There’s something magical about the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, and our Peanut Butter Kisses candy recipe captures that magic perfectly. These sweet little treats are a nostalgic nod to classic homemade candies, blending creamy peanut butter with a rich chocolate kiss on top. They’re simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Peanut Butter Kisses Candy Recipe
Let’s dive into the steps to create these irresistible Peanut Butter Kisses candies. With a soft, peanut buttery cookie base and a perfectly placed chocolate kiss on top, this recipe is as fun to make as it is to eat. Follow these step-by-step instructions for foolproof results.
Ingredients
Here’s everything we’ll need to whip up these bite-sized treats:
- 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 36 unwrapped chocolate kisses (such as Hershey’s)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your baking sheet with parchment paper for non-stick perfection.
2. Cream the Peanut Butter and Butter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup peanut butter and 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter. Using a hand mixer, beat until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
3. Add Sugars:
Gradually blend in 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup light brown sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture becomes fluffy and light.
4. Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
Add 1 egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat until well combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients Separately:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Shape and Roll:
Scoop dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar for a lightly sweet coating.
7. Bake Cookies:
Arrange dough balls on your prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each one. Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes until edges are slightly golden. Avoid overbaking; the centers should remain soft.
| Step | Action | Time/Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preheat oven | 375°F (190°C) |
| 6 | Shape dough | 1-inch balls |
| 7 | Bake cookies | 8–10 minutes |
8. Add Chocolate Kisses:
As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, press an unwrapped chocolate kiss gently into the center of each cookie while still warm. The chocolate will slightly melt, adhering perfectly to the cookie base.
9. Cool Completely:
Transfer cookies to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool fully before serving to set the chocolate.
Pro-Tip:
“If you want soft and chewy cookies, avoid overbaking. Keep an eye on the edges—they should just start turning golden.”
And there you have it—our perfect batch of Peanut Butter Kisses candy ready to enjoy! Bold flavors of peanut butter and chocolate come together in this irresistible treat perfect for any celebration or quick indulgence.
Ingredients
Here’s what we’ll need to make these irresistible Peanut Butter Kisses candies. Each ingredient plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Make sure to measure accurately for the best results.
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – Sifted for a smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cookies rise perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the rich peanut butter flavor.
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature) – Softened to help with creaming.
- ½ cup smooth peanut butter – For a creamy and rich peanut taste.
- ½ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and structure.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar – Offers a hint of caramel flavor and keeps the cookies moist.
- 1 large egg (room temperature) – Binds the dough and adds richness.
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
Topping:
- 30 chocolate kisses (unwrapped) – These are the stars of the show, crowning each cookie with a burst of chocolate.
Key Notes on Ingredients:
- For the peanut butter, we recommend using a smooth, processed type like Jif or Skippy. Avoid natural peanut butter, as the oil separation can affect the dough’s consistency.
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the recipe. If you’re using salted butter, reduce the added salt by half.
- Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth, even batter.
- Chocolate kisses must be unwrapped and ready before baking so they can be pressed into the cookies while they’re still warm. Tip: Freeze the chocolate kisses beforehand to prevent melting when placed on hot cookies.
Tools And Equipment
To make Peanut Butter Kisses candy, we need a handful of essential tools to ensure a smooth and stress-free cooking process. Here’s a detailed list of the tools and why they’re important:
Essential Tools
- Mixing bowls: A large one for combining the wet and dry ingredients and a medium-sized one for any pre-measuring.
- Electric mixer or stand mixer: To achieve a creamy consistency for our peanut butter and butter mixture. A hand mixer works fine too.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are key to perfectly balanced flavors. Use these for both wet and dry ingredients.
- Silicone spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure no ingredient goes to waste.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy, non-stick baking sheet is necessary for even baking. You can line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat: To keep our cookies from sticking to the baking sheet and to make cleanup a breeze.
- Cooling rack: Helps in cooling the cookies evenly while maintaining that perfect texture.
- Sifter (optional): For fluffing the dry ingredients like flour and preventing clumps.
- Small cookie scoop or tablespoon: Ensures uniform cookie sizes for even baking.
