Description
Peanut butter kiss cookies are a beloved treat that perfectly blend the rich, nutty flavor of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate. These cookies are not only delicious but also simple to make, making them a favorite for bakers of all skill levels. Whether you’re making them for a holiday gathering, a bake sale, or just for a sweet snack at home, these cookies are sure to please.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- All-Purpose Flour (1 3/4 cups)
- This forms the base of the cookies and provides structure.
- Baking Soda (1 teaspoon)
- This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and gives them a light texture.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
- Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
- Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup, softened)
- Adds richness and moisture to the cookies.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup)
- Sweetens the cookies and contributes to their crispness.
- Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed)
- Adds moisture and a deeper flavor due to the molasses content.
- Peanut Butter (1 cup)
- The star ingredient that provides flavor and a chewy texture.
- Egg (1 large)
- Acts as a binder, holding the ingredients together.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon)
- Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Topping:
- Chocolate Kisses (approximately 24)
- These are placed on top of the cookies just after baking for a sweet finish.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden-brown color.
Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets
Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside, as you’ll add it to the wet ingredients later.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Peanut Butter, Egg, and Vanilla
Add the peanut butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until everything is well combined and smooth.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be cohesive but not tough.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough and roll it into balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they’ll continue to firm up as they cool.
Step 9: Add the Chocolate Kisses
Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookies will slightly melt the kisses, helping them adhere.
Step 10: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!