I still remember the first time I realized that Peanut Butter Blossoms could be both nourishing and delicious in a way that felt simple, not fussy. It was a cold afternoon, perfect cookie weather, and I wanted to bake something for a casual get-together with friends. Normally, Peanut Butter Blossoms felt like the classic holiday cookie that came out once a year, all decked out and a little intimidating with their sugary, chocolate-topped charm. But that day, I decided to play around with making a version that fit my real-life approach to eating—where tasty treats can be part of an everyday routine, without guilt or fancy ingredients.
I started with a basic peanut butter cookie base, focusing on soft peanut butter cookies that weren’t over-sweetened. I swapped out some of the sugar for a touch of honey and used natural peanut butter. Then, instead of tons of milk chocolate, I gently pressed a few chocolate kiss cookies right into the center for a perfect chocolate top that didn’t overpower but complemented the rich peanut butter flavor. The outcome was a joyful surprise: these Peanut Butter Blossoms felt balanced and doable, a cookie I could actually reach for midweek without second-guessing.
This discovery shifted my thinking about holiday cookies and chocolate-topped cookies alike. I learned that Peanut Butter Blossoms don’t have to be reserved for special occasions—they can easily become part of everyday life. It’s that kind of flexibility I cherish in my kitchen—a little indulgence that doesn’t feel complicated or restrictive. If you’ve been on the lookout for a recipe that strikes that balance, you’re in for a treat. I love sharing this with fellow home cooks who want a simple, nourishing cookie that fits into their week, not just their holiday plans. Ready to get cozy with some easy, feel-good Peanut Butter Blossoms? Let’s dive in together.
What You’ll Need:

- 1 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or chunky works; I prefer creamy for soft peanut butter cookies)
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed (you can swap half for coconut sugar to cut down on refined sugar)
- 1 large egg (for a vegan twist, try a flax egg—I’ve done it with good results!)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (regular baking soda, found in your baking aisle)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure vanilla gives the best flavor but imitation also works)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness and enhances peanut flavor)
- 36 chocolate kiss cookies (the classic Hershey’s Kisses are perfect, but any chocolate kiss cookies work here)
This Peanut Butter Blossoms ingredient list is intentionally simple—because good food doesn’t need to be complicated. If you’re in a pinch and don’t have chocolate kiss cookies, you can use small chunks of chocolate bars or even mini chocolate chips. I keep a bag of these handy in the pantry for quick baking moments. Plus, this recipe keeps costs low by using pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
For those busy days, here’s a little prep shortcut: measure and mix your dry ingredients ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake your Peanut Butter Blossoms, just mix in the wet ingredients and roll. Leftovers? Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, or freeze them for longer. I like to add an extra sprinkle of sea salt on top before pressing in the chocolate kiss cookies—it boosts the flavor and feels like a little kitchen treat just for me.
Let’s Make It Together!
Ready for some real-life cooking? Here’s my go-to method for making Peanut Butter Blossoms that are soft, chewy, and mess-free. In my kitchen, this Peanut Butter Blossoms batch usually takes about 30 to 35 minutes from start to finish, which makes it perfect for weeknight baking or a weekend treat.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple step saves you from sticky situations later!
- Mix peanut butter, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl. I like to use a sturdy spoon or an electric mixer to get it smooth and creamy. You’ll see the sugar dissolve a bit, which is a good sign.
- In a separate bowl, combine baking soda and salt. Add this to your peanut butter mixture and mix until just combined. Don’t overwork the dough—that’s the secret to keeping the cookies soft.
- Scoop out the dough by the tablespoonful and roll into balls. To keep it mess-free, I wet my hands slightly—it helps the dough from sticking. Place the dough balls about two inches apart on your baking sheet.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Your Peanut Butter Blossoms should look set and have just started to crack on top. Don’t overbake—they stay soft and chewy when pulled out on time.
- Immediately press a chocolate kiss cookie into the center of each warm cookie. The kiss should gently sink in without melting completely. This gives you that signature look and the perfect chocolate-topped cookie vibe.
- Let the Peanut Butter Blossoms cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This pause helps the cookies firm up just enough while keeping them soft inside.
While your Peanut Butter Blossoms are baking, it’s perfect time to set the table or even prepare a simple side, like a cup of chamomile tea or a cozy hot chocolate. The smell of peanut butter and chocolate together should fill your kitchen—it’s such a comforting, welcoming scent that feels like a warm hug.
A little kitchen tip I learned: if your dough looks dry or crumbly, add a teaspoon of milk or water. It’s all about feel. And if your Peanut Butter Blossoms spread too thin, chill the dough in the fridge for 15 minutes before baking—that gives you a bit more control over their shape.
How I Love to Serve This!
I love that Peanut Butter Blossoms work so well for all kinds of occasions. Whether it’s a casual weekday snack or part of a holiday cookie platter, these chocolate-topped cookies always get a happy welcome.