Time-Saving Tips
- Unwrap the chocolate kisses in advance and store them in the freezer. It saves time and ensures the chocolate holds its shape when we press them into the warm cookies.
- Use a stand mixer with a paddle attachment if making a large batch, as it makes creaming easier and quicker.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing bowls | Combining all wet and dry ingredients. |
| Electric or hand mixer | Creaming the butter and sugar mixture for better texture. |
| Measuring cups/spoons | Ensuring precise ingredient proportions. |
| Silicone spatula | Scraping down bowl sides efficiently. |
| Baking sheet | Providing a sturdy, even baking surface. |
| Parchment paper/baking mat | Preventing the cookies from sticking and reducing cleanup time. |
| Cooling rack | Allowing cookies to cool evenly without becoming soggy. |
| Cookie scoop/tablespoon | Creating evenly-sized cookies for a professional finish. |
These tools and equipment are non-negotiable for successfully crafting soft, chewy, and perfectly-shaped Peanut Butter Kisses cookies. By having everything prepped and ready, we streamline the process, making baking these candies a joyous experience.
Directions
These Peanut Butter Kisses candies are as fun to make as they are to eat. Follow our detailed steps to create these indulgent treats with a soft, peanut buttery base and a chocolatey kiss on top.
Prep
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Unwrap about 30 chocolate kisses and place them in the freezer. This will help them hold their shape when pressed into the warm cookies.
- Gather all ingredients, ensuring the wet ones—like peanut butter, butter, and eggs—are at room temperature for seamless mixing.
Make The Peanut Butter Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of unsalted butter and ¾ cup of smooth peanut butter. Use an electric mixer to cream until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add ½ cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of packed brown sugar. Continue mixing until fully incorporated and creamy.
- Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms—avoid overmixing.
Pro Tip: Use a silicone spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl and ensure all ingredients are fully blended.
Shape And Add Chocolate Kisses
- Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion the dough into equal-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Roll each dough ball gently between your hands to create a smooth, round shape.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
Bake The Candies
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press a frozen chocolate kiss into the center of each cookie. Be firm but gentle, ensuring the kiss stands upright.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Important Note: Avoid overbaking—the cookies should remain soft and chewy, complementing the creamy peanut butter flavor.
By following these steps, our Peanut Butter Kisses candy recipe will deliver a delightful batch of treats full of nostalgic charm and irresistible flavors.
Tips For Success
For perfectly soft and flavorful Peanut Butter Kisses candy, it’s essential to follow these tried-and-true tips. Each step contributes to achieving that irresistible combination of a chewy peanut butter base and a perfectly intact chocolate kiss topping.
1. Prepare Ingredients in Advance
- Always use room-temperature butter and egg. This ensures a smoother batter consistency and allows for even mixing.
- Unwrap the chocolate kisses before starting and freeze them for at least 20 minutes. The freezing step prevents the chocolate kisses from melting when placed on the warm cookies.
2. Measure Ingredients Accurately
- Baking is precise. Use level measuring cups for dry ingredients and a liquid measuring cup for wet ingredients.
- For ease, remember this measurement guide:
| Ingredient | Measurement Accuracy Tip |
|---|---|
| Flour | Lightly spoon into the cup, then level with a flat edge. |
| Smooth Peanut Butter | Scoop and level for consistency without packing too tightly. |
| Sugars | Level granulated sugar; pack brown sugar slightly using firm pressure. |
3. Chilling the Dough (Optional)
- If the dough feels too sticky, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and chill for 20-30 minutes. This makes shaping easier and prevents spreading during baking.
4. Ensure Evenly Sized Cookies
- Use a small cookie scoop (1 tablespoon size) to form uniform dough balls. Consistency in size ensures even baking.
5. Avoid Overbaking
- Bake the cookies until the edges are just set and the tops appear slightly puffed. They will firm up as they cool. An overbaked cookie results in a dry texture, so closely monitor the baking time.
6. Press Chocolate Kisses Gently
- When the cookies come out of the oven, allow them to rest for 1 minute. Then, gently press a frozen chocolate kiss into the center of each. Applying too much force can cause the cookies to crack.
7. Cooling is Key
- Transfer the cookies to a cooling rack after 5 minutes on the baking sheet. This allows airflow around the cookies and prevents overcooking from residual heat.
