Irresistible Chewy Peanut Butter Blossoms with Hershey’s Kisses Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the kitchen. Chewy Peanut Butter Blossoms with Hershey’s Kisses are the perfect treat for cozy evenings at home, family gatherings, or festive holidays. These cookies are soft, sweet, and peanut buttery, crowned with a classic chocolate kiss that melts in your mouth. The combination of the rich peanut butter dough and the silky chocolate center has been a holiday favorite in American homes for generations, making these treats both nostalgic and irresistible.

Inspired by traditions passed down from grandmothers and cookie swaps at community events, this recipe captures the essence of home-baked goodness. The beauty of Peanut Butter Blossoms lies not just in their flavor but also in their simplicity—they’re fun to make with kids, perfect for gifting, and sure to be the star of any cookie tray. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a spontaneous baking session, these cookies bring warmth, sweetness, and smiles.

Ingredients

• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup packed brown sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Additional granulated sugar, for rolling

• About 36 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.

2. Mix dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. This step ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed for consistent texture.

3. Cream butter and sugars. In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and smooth. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes.

4. Add egg, milk, and vanilla. Beat in the egg, followed by the milk and vanilla extract, until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure all ingredients are incorporated.

5. Combine dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender and chewy.

6. Shape the dough. Roll dough into 1-inch balls. Place them in a small bowl of granulated sugar and roll to coat completely. This adds a subtle sweetness and slight crunch to the exterior.

7. Bake the cookies. Place the sugar-coated dough balls on prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will look slightly underbaked—that’s perfect for a chewy texture.

8. Add the Hershey’s Kisses. Immediately after removing cookies from the oven, press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The residual heat will soften the chocolate slightly without melting it completely.

9. Cool and set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the chocolate centers set properly and the cookies hold their shape.

10. Serve and enjoy. Arrange on a festive platter, store in an airtight container, or wrap as gifts for friends and family.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: About 36 cookies

Notes

• Peanut butter selection: Creamy peanut butter works best for a smooth, chewy texture, but crunchy peanut butter can be used for added bite.

• Cookie size: Adjust the size of dough balls depending on preference; larger cookies may require an extra 2–3 minutes of baking time.

• Make-ahead tip: Dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, which enhances flavor and makes rolling easier.

• Storing cookies: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months; thaw before serving.

• Chocolate alternatives: While Hershey’s Kisses are classic, other small chocolates like mini peanut butter cups or chocolate chips can be substituted for variation.

Why These Cookies Are So Special

Chewy Peanut Butter Blossoms with Hershey’s Kisses are more than just cookies—they’re a celebration of flavor and nostalgia. The soft, chewy peanut butter dough contrasts beautifully with the sweet, slightly firm chocolate, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Unlike many other cookies that can dry out quickly, these remain tender thanks to the careful combination of butter, peanut butter, and sugars.

The simple process of rolling the dough in sugar before baking adds a subtle crunch and a glistening finish that makes them look as delightful as they taste. Pressing the chocolate kiss into the warm cookie is a satisfying step, both visually and for the mouthwatering aroma it releases. These cookies are often the ones that disappear first from the holiday tray, leaving smiles and requests for seconds behind.

Tips for Perfect Cookies Every Time

1. Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, egg, and peanut butter are at room temperature for smooth mixing and even baking.

2. Don’t overbake: For chewy cookies, underbake slightly. They will continue to cook on the hot baking sheet after being removed from the oven.

3. Even cookie sizes: Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform baking, so all cookies finish at the same time.

4. Use parchment paper: This prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Festive platters: Arrange your Peanut Butter Blossoms with sprigs of evergreen or small ornaments for holiday displays.

• Cookie swaps: Perfect for school or workplace cookie exchanges—they’re universally loved and easy to transport.

• Gift packaging: Layer them in decorative tins or boxes with wax paper for a homemade gift that friends and family will treasure.

