There’s something magical about the combination of sweet and tangy, especially when it comes to baking. I recently discovered a recipe for Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies, and it captured my heart (and taste buds) instantly. These delightful cookies feature a chewy texture with a satisfying crunch from the outside, topped with a perfectly melted Hershey’s Kiss that adds just the right amount of indulgence. Not only are they an easy bake, perfect for novice bakers looking to impress, but they also make for a crowd-pleasing treat during the holidays. Have you ever tried turning sourdough discard into something so delicious that it makes you look at leftovers in a whole new light? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering holiday classic!
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Uniqueness: Using sourdough discard transforms ordinary cookies into a spectacular treat, making them both creative and flavorful.
Easy Bake: This recipe simplifies baking, welcoming even novice bakers who want to shine in the kitchen.
Chewy Delight: The combination of chewy centers and a crunchy exterior results in a satisfying texture that pleases the palate.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or holiday feasts, these cookies will disappear in no time, leaving everyone craving more!
Versatile Toppings: Don’t just stop at Hershey’s Kisses; feel free to get imaginative with your cookie toppings, whether you opt for chocolate chips or even a sprinkle of festive sugar.
Discover your new favorite cookie with these Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies—you won’t look at leftovers the same way again!
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; using fresh flour will enhance the cookie’s texture.
- Baking Soda – A vital leavening agent; always check its freshness for optimal rise.
- Baking Powder – An additional leavening component; fresh powder ensures light cookies.
- Salt – Elevates flavor; unrefined salt options like Redmond’s add unique minerals.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
- Granulated Sugar – Contributes sweetness and achieves a crunchy exterior post-baking.
- Brown Sugar – Brings moisture and caramel flavor to the mix, enhancing the taste.
- Large Egg – Helps bind ingredients; essential for achieving the right texture.
- Sourdough Discard – Imparts a delightful tang; use within a week to maintain freshness.
- Creamy Peanut Butter – This primary flavor source works best with processed varieties for ideal consistency.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth and complexity to flavor; choose pure extract for superior taste.
For the Topping
- Hershey’s Kisses – These sweet treats melt beautifully into the cookies; feel free to customize with different types!
Unlock the magic of baking with these delectable Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies—perfect for holiday gatherings or simply satisfying your sweet cravings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt until well combined. This step ensures that all your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, providing the perfect structure for your Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies. Set this mixture aside to focus on the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Cream Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of brown sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This creates a smooth texture, which is key to achieving chewy cookies. Scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well-mixed.
Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large egg, 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, ½ cup of sourdough discard, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugars. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined and smooth, about 1 minute. This delightful mixture will serve as the base for your Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies, enriching them with flavor.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients using a spatula or the mixer on low speed. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this could result in tough cookies. The dough should hold together but still look slightly crumbly—this is perfect for the texture you want in your peanut butter blossoms.
Step 5: Chill Dough
Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling the dough helps to enhance the flavors and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. When ready, the dough will be firmer and easier to shape.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
Thirty minutes before you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to enable even baking. Preheating is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Once chilled, take tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them in granulated sugar for an extra sweet crunch. Place them on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart, as they will spread slightly during baking. This step sets the stage for beautifully shaped cookies with a crunchy exterior.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are soft. You’ll see slight cracks on the top, indicating that they’re ready. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking—remove them when they’re still soft to ensure that chewy center you crave in your Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies.
Step 9: Add Topping
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, gently press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie while they’re still warm. This allows the chocolate to melt slightly, creating a deliciously gooey topping. The contrast of the warm cookie with the melting chocolate is simply irresistible!
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely. This cooling process helps set the cookies while allowing the melted chocolate to firm up. Once cooled, serve your Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies with a glass of milk or coffee and watch them disappear!
Make Ahead Options
These Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to simplify their baking! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps of the recipe and then wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. Keep it refrigerated to maintain its quality and flavor. Additionally, you can roll the cookie balls in sugar ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; just remember to add the Hershey’s Kisses right after baking for that delightful melted topping. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat the oven, bake, and enjoy warm, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delightful cookies your own, enhancing flavors and textures that tantalize your tastebuds.
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Nut-Free Option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a safe, nut-free treat. It brings a similarly creamy texture without the allergens.
