When the holiday season rolls around, nothing brings family together quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies drifting from the kitchen. One cookie that never fails to evoke smiles and warm hearts is the classic Peanut Butter Blossom. Imagine the comforting blend of creamy peanut butter meeting the rich sweetness of chocolate in every delightful bite. These festive treats are not just ordinary cookies; they offer a magical balance of sweet and salty flavors, perfect for spreading Christmas cheer.
With their quick and easy preparation, these Peanut Butter Blossoms cater to bakers of all skill levels, making them an ideal choice for creating cherished memories with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking to indulge in a homemade treat, this recipe promises to delight. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s whip up a batch of these whimsical cookies that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Why are Classic Christmas Cookies a must?
Irresistible flavors: The pairing of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate creates an experience that is both comforting and indulgent.
Quick preparation: Whip up a batch in no time, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Versatile options: Easily switch to dark chocolate or peppermint Kisses for a festive twist.
Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike, these cookies are sure to steal the show at any gathering.
Memory-making: Baking these treats together is a delightful way to create lasting holiday memories with family.
Classic Christmas Cookies Ingredients
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For the Cookie Dough
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability for the cookies; no substitutions recommended.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and a light crunch when rolled; coconut sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
• Light Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a subtle caramel flavor; feel free to use dark brown sugar for a richer taste.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps create a tender texture; for a dairy-free option, consider using vegan butter or coconut oil.
• Creamy Peanut Butter – Gives the cookies their beloved nutty flavor; natural peanut butter can also work but ensure it’s well-stirred to avoid crumbliness.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients together for a moist cookie; swap for a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water) to make it vegan.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile and makes every bite extra delightful; substitutions aren’t recommended.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture; it’s essential for achieving that perfect puffiness.
• Salt – Balances out the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor; it’s crucial for flavor control. -
For the Topping
• Milk Chocolate Hershey’s Kisses – Adds a sweet chocolate center to the cookie; consider using dark chocolate or peppermint-flavored Kisses for a festive twist.
How to Make Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that warms up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
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Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter until it’s light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until everything is combined well.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined—avoid over-mixing!
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Shape and Roll: Scoop out the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar and place them 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets to allow room for spreading.
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Bake: Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. As soon as you remove them from the oven, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie.
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Cool and Set: Allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture.
Optional: For an extra festive touch, drizzle some melted chocolate or sprinkle crushed peppermint on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Classic Christmas Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Peanut Butter Blossoms in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, store the cookies in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Just make sure to seal them tightly to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze your cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Layer them with baking parchment to avoid sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, let the cookies thaw at room temperature, or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to revive their delightful softness.
Tips for the Best Classic Christmas Cookies
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Always ensure your baking ingredients, especially baking soda and butter, are fresh for the best results in your classic Christmas cookies.
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Avoid Over-Mixing: After combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to dense cookies instead of the fluffy ones you want.
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Sugar Coating: Roll the dough balls generously in granulated sugar before baking. This adds a lovely crunch and enhances the sweet surface of your classic Christmas cookies.
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Check Doneness Carefully: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be slightly puffy and golden around the edges yet soft in the middle. Removed too soon? Don’t worry, they will set while cooling.
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Storage Tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for months, making these classic Christmas cookies a perfect make-ahead treat.
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms are perfect for home cooks looking to streamline their holiday baking! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; just cover it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can scoop and roll the dough balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply let the dough come to room temperature before pressing in the Hershey’s Kisses and baking as directed. This makes it easy to whip up warm, delicious cookies on busy days, delivering that beloved homemade taste without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms?
These delightful cookies elevate any festive gathering, providing a sweet touch that complements a variety of dishes and drinks.
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Warm Cocoa: The rich, creamy chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with the peanut butter cookies, making each bite feel like a hug in a mug.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai enhance the comforting notes of peanut butter, creating a cozy flavor experience perfect for chilly evenings.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream offers a creamy contrast to the chewy cookies, adding a delightful temperature and texture difference.
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Fruit Salad: A side of fresh, colorful fruit provides a refreshing burst of flavor, balancing the sweetness of the cookies while helping to cleanse the palate.
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Hot Apple Cider: The aromatic spices in hot cider harmonize with the holiday spirit of your cookies, making a perfect pairing for festive gatherings.
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Pecan Pie Bars: These decadent bars introduce a rich, nutty flavor that complements the peanut butter, amplifying the sweetness for a truly indulgent dessert table.
Indulge your senses with these pairings that harmonize beautifully, creating memorable moments around your holiday table.
Classic Christmas Cookies Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to personalize your Peanut Butter Blossoms for your holiday celebrations!
- Dark Chocolate: Swap milk chocolate Kisses with dark chocolate for a richer, deeper flavor that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
- Peppermint Kisses: Use peppermint-flavored Hershey’s Kisses to add a refreshing minty twist, perfect for festive gatherings.
- Nut-Free: Substitute creamy peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a delicious nut-free alternative that still delivers on taste.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies accessible for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Choco-Peanut Swirl: Mix in chocolate chips with the peanut butter dough for an extra chocolatey, gooey delight that adds a textural twist.
- Crunchy Twist: Fold in chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to introduce a satisfying crunch that beautifully complements the softness of the cookie.
- Coconut Bliss: Add unsweetened shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical flair that pairs unexpectedly well with those flavors.
- Spicy Surprise: Sprinkle a dash of cayenne pepper into the dough for a subtle hint of heat that surprises and delights in every bite.
Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to select ripe ingredients for Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Absolutely! For the best Peanut Butter Blossoms, choose fresh ingredients. Look for creamy peanut butter without added sugars or stabilizers, as natural options can be more crumbly. Ensure your eggs are fresh with no unpleasant odors, and check the expiration date on your baking powder and baking soda to ensure optimal puffiness.
How should I store my Peanut Butter Blossoms, and how long will they last?
Very good question! To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, but ensure they are sealed tightly to prevent dryness. Trust me, these cookies are so good; they won’t last long at room temperature anyway!
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Can I freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms? If so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing these cookies is a great way to preserve their deliciousness. To freeze, place fully cooled Peanut Butter Blossoms in a single layer in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to revive their delightful softness.
What if my dough is too crumbly or sticky?
Great question! If your dough seems too crumbly, it might be due to not enough moisture—try adding a teaspoon of milk to bring it together. If it’s too sticky, incorporate a bit more flour until it reaches a manageable consistency. Also, remember that chilling the dough for 20-30 minutes can help it firm up and make rolling easier.
Are there any common allergies I should be aware of when making Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Yes! The main ingredients to watch out for include peanuts, gluten (from the flour), and eggs, which are allergens for some people. For a nut-free alternative, consider using sunflower seed butter. Additionally, you can swap traditional flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to gluten-intolerant guests. Always exercise caution based on the specific dietary needs of those you’re serving!
Classic Christmas Cookies: Irresistible Peanut Butter Blossoms
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, then mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Scoop out the dough and roll it into 1-inch balls, rolling each ball in granulated sugar and placing them 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie as soon as you remove them from the oven.
- Allow the cookies to sit on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