For weeknights, I often pair Peanut Butter Blossoms with a simple cup of homemade yogurt dipped in honey or fresh fruit slices. The protein from peanut butter and the subtle sweetness of fruit make it a nicely balanced treat that feels more like a snack than dessert.
At holiday get-togethers, these cookies shine among a tray of classic holiday cookies. Their soft peanut butter cookie base and melty chocolate kiss cookie tops create a nostalgic feel that everyone enjoys. Presentation-wise, I sometimes stack Peanut Butter Blossoms in a pretty tin lined with parchment paper for gifting. Simple but so thoughtful.
Leftovers turn into delightful ice cream sandwiches when paired with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. I’ve also experimented with seasonal variations—adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of chili powder for a little warmth and kick. My friends always ask for the recipe when I bring these to potlucks; it’s that reliable crowd-pleaser.
If you like this, you might love my take on peanut butter treats like the old-fashioned peanut butter pie or peanut butter cookie bites — both soft and rich in flavor for your next baking adventure.
Common Questions Answered
Got questions about Peanut Butter Blossoms? I’ve been in your kitchen shoes, so here are some answers based on what fellow home cooks, including myself, have asked over time:
Can I make Peanut Butter Blossoms ahead for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare the dough a day or two ahead and keep it tightly wrapped in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake fresh for soft peanut butter cookies that feel like a little homemade gift.
What if I don’t have chocolate kiss cookies?
No stress. Mini chocolate chips or small chunks of your favorite chocolate bar work beautifully for chocolate-topped cookies. It’s all about what you have on hand and what tastes good to you.
How can I adjust the flavor of Peanut Butter Blossoms to my taste?
Add a pinch more salt if you like savory notes or increase vanilla for sweetness. For a twist, I’ve added orange zest or a touch of espresso powder to deepen the flavor—both bring out the peanut butter beautifully.
Are these cookies vegan or easy to adapt?
You can swap the egg with a flax egg for a vegan option, and use dairy-free chocolate kisses or chips. I’ve tried this version and it worked well, though the texture is a bit different—still soft and satisfying.
Why are my Peanut Butter Blossoms sometimes too soft or crumbly?
If too soft, try baking them an extra minute or two and be sure not to add too much liquid. If crumbly, it’s often because of overbaking or not enough binding agent—double check your egg or egg replacement.
Can I freeze Peanut Butter Blossoms?
Absolutely! Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. You can also freeze dough balls and bake fresh when ready, which is a big time saver.
How much peanut butter is best for that soft peanut butter cookie texture?
Using natural peanut butter with a balance of oil and solids creates the softest cookies. Too dry or too oily affects texture, so I stick with brands that are creamy and pure peanuts for the best results.
If you want to see more classic inspiration, sites like Classic Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe – BettyCrocker.com and Classic Peanut Butter Blossoms – Sally’s Baking are great to check out alongside my simplified version. For a modern twist, you might enjoy Peanut Butter Blossoms – Preppy Kitchen too.
Final Thoughts
Peanut Butter Blossoms hold a special place in my kitchen because they feel like a cozy, doable treat any time of the year. They’re proof that nourishing food can also satisfy your sweet tooth without complication or overwhelm. The joy of soft peanut butter cookies paired with chocolate kiss cookies on top makes every bite feel like a little celebration of balance and simplicity.
My favorite Peanut Butter Blossoms tips:
- Don’t overmix your dough—keep it gentle for soft cookies
- Press the chocolate kiss cookies in right when the cookies come out of the oven to get that perfect melty top
- Try a sprinkle of sea salt on each cookie before baking for an extra flavor pop
I’ve played with lots of variations—classic with brown sugar, a vegan-friendly flax egg version, and sometimes a hint of cinnamon. But I always come back to my basic recipe because it feels so reliable and rewarding.
I hope you give this Peanut Butter Blossoms recipe a try and find your own little twists to make it yours. Baking these cookies is about enjoying the process and eating well in a way that fits your life, not the other way around. Let’s keep sharing these simple, nourishing recipes that bring a little joyful balance to our kitchens.
And remember, if you’re inspired, don’t forget to check out peanut butter pie treats like the old-fashioned peanut butter pie or the peanut butter cookie bites for more peanut butter magic. Happy baking, friend!
Peanut Butter Blossoms
Peanut Butter Blossoms are classic soft peanut butter cookies topped with a milk chocolate Hershey’s Kiss, offering a perfect combination of sweet and nutty flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 48 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rolling)
- 48 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, peanut butter, butter, and egg until creamy.
- Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt; gradually add to peanut butter mixture and mix well.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls and roll each in the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
- Place 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
- Immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie; cookies will crack around edges.
- Remove from baking sheets to wire racks; cool completely.
Notes
For extra flavor, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking to help cookies hold their shape better.

