in kitchens for generations. The tradition of placing a chocolate kiss on top of a soft peanut butter cookie dates back to the early 20th century, and it’s easy to see why they’ve remained a beloved treat. This recipe keeps that nostalgic charm while ensuring a soft, chewy texture and perfectly balanced sweetness, making it a must-try for cookie lovers of all ages.

Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup packed brown sugar

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups semisweet chocolate kisses, unwrapped

• Additional granulated sugar for rolling

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Roll the balls lightly in granulated sugar to coat.

7. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.

8. Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the center still looks slightly underbaked.

9. Remove from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The cookie will crack slightly around the edges – this is normal.

10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies

Notes

• For a chewier texture, slightly underbake the cookies and let them finish setting on the baking sheet.

• Use room-temperature butter and egg to ensure proper creaming and even baking.

• If you prefer a crunchier cookie, bake for an extra 1–2 minutes, but keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.

• These cookies freeze well. Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Festive Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies aren’t just about flavor—they’re about creating memories. The combination of a soft, chewy peanut butter base with the chocolate center makes each bite a little celebration. The ease of preparation and simple ingredients make them accessible for bakers of all skill levels, while the nostalgic design keeps the holiday spirit alive.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, sending cookies as gifts, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a warm beverage, these cookies are a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. Children love rolling the dough into sugar-coated balls, and adults will appreciate the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors.

Tips for Perfect Festive Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

• Use high-quality chocolate kisses: The chocolate centerpiece is what makes these cookies special, so invest in good-quality chocolate for the best flavor.

• Don’t skip the sugar coating: Rolling the dough in granulated sugar before baking adds a slight crunch and prevents the cookies from sticking to the pan.

• Experiment with mix-ins: If you’d like, add a handful of mini chocolate chips or crushed nuts to the dough for added texture and flavor.

• Storage and freshness: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer-term storage, layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Variations to Try

• Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossoms: Mix cocoa powder into the dough for a chocolate-flavored peanut butter cookie.

• Festive Sprinkles: Roll the dough balls in colorful holiday sprinkles for a cheerful appearance.

• Peanut Butter White Chocolate Blossoms: Swap the semisweet chocolate for white chocolate kisses for a sweeter variation.

• Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped peanuts or almonds for added crunch and flavor depth.

Baking as a Family Tradition

One of the best parts of baking Festive Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies is sharing the experience. Kids love helping roll the dough and place the chocolate kisses on top. The activity itself can become a cherished tradition that brings family and friends together, making the holidays or cozy evenings extra special. Beyond taste, the process of creating something homemade brings warmth, laughter, and satisfaction to your kitchen.

Pairing Ideas

These cookies pair beautifully with a variety of beverages. For a classic approach, enjoy with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee. They also complement hot chocolate or tea, especially during chilly winter nights. For holiday gatherings, consider serving them on a festive platter alongside other cookies and treats for a colorful, inviting dessert spread.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter can absolutely be used in this recipe. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. Natural peanut butter typically contains less stabilizers than store-bought creamy peanut butter, which means it may make the cookie dough slightly denser and stickier. To avoid this, stir the peanut butter thoroughly before measuring so that the oils are evenly incorporated. If the dough feels too soft or sticky, adding an extra tablespoon of flour can help achieve the proper consistency without compromising the final texture. Keep in mind that natural peanut butter may slightly alter the flavor of the cookies, giving them a more robust, nut-forward taste. Some bakers even find that natural peanut butter adds a pleasant, homemade flavor that pairs beautifully with the chocolate kiss on top.

2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! One of the great things about Festive Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies is their versatility when it comes to timing. You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to handle but can also enhance the flavor, resulting in richer, more pronounced peanut butter notes. For longer storage, you can freeze the dough balls individually on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. When ready to bake, you can bake them directly from frozen—simply add one or two extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they are perfectly cooked through. This method makes it easy to have fresh, warm cookies whenever you want, without needing to make the dough from scratch each time.

3. How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking?
The key to keeping your cookies perfectly shaped is proper preparation. Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, as melted butter can cause cookies to spread excessively. Chilling the dough for 15–20 minutes before baking also helps the cookies hold their shape. Rolling the dough balls in granulated sugar before placing them on the baking sheet adds a subtle structure to the surface, which helps the cookie maintain its form. Spacing the cookies at least 2 inches apart on the baking sheet is also important to prevent them from merging together as they bake.

4. Can I use dark chocolate or milk chocolate instead of semisweet chocolate kisses?
Absolutely! Dark chocolate offers a richer, slightly bitter contrast to the sweet, nutty flavor of the peanut butter base, which some people prefer for a more balanced taste. Milk chocolate, on the other hand, adds extra sweetness and a creamy texture that enhances the indulgent experience. You can even experiment with seasonal flavors like mint or caramel-filled chocolates to give these cookies a unique twist. The type of chocolate you choose can slightly alter the flavor profile, but all options work beautifully with this classic recipe.

Final Thoughts

Festive Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are more than just a dessert—they’re a nostalgic, heartwarming experience. From the soft, chewy texture to the chocolate-topped finish, they delight the senses and bring a smile to every face. This recipe is simple enough for everyday baking yet special enough for holidays and celebrations.

Baking these cookies allows you to tap into the joy of homemade treats while creating a timeless classic that family and friends will love. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or explore the variations, you’re sure to end up with cookies that are both delicious and memorable.

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: approximately 24 cookies 1x

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Description

There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked cookies filling the kitchen, especially during the holiday season or on a cozy evening at home. Festive Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies combine the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with a melty chocolate center, making them an irresistible treat for both kids and adults. Inspired by classic American holiday traditions, these cookies have been a favorite for generations, often enjoyed during family gatherings, festive celebrations, or simply as a comforting snack. The combination of a soft, chewy cookie and a chocolate kiss on top brings nostalgia and joy with every bite, making this recipe a must-try for anyone who loves homemade sweets.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup packed brown sugar

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 2 cups semisweet chocolate kisses, unwrapped

• Additional granulated sugar for rolling

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Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy.

• Beat in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

• Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.

• Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.

• Place dough balls on prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.

• Bake 8–10 minutes, until edges are lightly golden but centers still look slightly underbaked.

• Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. Allow to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes.

• Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Notes

• For chewier cookies, slightly underbake and let them finish setting on the baking sheet.

• Use room-temperature butter and egg for even mixing and proper texture.

• For crunchier cookies, bake 1–2 minutes longer but watch carefully to prevent overbaking.

• Cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze dough balls for up to 3 months.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes

Michelle Davis