• Pairing drinks: These cookies pair beautifully with a cold glass of milk, hot chocolate, or even a cup of coffee for a cozy snack.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe to be gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. These blends are designed to mimic the texture and consistency of regular flour, making them perfect for cookies. Keep in mind that gluten-free flours sometimes absorb moisture differently, so you may need to slightly adjust the amount of flour or milk to get the perfect dough consistency. Additionally, some gluten-free flours can result in a slightly denser cookie, but the chewy peanut butter center and sugar-coated exterior will still make these cookies irresistible. For best results, look for a blend that already contains xanthan gum, as it helps give structure and elasticity to your cookies. This way, you won’t lose that soft, chewy texture that makes Peanut Butter Blossoms so special.

2. How do I prevent the Hershey’s Kiss from sinking too much into the cookie?
To ensure the Hershey’s Kiss stays perfectly centered, press it gently into the cookie immediately after removing it from the oven. The key is to take the cookies out while they are still soft but slightly set around the edges. Avoid pushing the chocolate too far into the cookie; the heat will soften the chocolate slightly and allow it to adhere naturally without collapsing. This method ensures the Kiss holds its shape while creating a beautiful presentation. If the cookies cool too much before adding the chocolate, the Kiss won’t stick properly, so timing is essential. This simple step guarantees each cookie looks just like the ones you remember from holiday baking trays.

3. Can I use natural peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter works, but there are a few considerations. Natural peanut butter is oilier than processed varieties, which can sometimes make the dough too soft. To prevent this, stir the peanut butter well before measuring, and consider chilling it slightly so it’s easier to work with. You may also want to add an extra teaspoon of flour to help the dough hold together. Despite these small adjustments, natural peanut butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies, making them even more flavorful and wholesome.

4. How can I make these cookies ahead of time?
These cookies are perfect for planning ahead. The dough can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator, which also helps develop deeper flavors. When ready to bake, roll the dough balls in sugar and proceed as directed. Fully baked cookies freeze beautifully as well. Store them in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, and you’ll have freshly baked Peanut Butter Blossoms anytime. This makes them ideal for holidays, special occasions, or last-minute treats.

Conclusion

Chewy Peanut Butter Blossoms with Hershey’s Kisses are a timeless cookie that captures the essence of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. With their soft, peanut buttery centers, crisp sugar-coated edges, and iconic chocolate topping, they are perfect for any occasion—from cozy family nights to holiday celebrations and thoughtful homemade gifts. The simplicity of the recipe makes it accessible to bakers of all skill levels, while the results are undeniably impressive.

Whether you’re introducing a new generation to a classic treat or simply indulging in the joy of baking, these cookies are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Try this recipe today, and experience the magic of a homemade Peanut Butter Blossom straight from your oven.

Irresistible Chewy Peanut Butter Blossoms with Hershey’s Kisses Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: About 36 cookies 1x

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Description

There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cookies filling your kitchen. Chewy Peanut Butter Blossoms with Hershey’s Kisses are a classic treat that brings warmth and joy to any occasion—whether it’s a cozy evening at home, a festive holiday gathering, or a simple baking day with family. These cookies feature a soft, chewy peanut butter base, coated lightly in sugar, and crowned with a chocolate Hershey’s Kiss that melts just enough to create the perfect bite.

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Ingredients

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• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup packed brown sugar

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Additional granulated sugar, for rolling

• About 36 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.

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

• In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and smooth, about 2–3 minutes.

• Beat in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined, scraping down the sides as needed.

• Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

• Roll dough into 1-inch balls and coat each ball in granulated sugar.

• Place the dough balls on prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden but centers are slightly soft.

• Immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie after removing from the oven.

• Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

• Serve, enjoy, or store in an airtight container.

Notes

• Creamy peanut butter works best, but crunchy can be used for added texture.

• Slightly underbake for a chewy center; cookies will continue cooking on the baking sheet.

• Dough can be refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.

• Fully baked cookies freeze well for up to three months; thaw before serving.

• Alternative chocolates like mini peanut butter cups or chocolate chips can replace Hershey’s Kisses for variation.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8–10 minutes per batch

Michelle Davis