If there's one cookie that perfectly captures the magic of combining flavors, it's the Peanut Butter Blossom. This classic treat marries the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweet indulgence of chocolate, making it a perennial favorite at cookie swaps and holiday gatherings.
The star of our show is definitely the creamy peanut butter, which provides that rich, nutty flavor and smooth texture. The granulated sugar sweetens the deal, while unsalted butter adds a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth quality. A large egg helps bind everything together, and a touch of vanilla extract enhances all the flavors. The all-purpose flour forms the base of the dough, with baking soda giving it a bit of rise and salt balancing the sweetness. Finally, the iconic Hershey's Kisses on top are the perfect crowning touch.
These cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert platter. Try pairing them with a tall glass of cold milk or your favorite hot cocoa for a cozy treat. They're also wonderful as part of a holiday cookie exchange or simply as a sweet ending to a family dinner.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure nothing sticks. In a large mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, and softened butter. Use a mixer or a sturdy spatula to cream them together until you have a smooth, fluffy mixture.
Next, crack in the egg and pour in the vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly until everything is fully incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough begins to form.
Now, it's time to get your hands a little messy! Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread. Slide them into the oven and let them bake for about 10 minutes until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
As soon as you pull the cookies from the oven, press a Hershey's Kiss into the center of each one. Be gentle but firm; you want the chocolate to nestle into the cookie without squishing it flat. Let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely.