Amish Peanut Butter Blossoms are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter cookie, infused with the rich traditions of Amish cooking. These cookies, topped with a chocolate kiss, are not just a treat; they embody a sense of community and nostalgia, often enjoyed during gatherings and celebrations. As you prepare to make these cookies, you’ll find that the process is as rewarding as the delicious outcome.
The Tradition Behind Amish Peanut Butter Blossoms
In Amish culture, food often serves as a bridge between generations, fostering connections among family and friends. Peanut butter blossoms, with their simple yet satisfying flavors, are a perfect example of this. While the classic version features a chocolate kiss, the Amish variation may include unique ingredients or methods that reflect local tastes and traditions.
Imagine gathering with friends or family, sharing stories while baking these cookies together. The aroma of peanut butter and chocolate fills the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This experience is not just about the cookies; it’s about the memories you create along the way.
Recipe for Amish Peanut Butter Blossoms
Here’s how you can make your own batch of these delightful cookies:
Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon milk (optional)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 30 Hershey’s Chocolate Kisses, unwrapped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, and ½ cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the brown sugar and mix until well combined.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg, milk (if using), and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then roll each ball in the remaining granulated sugar until well coated. Place them on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Add Chocolate Kisses: Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each cookie. Return the cookies to the oven for an additional 30 seconds to help the kisses adhere.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Enjoying Your Cookies
Once your Amish Peanut Butter Blossoms are ready, gather your loved ones and enjoy them fresh out of the oven. These cookies are perfect for sharing at family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat to brighten your day.
Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate kisses or even add a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor kick. The beauty of these cookies lies in their versatility and the joy they bring to those who share them. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the spirit of Amish tradition, and create some sweet memories with your Amish Peanut Butter Blossoms!