Soft & Chewy Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe

There’s something truly special about a batch of Soft & Chewy Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies fresh from the oven. These golden, nutty cookies crowned with a melty chocolate kiss are the kind of treat that brings instant nostalgia. Whether it’s for a cozy winter afternoon, a holiday cookie swap, or just a sweet craving after dinner, these cookies never fail to impress.

This recipe takes inspiration from the classic version that’s been cherished for decades—often found on family Christmas trays or tucked into lunchboxes. The balance between creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates an irresistible combination that feels both familiar and indulgent. The best part? You don’t need to wait for a special occasion to make them. With simple ingredients and easy steps, these cookies are perfect for baking any time you need a comforting homemade treat.

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Why You’ll Love These Peanut Butter Blossoms

These cookies aren’t just another peanut butter dessert—they’re the perfect blend of texture, taste, and nostalgia. Here’s why they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your home:

1. Soft and chewy texture: Every bite melts in your mouth while still holding that delightful cookie structure.

2. Classic flavor pairing: The creamy peanut butter base and chocolate kiss topping create that timeless taste combination everyone loves.

3. Easy to make: No complicated techniques or fancy ingredients. Just a few pantry staples and a little mixing magic.

4. Perfect for any occasion: Great for holidays, bake sales, or a simple weekend baking session with family.

5. Kid-approved: Children love rolling the dough in sugar and adding the chocolate kiss on top—it’s an interactive baking experience for everyone.

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these Soft & Chewy Peanut Butter Blossoms:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)

• ½ cup packed light brown sugar

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter

• 1 large egg

• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• About 36 milk chocolate kisses, unwrapped

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Directions

1. Preheat the oven:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.

2. Combine dry ingredients:
   In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the butter and sugars:
   In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and peanut butter together using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy—about 2–3 minutes.

4. Add egg and vanilla:
   Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated and the mixture looks fluffy.

5. Combine wet and dry ingredients:
   Gradually add the flour mixture to the peanut butter mixture. Mix just until combined. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

6. Shape the cookies:
   Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie, roll each portion into a smooth ball, and then roll it in granulated sugar to coat.

7. Bake:
   Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are puffed.

8. Add the chocolate kiss:
   Immediately press one chocolate kiss into the center of each hot cookie. The edges will crack slightly, which gives them their signature look.

9. Cool completely:
   Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. As they cool, the chocolate will soften slightly before firming up again.

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Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Total Time

25 minutes

Yield

About 36 cookies

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Notes

• For extra chewy cookies: Slightly underbake the cookies by a minute and let them finish setting on the baking sheet.

• Avoid dry cookies: Don’t overmix the dough. Stop once the flour is incorporated.

• Storage tip: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Make-ahead dough: Roll the cookie dough balls, freeze them on a tray, then store them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen—just add an extra minute of baking time.

• Use good peanut butter: Classic creamy peanut butter like Jif or Skippy works best. Natural varieties with oil separation can change the texture.

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Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms

1. Chill the dough (optional but helpful):
If your kitchen is warm or your dough feels too soft, refrigerate it for 20–30 minutes. This keeps the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.

2. Timing is key for adding the chocolate:
Add the chocolate kiss immediately after baking while the cookies are still hot. This helps the chocolate adhere perfectly to the top.

3. Customize your sweetness:
For a lighter sweetness, you can roll the dough in a mix of granulated sugar and a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle flavor twist.

4. Double the batch for gifting:
These cookies look beautiful in treat boxes or cookie tins—perfect for holidays, neighbors, or teachers.

5. Reheat for that fresh-baked taste:
Pop a cookie in the microwave for 10 seconds to recreate that warm, melty chocolate center.

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Variations

• Crunchy Peanut Butter Blossoms:
  Use crunchy peanut butter for a delightful texture and a nutty bite in every cookie.

• Chocolate-Dipped Blossoms:
  Instead of a kiss on top, dip cooled cookies halfway in melted chocolate and let them set.

