Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies: The Ultimate Recipe for Sweet Nostalgia

There’s something timeless about a warm, freshly baked batch of peanut butter kiss cookies—those soft, chewy cookies topped with a perfectly melted chocolate kiss. Known also as peanut butter blossoms, this peanut butter blossom recipe is an all-time favorite in my household, especially around the holidays. Whether it’s the creamy peanut butter, the rich chocolate kiss, or the melt-in-your-mouth texture, there’s a little magic in every bite. Peanut butter blossoms are a classic holiday cookie that combines the richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate. These cookies are a staple of Christmas cookie exchanges and holiday gatherings, and their unique shape and flavor make them a standout among other sweet treats. In this article, we’ll explore the essential ingredients, steps, and tips for making the perfect peanut butter blossoms.

Today, I’m excited to share my ultimate peanut butter kiss cookie recipe with you, complete with tips, variations, and even a gluten-free option. These cookies come together in a snap, and I promise they’ll be a hit at any gathering (or just with a cup of tea on a cozy afternoon!). Ready to bake?

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive in, let’s gather our ingredients. You may already have most of these in your pantry, making this recipe even more accessible.

Main Ingredients:

• Peanut Butter: 1 cup of creamy peanut butter or natural peanut butter. Using natural peanut butter adds a slight nuttiness and is a great source of protein and healthy fats.
• Granulated Sugar: ½ cup, plus more for rolling the cookie dough balls.
• Brown Sugar: ½ cup for extra richness and a chewy texture.
• Flour: 1 ¾ cups. You can also substitute with oat flour for a gluten-free version.
• Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon to help the cookies rise.
• Baking Powder: 1 teaspoon for added fluffiness.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon for a hint of warmth.
• Egg: 1 large egg to bind everything together.

You can also use sunflower seed butter as a substitute for creamy peanut butter if you have allergies, or try almond butter for an extra layer of flavor. For a fun twist, consider using peanut butter cups instead of chocolate kisses.

Chocolate Choices:

• Milk Chocolate Kisses: Classic, or swap in dark chocolate kisses if you prefer a richer flavor.

Optional Ingredients:

• Maple Syrup: A great natural sweetener if you’re looking to reduce the refined sugar content.
• Almond Butter, Cashew Butter, or Sunflower Seed Butter: Substitute for peanut butter if you’re catering to allergies or prefer a different nut butter.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies

This recipe is pretty simple, but the results are divine! The key to these cookies is in the little details, so follow each step to ensure you get the perfect batch.

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them.

Step 2: Mix the Peanut Butter Mixture

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to blend until creamy. The combination of sugars with peanut butter creates a smooth, dreamy texture that makes these cookies irresistible.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate medium bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add the flour mixture to the peanut butter mixture, mixing until the dough forms. If your dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour to make it easier to handle.

Pro Tip: For a gluten-free version, use oat flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix. I’ve tried both, and they work wonderfully!

Step 4: Shape the Dough

1. Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball.
2. Roll each dough ball in additional granulated sugar for a light crunch on the outside.
3. Place on your prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.

Step 5: Bake and Add the Chocolate Kiss

1. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until the edges are just light golden brown.
2. Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie once they’re out of the oven. The cookie will slightly crack around the edges, which is the perfect look!

Step 6: Cool

Let the cookies cool on a cooling rack for 5–10 minutes. It’ll be hard to wait, but trust me, it’s worth it. Cooling helps the chocolate set and makes each bite that much better.

Tips and Variations for Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies

Try Alternative Nut Butters

Not a fan of peanut butter or have an allergy? Swap it out for almond butter or cashew butter. Sunflower seed butter is also a great option and provides a similar texture, with a slightly earthier flavor.

Go Gluten-Free

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with oat flour. Certified gluten-free oats can be ground into oat flour for a wholesome twist that keeps the texture chewy.

Healthier Options

1. Sugar Alternatives: If you’re looking to cut back on refined sugars, try substituting with maple syrup or a sugar-free maple syrup alternative.
2. Protein Boost: Add a tablespoon of protein powder to the flour mixture for an extra energy boost. This is especially great if you’re making cookies for a post-workout snack!

Storage Tips

These cookies stay fresh and chewy for days if stored in an airtight container. They’re also freezer-friendly if you’d like to bake in advance.

Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies Nutrition & Health Benefits

Nutritional Value (per cookie):

• Calories: ~150
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fat: 8g
• Fiber: 1g

Health Benefits:

• Protein: Thanks to peanut butter, these cookies provide a dose of plant-based protein, making them a bit more satisfying than your average cookie.
• Healthy Fats: The natural fats from peanut butter (or any nut butter) contribute to heart health and sustained energy levels.
• Moderate Sugar Content: These cookies can be made lower in refined sugar by using natural sweeteners like maple syrup. That way, you’re getting a treat with a touch of wholesome sweetness.

While these cookies are still a treat, they offer a balance of nutrients that make them a slightly healthier choice compared to traditional chocolate chip cookies.

Similar Peanut Butter Treats to Try

1. Peanut Butter Oatmeal Balls: If you’re in the mood for something quick, try these no-bake oatmeal balls. Just mix peanut butter, quick oats, a dash of protein powder, and a touch of maple syrup. Roll into balls, and you have a healthy snack for the whole week!
2. PB Oat Balls and Energy Bites: For a nutritious on-the-go treat, mix peanut butter with certified gluten-free oats, a bit of nut butter like almond or cashew, and chocolate chips. Perfect for a mid-morning energy boost.
3. Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies with Dark Chocolate: Switch things up by using dark chocolate kisses or chunks of chocolate. Dark chocolate is a great antioxidant source and pairs beautifully with the rich peanut butter flavor.

Troubleshooting Tips

While this recipe is straightforward, here are a few quick fixes for common issues:

• Dough too sticky? Add a little more flour to help shape it.
• Too crumbly? Add a bit more peanut butter for moisture.
• Chocolate melting too much? Place the cookies in the refrigerator for a few minutes after adding the chocolate to set it faster.

And of course, don’t be afraid to taste-test as you go along. Finding that perfect balance of peanut butter flavor is what makes these cookies so special!

Conclusion

Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and get baking! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, these peanut butter kiss cookies are a must-try. Not only are they fun to make, but the results are truly delicious.

Give this recipe a go, and let me know how your cookies turn out in the comments below. Share your tips, variations, or any fun twists you added to make this recipe your own! And don’t forget to snap a picture to show off your masterpiece—tag me on social media so I can see (and maybe feature) your creation.

Happy baking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delightful aroma of peanut butter and chocolate!

FAQ

1. Can I make these peanut butter kiss cookies gluten-free? Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with oat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for a chewy, gluten-free version. 2. How do I store peanut butter kiss cookies? Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. 3. What can I substitute for peanut butter? Try almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter for a unique flavor twist and peanut-free option. 4. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe? Yes, you can use maple syrup or sugar-free maple syrup to lower the sugar content while keeping the cookies deliciously sweet! 5. Are peanut butter kiss cookies healthy? While still a treat, they provide protein and healthy fats, especially if you use natural peanut butter and oat flour.