8. Storage Recommendations
- Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container. For optimal freshness, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Stored properly, these cookies remain soft and delicious for up to 5 days.
By following these practical tips, we ensure that every batch of Peanut Butter Kisses candy turns out beautifully, with the perfect balance of textures, flavors, and visual appeal.
Make-Ahead And Storage Instructions
When it comes to Peanut Butter Kisses candy, planning ahead and proper storage make all the difference in maintaining the freshness and flavor of these delightful treats. Let’s break down how we can prepare in advance and ensure our candies remain irresistible.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the Dough in Advance:
We can mix the peanut butter dough up to 2 days in advance. After preparing, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. If the dough feels too firm when removed from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before shaping.
- Freeze Dough Balls:
For extended prep, roll the dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the dough balls in a single layer until solid (about 1 hour). Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are sealed properly to prevent freezer burn. These can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply add a couple of minutes to the original baking time—no need to thaw!
- Unwrap and Freeze the Chocolate Kisses:
To save time on baking day, unwrap the chocolate kisses and store them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag in the fridge or freezer. Freezing helps maintain their shape when pressed into warm cookies.
Storage Instructions
- At Room Temperature:
Once baked and completely cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. For the best texture and taste, enjoy them within 5 days. Place a slice of bread inside the container to keep the cookies soft and chewy longer—the moisture from the bread works wonders!
- Refrigeration (Optional):
If you prefer extended storage, place the airtight container in the refrigerator. While refrigeration can extend their shelf life up to 7 days, it might slightly alter the softness. Bring cookies to room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
- Freezing Baked Cookies:
To freeze fully baked cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until firm. Then, stack the cookies with layers of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. These can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes, and they’ll taste as fresh as when they were baked!
Quick Reference Chart
| Storage Method | Timeframe | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator (Dough) | 2 days | Wrap tightly to maintain freshness. |
| Freezer (Dough Balls) | 3 months | Bake directly; add 2 minutes to time. |
| Room Temperature (Baked) | 5 days | Use a slice of bread to keep soft. |
| Refrigerator (Baked) | 7 days | Bring to room temp before serving. |
| Freezer (Baked Cookies) | 3 months | Layer with parchment to avoid sticking. |
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Kisses candy brings together the perfect balance of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate in every bite. This recipe is a timeless treat that’s as enjoyable to make as it is to eat. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a few handy tips, creating these soft, chewy delights becomes an effortless and rewarding experience.
Whether you’re whipping up a batch for a special occasion or indulging in some nostalgic baking, these candies are sure to impress. Let’s keep the tradition alive and share the joy of Peanut Butter Kisses with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Peanut Butter Kisses candy?
Peanut Butter Kisses are a classic treat made with a soft, peanut buttery cookie base topped with a rich chocolate kiss. They combine the perfect blend of nutty and sweet flavors, making them a nostalgic favorite.
What ingredients are needed for Peanut Butter Kisses?
You’ll need smooth peanut butter, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, an egg, vanilla extract, flour, baking soda, salt, and chocolate kisses. Accurate measuring and ingredient quality are key to the recipe’s success.
How do I prevent the cookies from overbaking?
Bake the cookies until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Remove them from the oven, as they’ll continue cooking slightly on the baking sheet.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and either refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Bring refrigerated dough to room temperature before baking.
Why do I need to freeze the chocolate kisses?
Freezing the chocolate kisses helps them maintain their shape when pressed into the warm cookies, preventing melting or smudging.
How do I keep the cookies soft?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread. The bread will help retain moisture, keeping your cookies soft and chewy for up to 5 days.
What tools are required to make Peanut Butter Kisses?
You’ll need mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a silicone spatula, a baking sheet, parchment paper or a silicone mat, a cooling rack, and a cookie scoop or tablespoon.
Can I freeze the baked cookies?
Yes, baked cookies can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Should I chill the dough before baking?
If the dough feels sticky or too soft, chilling it for 20-30 minutes will make it easier to shape and prevent excessive spreading while baking.
How can I ensure even-sized cookies?
Use a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon to portion the dough evenly. This ensures consistent baking and professional-looking cookies.