• Mini Blossoms:
  Use mini kisses and smaller dough balls to create bite-sized versions for parties or snack platters.

• Dark Chocolate Blossoms:
  Replace milk chocolate kisses with dark chocolate ones for a deeper, richer flavor.

• Peanut-Free Version:
  Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter if you need a nut-free option—it offers a similar texture and flavor.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overbaking: These cookies can turn dry quickly. Remove them when the tops are just set and edges are lightly golden.

2. Using natural peanut butter: While great for spreading, it’s not ideal for baking—it can cause oily or crumbly cookies.

3. Skipping the sugar roll: Rolling in sugar isn’t just decorative—it adds a slight crispness to the outer layer that balances the chewy interior.

4. Adding the chocolate too late: If the cookies cool too much before adding the kiss, it won’t stick properly.

5. Not measuring flour correctly: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off—packing it too tightly leads to dry dough.

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The History Behind Peanut Butter Blossoms

The Peanut Butter Blossom Cookie has been a classic since the 1950s when it first appeared in a Pillsbury Bake-Off contest. Originally created by Freda Smith of Ohio, the recipe was a hit because it combined America’s two favorite flavors—peanut butter and chocolate—into one irresistible cookie.

Since then, it’s become a staple across generations, especially during the holidays. Families often bake them as part of their Christmas cookie lineup, though they’re loved year-round. The iconic “blossom” shape, with its cracked surface and shiny chocolate center, makes it instantly recognizable on any cookie platter.

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How to Store and Freeze

Storing:
Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Layer them between sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Freezing baked cookies:
Once cooled, freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 20 minutes.

Freezing unbaked dough:
You can freeze rolled dough balls (without the sugar coating). When you’re ready to bake, roll in sugar, place on a baking sheet, and bake directly from frozen.

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Pairing Ideas

Pair your Peanut Butter Blossoms with:

• A cold glass of milk: The classic combination that balances sweetness and creaminess.

• Hot cocoa: Perfect for wintertime snacking and cozy evenings.

• Coffee or cappuccino: A bold pairing that complements the nutty flavor.

• Vanilla ice cream: Crumble the cookies over ice cream for a fun dessert twist.

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How to Make Them Extra Special

1. Add sparkle: Sprinkle a bit of coarse sugar on top before baking for a shimmery finish.

2. Use seasonal chocolate: Swap the chocolate kiss for holiday-themed chocolates (like hearts for Valentine’s Day).

3. Peanut butter drizzle: Melt a little peanut butter and drizzle over cooled cookies for an elegant touch.

4. Peanut butter lovers’ version: Stir in mini peanut butter chips before baking for double peanut flavor.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s not recommended. Natural peanut butter often separates and can change the dough’s texture, making cookies too crumbly or oily. Stick with classic creamy peanut butter for best results.

2. What can I do if my cookies spread too much?
If your dough is too warm, chill it for 20–30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape.

3. How do I keep the chocolate kisses from melting completely?
Press them into the cookies right after baking, then quickly transfer the cookies to a cool surface or refrigerate them for a few minutes to set the chocolate.

4. Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute your favorite gluten-free flour blend (one that’s a 1:1 replacement) for all-purpose flour. Check the consistency of the dough—it should be soft, not sticky.

Bringing It All Together

There’s a reason Soft & Chewy Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies have stood the test of time. They’re simple, comforting, and bursting with nostalgic flavor. Each bite captures that perfect balance of soft peanut butter cookie and rich chocolate center—a timeless pairing that feels like a warm hug from the past.

Whether you’re baking a batch for the holidays, sharing them at a party, or simply treating yourself after a long day, these cookies never disappoint. They’re a reminder that sometimes the best desserts are the ones that have been loved for generations.

So, grab your mixing bowl, unwrap those chocolate kisses, and let the sweet aroma of freshly baked peanut butter blossoms fill your kitchen. Once you take that first bite, you’ll know why this recipe continues to be a classic in homes everywhere.

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