Introduction
Peanut Butter Blossoms are a classic cookie that combines the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweet, creamy taste of chocolate. These cookies are a holiday favorite, often appearing on cookie trays and at family gatherings. But what makes Peanut Butter Blossoms so special? In this article, we’ll explore the history of these delightful treats, provide a step-by-step guide to making them, and discuss their nutritional values. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this guide will help you create the perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms.
The History of Peanut Butter Blossoms
Peanut Butter Blossoms have been a beloved cookie in American households since the 1950s. The recipe was first developed by Freda Smith, who submitted it to the Pillsbury Bake-Off contest in 1957. Although she didn’t win the grand prize, her recipe quickly gained popularity and has since become a staple in many homes. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is a match made in heaven, and the Hershey’s Kiss that sits atop each cookie adds a touch of elegance and sweetness.
Why Peanut Butter Blossoms Are a Holiday Favorite
Peanut Butter Blossoms are often associated with the holiday season, and for good reason. Their festive appearance, with the chocolate kiss peeking out from the center, makes them a perfect addition to any holiday cookie tray. Additionally, the warm, comforting flavors of peanut butter and chocolate are reminiscent of cozy winter evenings spent with family and friends. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday party or just as a treat for yourself, Peanut Butter Blossoms are sure to bring joy to any occasion.
How to Make Peanut Butter Blossoms: A Step-by-Step Guide
Making Peanut Butter Blossoms is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic baking skills, you can create these delicious cookies in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional granulated sugar for rolling
- 36 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
Instructions:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your cookies will bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Step 4: Add the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat it evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place the sugar-coated dough balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Step 8: Add the Hershey’s Kisses
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookies will soften the chocolate, creating that iconic blossom effect.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, they’re ready to serve!
Nutritional Information
If you’re curious about the nutritional values of Peanut Butter Blossoms, here’s a breakdown per cookie (based on a recipe that yields 36 cookies):
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 2g
Tips for Perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before you start baking. This ensures that they mix evenly with the other ingredients, resulting in a smoother dough.
- Don’t Overbake: Peanut Butter Blossoms should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center. Overbaking can result in dry, crumbly cookies.
- Unwrap the Hershey’s Kisses Ahead of Time: Having all your Hershey’s Kisses unwrapped and ready to go will make the process smoother once the cookies come out of the oven.
- Experiment with Different Peanut Butters: While creamy peanut butter is the traditional choice, you can experiment with crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
- Store Properly: Peanut Butter Blossoms can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze the dough or baked cookies for longer storage.
Variations of Peanut Butter Blossoms
While the classic Peanut Butter Blossoms recipe is hard to beat, there are several variations you can try to mix things up:
- Dark Chocolate Kisses: Swap out the traditional milk chocolate Hershey’s Kisses for dark chocolate ones for a richer, more intense flavor.
- White Chocolate Kisses: For a sweeter, creamier twist, use white chocolate Kisses instead.
- Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Blossoms: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Peanut Butter Blossoms: Substitute the butter with vegan margarine, use a flax egg, and choose dairy-free chocolate kisses to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
- Mini Peanut Butter Blossoms: Use mini Hershey’s Kisses and smaller dough balls to create bite-sized versions of these cookies.
Why Peanut Butter Blossoms Are Perfect for Any Occasion
Peanut Butter Blossoms are not just for the holidays. Their delightful combination of flavors makes them a great choice for any occasion, from birthday parties to afternoon tea. They’re also a hit with kids, making them a perfect treat for school events or bake sales. Plus, they’re easy to make in large batches, so you can always have some on hand for unexpected guests.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Blossoms are a timeless cookie that brings together the best of both worlds: the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter and the sweet, creamy taste of chocolate. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering or just as a treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to be a hit. With this guide, you now have all the information you need to make the perfect Peanut Butter Blossoms. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy one of the most beloved cookies of all time.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Blossoms are more than just a cookie; they’re a tradition. From their humble beginnings in the 1950s to their status as a holiday favorite today, these cookies have stood the test of time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, making Peanut Butter Blossoms is a rewarding experience that’s sure to bring joy to you and those around you. So why not give it a try? With this guide, you’re well on your way to creating the perfect batch of Peanut Butter Blossoms.