Ingredients
Scale
Essential Ingredients
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter (commercial brands recommended)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- ⅓ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup softened butter
- 24–36 chocolate kisses (unwrapped)
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Unwrap all chocolate kisses to have them ready for quick use.
- Pour ½ cup granulated sugar into a small bowl for rolling the dough.
Making the Cookie Dough
- In a large bowl, cream together softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Shaping and Baking
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon each).
- Coat each ball in granulated sugar.
- Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the tops are just set.
- Remove from the oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
Creative Variations
- Alternative Chocolates:
- Dark chocolate kisses for a less sweet option.
- Caramel-filled chocolates for indulgence.
- Mini peanut butter cups for extra peanut butter flavor.
- Fair trade chocolate squares for ethical sourcing.
- Dietary Modifications:
- Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free cookies.
- Substitute plant-based butter and a flax egg for vegan cookies.
- Opt for dairy-free chocolate to make the recipe vegan-friendly.
- Decorative Touches:
- Roll dough balls in colored sugar for festive flair.
- Drizzle cooled cookies with melted chocolate.
- Sprinkle with sea salt for a sweet-salty balance.
- Add finely chopped peanuts to the sugar coating for extra crunch.
Professional Tips
- Ensure butter is softened but not melted, and eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
- If the dough becomes too soft, chill it before shaping and baking.
- Press chocolate kisses into cookies while hot for the best appearance and adhesion.
- Store cookies in airtight containers at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.