If you are a fan of the irresistible duo of chocolate and peanut butter, you are in for a treat with this Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with rich peanut butter flavor, perfectly balanced by a deep cocoa undertone, all crowned with a melty chocolate kiss right in the center. Whether for a festive occasion, a cozy afternoon snack, or sharing with loved ones, this recipe brings joy in every bite and makes baking feel like a warm hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet star-quality ingredients is the first step toward cookie perfection. Each one plays a vital role, from the fluffy texture to the delicious balance of sweet and salty notes, ensuring every bite delights your taste buds.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Offers classic sweetness and helps create that lovely, tender crumb.
- Light brown sugar (â…“ cup): Adds moisture and a subtle caramel depth to enrich the flavor.
- Unsalted butter (10 tablespoons, softened): Brings richness and a buttery base for the cookie dough.
- Creamy peanut butter (10 tablespoons): The star ingredient that infuses each cookie with creamy, nutty goodness.
- Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors with a sweet, aromatic warmth.
- One large egg: Binds the dough and contributes to the soft, chewy texture.
- All-purpose flour (1¼ cups): Provides structure while keeping the cookies tender.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder (¼ cup): Adds rich chocolate flavor and deep color without overpowering the peanut butter.
- Baking soda (¾ teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise just enough to be soft and fluffy.
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Works alongside baking soda to create the perfect texture.
- Kosher salt (¾ teaspoon): Balances sweetness and highlights the chocolate and peanut butter.
- Raw or Turbinado sugar (optional, for coating): Gives an extra hint of crunch and sparkle to the cookie surface.
- Chocolate Kisses (55 pieces): The classic finishing touch, melting tantalizingly atop each cookie.
How to Make Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and position two racks to the upper-middle and lower-middle levels to bake multiple sheets evenly. Line three baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies don’t stick and cleanup is quick—a little prep that makes a huge difference.
Step 2: Cream the Sugars and Butter
In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, combine granulated and brown sugars on low speed for a few seconds. Adding softened butter, peanut butter, and vanilla next, beat them together until the mixture is light, smooth, and fluffy—about three minutes. This creaming step is essential for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 3: Add the Egg
Crack in one large egg and continue mixing until the egg is fully incorporated. This helps bind everything together while contributing to the cookie’s tender crumb.
Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. The cocoa gives the dough its luscious chocolate color and flavor, while the leaveners ensure your cookies have just the right rise and chew.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet
Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough soft and tender. If the dough feels too soft to handle, pop it in the fridge for an hour—this step helps the flavors meld and makes rolling easier.
Step 6: Shape and Sugar the Dough
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls; using a 1½-inch scoop and dividing the dough helps with consistency. If you want an extra touch of sparkle and crunch, roll each ball through raw or Turbinado sugar before placing them on your parchment-lined sheets two inches apart for plenty of room to spread.
Step 7: Bake and Top with Chocolate Kisses
Bake for 9 to 10 minutes until the edges just begin to firm up. Take the cookies out and immediately press a chocolate kiss gently but firmly into the center of each cookie. Expect the cookies to crack slightly around the edges—a charming sign of just-right baking.
Step 8: Cool Your Masterpieces
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes to set the chocolate, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures your cookies hold their shape and the chocolate settles beautifully.
How to Serve Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a light dusting of sea salt over the chocolate kisses after baking to enhance the peanut butter’s richness. Alternatively, add a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a festive, elegant look that makes these cookies extra special for gatherings.
Side Dishes
Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk, creamy vanilla ice cream, or even a cup of rich espresso. The combination brings out the flavors perfectly and makes dessert or snack time feel like a cozy celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the cookies on a rustic wooden platter alongside fresh berries for a beautiful contrast in color and flavor. Or package them in charming cellophane bags tied with twine for thoughtful homemade gifts that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll maintain their soft texture and rich flavor for up to one week—perfect if you want to savor them gradually.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freezing, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months and can be thawed at room temperature for a delicious treat anytime.
Reheating
For that freshly baked warmth, pop cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or heat briefly in a 300°F oven. This softens the chocolate kiss to that perfect melty texture that makes these cookies so irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, you can! Crunchy peanut butter will add a bit more texture to the cookie dough and provide delightful little peanut pieces, but creamy peanut butter is traditional for smooth, tender cookies.
What can I substitute for the chocolate kisses?
If you don’t have chocolate kisses on hand, try mini chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, or even wrapped caramels for a different but equally tasty twist.
Why do the cookies crack around the edges when I press the chocolate kiss?
The cracking is a sign that the cookies are baked just right—firm around the edges but soft inside. Pressing the chocolate kiss causes the dough to give way slightly, creating that charming, signature look.
Can I make this dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! Refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before rolling and baking. This resting time actually enhances the flavor and makes the dough easier to handle.
Is it necessary to roll the dough in raw sugar?
Not at all, but coating the dough balls in raw or Turbinado sugar adds a lovely crunch and a sparkling finish. It’s an optional step that makes the cookies a bit more festive.
Final Thoughts
Making the Chocolate Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe is like creating a little magic in your kitchen—a perfect blend of flavors and textures that always wins hearts and smiles. Give this recipe a try and watch how it quickly becomes a beloved favorite for any occasion or a simple everyday treat. Enjoy every bite!
