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The Original Peanut Butter Blossom Recipe

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Donna Urso

Remember the first time you bit into a peanut butter blossom cookie? That perfect harmony of salty, chewy peanut butter and melt-in-your-mouth milk chocolate is a cookie delight, isn't it? These timeless classics aren't just any cookies; they're a cherished part of American holiday tradition, and a must-have on every Christmas cookie tray.

But have you ever wondered about the origin story of this iconic treat? The peanut butter blossom's journey isn't just a family recipe whispered through generations; it's a culinary adventure that started in the legendary 1957 Pillsbury Bake-Off contest.

The Classic Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies Recipe

Peanut butter blossom cookies on a cooling rack.

In 1957 the Pillsbury Bake-Off wasn't just a contest; it was a cultural phenomenon. Mrs. Freda Smith, a homemaker from Gibsonburg, Ohio, was a 1957 contender. Her secret weapon was a simple peanut butter cookie sporting a single, chocolatey, Hershey's Kiss. It was simplicity at its finest.

While Mrs. Smith didn't take home the grand prize (the title went to the "Accordion Twists"!), her peanut butter kiss cookies stole hearts and kitchens nationwide. Recipes from the contest were embraced by home cooks across the country, and the peanut butter blossom cookie recipe quickly spread. It appeared widely in newspapers and magazines, accompanied by heartwarming stories of family baking traditions. It wasn't long before the peanut blossom cookie became a well-loved American treat.

Today, I'm sharing the original, classic, Peanut Butter Blossom cookie recipe.  Let's get baking!

Why We Love Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

The recipe is simple. It requires readily available ingredients and minimal fuss. Flour, peanut butter, sugar, and eggs are baking staples already on hand in most pantries. Pick up a bag of Hershey's Kisses and you will be ready to bake.

Preparation is easy. The easy preparation makes it the perfect activity for families, grandmas, moms, and the kiddos together creating memories (and delicious treats) in the kitchen.

Enjoyable texture and flavors. The chewy peanut butter dough, rich with nutty goodness, gives way to the gooey, melt-in-your-mouth chocolate center. 

Easily customized. While I like to stick to the original recipe, feel free to experiment with different peanut butter types (creamy, crunchy, even almond butter!), add a dash of cinnamon or vanilla to the dough, or sprinkle the cookies with a touch of sea salt for an extra flavor kick. You can even experiment with different types of kisses- peanut butter, white chocolate, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts.

How to Make the Original Peanut  Blossom Recipe

This recipe is the same recipe Freda Smith entered in the Pillsbury Bake-Off in 1957 with one modification. At some point over the years, Pillsbury began publishing the recipe with the addition of two tablespoons of milk. 

The addition of the milk helps the dough come together and makes it easier to form the cookies. It's your choice whether to add the milk or stay true to Freda's original recipe.

Peanut Blossom Baking Tips

Even though these cookies peanut butter cookies are easy to make these tips will ensure success.

-Bring your butter, peanut butter, and eggs to room temperature.

-Use a tablespoon measuring spoon to scoop the dough into uniform balls.

-Return the cookies to the oven for 20-30 seconds after adding the Hershey's Kiss to the cookie.  It will help secure the kiss to the cookie.

Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use natural peanut butter instead of regular peanut butter?

 Yes, you can substitute natural peanut butter, but keep in mind that it might alter the texture slightly due to its different consistency. Stir it well before use.

Is refrigerating the dough necessary before baking?

I don't. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help the cookies maintain their shape while baking, but it's not mandatory. If the dough becomes too firm, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping.

Can I freeze Peanut Butter Blossom cookies?

 Yes, these cookies freeze well. Store them in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

How long do Peanut Butter Blossom cookies stay fresh?

When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, they stay fresh for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for a longer shelf life.

What causes the cookies to turn out dry or crumbly?

Overbaking or not measuring your flour carefully can lead to dry or crumbly cookies. Ensure you follow the recipe's measurements accurately and bake just until the edges are lightly golden.  Using two tablespoons of milk in the recipe will help, too. 

Can I use different types of chocolate candies instead of Hershey's Kisses?

Yes, experimenting can be fun. Just be aware that you won't have the "original" peanut blossom cookie when you do. 

Links to the History of Peanut Blossom Cookies

The Original Peanut Butter Blossom Recipe

Christmas cookies, peanut butter cookies
dessert
American
Yield: 36 cookies
Author: Donna Urso
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

The traditional peanut butter blossom cookie recipe from 1957.
Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 10 MinTotal time: 20 Min

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Stir the flour, baking soda, and salt together. Set aside.
  2. In another bowl, cream together the butter and peanut butter, with the sugars until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the egg, vanilla, and milk.
  4. Add the flour mixture all at once. Stir to combine well.
  5. Roll one-inch balls of cookie dough between your hands, and then in granulated sugar to coat. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
  6. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until puffed and slightly golden. Press a Hershey Kiss into the center of each cookie. Return the cookies to the oven for 30 seconds to ensure the Kiss sticks well to the cookie.
  7. Cool completely on a wire rack.

Notes

The milk is optional and was not part of the original recipe that was entered in the 1957 Pillsbury Bake-Off Contest. It helps the dough hold together making a softer dough than the original recipe.

Recommended Products

Measuring Spoons
Sheet Pans
Silicone Spatulas

Nutrition Facts

Calories

116.06

Fat (grams)

6.25 g

Sat. Fat (grams)

1.93 g

Carbs (grams)

14.08 g

Fiber (grams)

0.44 g

Net carbs

13.63 g

Sugar (grams)

8.77 g

Protein (grams)

1.96 g

Sodium (milligrams)

85.18 mg

Cholesterol (grams)

5.8 mg

This nutritional information is approximate.

Similar Recipes

Classic Italian Amaretti Cookies

Thumbprint Christmas Cookies

Mexican Wedding Cookies

©Just One Donna



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