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Chocolate Lovers: Swap in dark chocolate Kisses for a richer, deeper flavor profile. This twist is perfect for the chocoholics in your life!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected heat that beautifully contrasts the sweetness. You might just redefine what “sweet” means!
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Festive Touch: Roll dough balls in colored sugar before baking for a sparkly, holiday flair. This small detail can make your cookies even more delightful during special occasions.
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Mix-ins: Incorporate your favorite chocolate chips or chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for added texture and rich flavor. Feel free to get adventurous and blend different kinds of chocolate!
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Oatmeal Crunch: Mix in quick oats for a rustic, hearty chewiness that complements the cookie beautifully. This variation also adds fiber, making them slightly more wholesome.
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Coconut Delight: Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical twist. The coconut’s sweetness pairs so well with peanut butter and adds an enticing chewy texture!
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Zesty Citrus: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a twist of brightness. Citrus notes can elevate these cookies to new heights and are sure to surprise.
Don’t forget to check out other delightful recipes like Millies Cookies Bake to explore more baking adventures!
Storage Tips for Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
- Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days to maintain their chewy texture and fresh flavor.
- Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, place the container in the refrigerator for up to a week, although they may lose some chewiness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookie dough balls for up to two months; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking fresh Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies.
- Reheating: If you desire warm cookies, gently heat them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to enjoy that fresh-baked goodness once again.
What to Serve with Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
The warm, gooey presence of these delightful cookies calls for a well-rounded meal experience to complement their sweet charm.
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Creamy Milkshake: A luscious milkshake balances sweetness and makes for a nostalgic pairing, evoking childhood memories of cookies and cream.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing acidity, enhancing the peanut butter flavor and keeping things light.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that melts beautifully into every bite.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: Enjoy with a steaming mug of rich hot chocolate, perfect for warming up, especially on chilly evenings.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Lightly drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cookies for a sweet, gooey twist that will elevate their flavor profile.
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Chai Tea: Chai’s spicy warmth contrasts with the sweetness of the cookies, creating a cozy combination that’s perfect for any gathering.
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Cheese Platter: A cheese platter with sweet and savory choices can provide a unique contrast, as creamy cheddar or tangy goat cheese enhances the overall experience.
Pair these delightful cookies with any of these options to elevate your dessert game to a whole new level!
Expert Tips for Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies
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Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest in the fridge not only enhances flavors but also prevents spreading, resulting in perfectly chewy Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies.
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Check Freshness: Make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh. Using old leavening agents can lead to flat cookies that lack the desired rise and texture.
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Proper Mixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so a gentle hand is key to achieving that tender bite.
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Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment beyond Hershey’s Kisses! Add your favorite chocolate chips, nuts, or festive sprinkles for a unique twist on these beloved cookies.
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Storage Tips: For best results, store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days to keep them fresh and chewy.
Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe FAQs
What type of peanut butter should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using creamy, processed peanut butter for the smoothest texture. Natural peanut butter can work, but it may alter the cookie’s consistency since it tends to be oilier and less stable.
How should I store my cookies?
For the best flavor and texture, store your Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5-7 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. However, be aware that refrigeration may make them slightly less chewy.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough! Shape the dough into tablespoon-sized balls, arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer the frozen balls into a zip-top bag, and they’ll last up to 2 months. Whenever you’re ready to bake, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
Very! If your Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies spread excessively, it could be due to the dough not being chilled long enough or overmixing the wet and dry ingredients. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 4 hours and mix it gently until just combined. If you want extra assurance against spreading, feel free to chill the dough balls for another 30 minutes before they hit the oven.
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind?
While these cookies are predominantly made with common ingredients like flour, sugar, and peanut butter, it’s important to be cautious if you or anyone consuming them has allergies. If nut allergies are a concern, you can substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free version. Just keep in mind that this will alter the flavor slightly but can still yield delicious results!
How long can I keep uneaten cookies?
Store your uneaten Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 5-7 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them, as described above. They make for perfect treats whenever a sweet craving strikes!
Sourdough Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies for Holiday Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg, peanut butter, sourdough discard, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Wrap dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape dough into tablespoon-sized balls and roll them in granulated sugar.
- Bake for 9-11 minutes or until edges are set and centers are soft.
- Press a Hershey's Kiss into the center of each warm cookie.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
