Classic Salted Caramel Cheesecake Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes, where culinary creativity meets comfort and joy! Today, we delve into a timeless classic that embodies the perfect harmony of salty, sweet, creamy, and crunchy textures: Peanut Butter Kisses. These cookies are a celebration of flavor, combining the richness of peanut butter with the lusciousness of milk chocolate kisses, creating an irresistible treat that is both quick to prepare and delightful to enjoy. Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon snack, a festive gathering, or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth craving, Peanut Butter Kisses stand out as a versatile and beloved dessert. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet it delivers a complex flavor profile that keeps everyone coming back for more. As we explore every detail of this recipe, remember that Love With Recipes is committed to sharing culinary joy, and these cookies are no exception. Prepare to embark on a baking adventure that promises smiles, satisfaction, and perhaps a new family favorite.

Time

Needed Equipment

• Large mixing bowls
• Electric hand or stand mixer (or a sturdy whisk)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cookie sheet or baking tray
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
• Cooling rack
• Tablespoon or cookie scoop
• Unwrapping station for chocolate kisses
• Oven mitts for handling hot trays
• Wire rack for cooling

Tags

Cookies, Peanut Butter, Chocolate, Easy Baking, Quick Recipes, Kid-Friendly, Snack, Dessert, Comfort Food, Love With Recipes

Serving Size

Each batch makes approximately 24 cookies, with a typical serving being one cookie. Nutritional information per serving is detailed below, but these cookies are best enjoyed fresh and slightly warm.

Difficulty Level

Easy — suitable for beginner bakers and seasoned chefs alike. The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple, making this a perfect recipe for quick baking sessions or baking with children.

Allergen Information

This recipe contains gluten (wheat in flour), dairy (butter and milk), nuts (peanut butter), and soy (if chocolates contain soy lecithin). Always check ingredient labels for specific allergen content, especially if serving to individuals with allergies.

Dietary Preference

This recipe is not suitable for vegan or dairy-free diets unless substitutions are made (e.g., plant-based butter, vegan chocolate, or nut butters). It is also not gluten-free unless using certified gluten-free flour.

Course

Cookie/Dessert

Cuisine

American, Comfort Food

Ingredients

Instructions

Preparation

Before starting, ensure your workspace is clean and all ingredients are measured and ready. Unwrap the chocolate kisses ahead of time and set them aside on a plate or tray. This will make the final assembly smoother, especially when the cookies come out of the oven hot and ready for topping.

Creaming the Wet Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line your cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the ingredients together until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and slightly pale in color. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes and is essential for developing a tender texture in your cookies. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to incorporate all ingredients evenly.

Adding the Egg and Vanilla

Next, add the large egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Continue beating on medium speed until the egg is fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. The addition of vanilla enhances the flavor profile, giving the cookies a warm, inviting aroma that complements the peanut butter and chocolate perfectly. Ensure that the mixture remains smooth and consistent, which indicates proper emulsification of fats and liquids.

Incorporating Peanut Butter and Milk

Now, introduce the creamy peanut butter and milk into the mixture. Add the peanut butter gradually, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure it is evenly dispersed. The peanut butter imparts a rich, nutty flavor and contributes to the chewy texture of the cookies. The milk acts as a tenderizer, adding moisture and a slight richness to the dough. Mix until you achieve a homogeneous, smooth batter, with no streaks of peanut butter or milk remaining. This step is crucial because the peanut butter’s consistency can vary depending on the brand; a smooth, natural peanut butter is recommended for consistency.

Combining the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, using a spatula or low-speed mixer to avoid flour flying out of the bowl. Mix until the dough just comes together—overmixing can lead to tougher cookies. The dough should be soft, slightly sticky, but manageable for scooping or rolling. If the dough feels too sticky, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes, which will make it easier to handle and help the cookies retain their shape during baking.

Forming the Cookies

Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing each cookie about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. For an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal, you can roll each dough portion into a ball and then coat it lightly with granulated sugar before placing it on the sheet. This creates a subtle crust on the outside and enhances the overall sweetness. Slightly flatten each dough ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers if you prefer a more uniform shape. Be gentle to avoid pressing the cookies too flat, as they will spread during baking.

Baking the Cookies

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; they should turn a light golden brown around the edges but remain soft in the center. Overbaking can result in a dry, crumbly texture, while underbaking might leave the cookies too soft and prone to breaking. For consistent results, turn the baking sheet halfway through baking if your oven has hotspots. When baking is complete, remove the sheet from the oven using oven mitts and allow the cookies to rest on the sheet for 2-3 minutes. This brief cooling period helps them set and makes handling easier.

Adding the Chocolate Kisses

While the cookies are still warm, carefully press a chocolate kiss into the center of each one. The heat from the cookie will slightly melt the chocolate, creating a luscious, glossy top. If you prefer a more pronounced melting effect, you can gently press the kisses deeper into the cookies or briefly return the tray to the oven for an additional 1-2 minutes. Avoid overbaking after adding the kisses, as the chocolate can become too soft or start to melt excessively, which might make transfer and presentation more challenging.

Cooling and Serving

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the cookies maintain their shape and prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy. Once cooled, enjoy immediately or store for later. The melted chocolate kiss atop each cookie creates a delightful contrast with the chewy peanut butter base, offering an indulgent and satisfying experience with every bite.

Preparation Tips

• Chill the dough: If the dough feels too sticky to handle, refrigerate it for 15 minutes. This makes shaping easier and results in more uniform cookies.
• Choose quality ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality peanut butter and chocolate kisses for maximum flavor. Natural peanut butter adds a richer taste, but stabilized versions work well too.
• Variations: Experiment with different types of chocolate kisses—dark, milk, caramel-filled—or add chopped nuts to the dough for extra crunch.
• Handling melted chocolate: If the kisses are not melting to your liking, you can microwave them for 5 seconds at a time to soften slightly before pressing into the cookies.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Use room temperature ingredients: Softened butter and eggs mix more evenly, creating a smoother dough.
• For a softer cookie: Slightly underbake, removing from the oven when edges are golden but centers are still soft.
• For crunchier cookies: Replace butter with shortening, or increase baking time by 1-2 minutes.
• Decoration: Drizzle melted chocolate over the finished cookies for an elegant presentation.
• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Add-ons

• Chopped roasted peanuts or almonds sprinkled on top before baking
• Mini chocolate chips mixed into the dough for extra chocolate bursts
• Sea salt flakes sprinkled on top for a sweet-salty flavor punch
• Use flavored or filled chocolate kisses for variety (e.g., caramel or mint)

Side Dishes

Complement these cookies with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience. They also pair beautifully with fruit compotes or fresh berries to balance sweetness with a touch of acidity.

Improvements

• Incorporate oats into the dough for a chewy, hearty variation.
• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or cocoa powder for a flavor twist.
• Use homemade peanut butter for a richer, more natural taste.
• Experiment with gluten-free flour blends to make the recipe gluten-free.

Save and Store

Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the microwave for a soft, freshly baked feel.

FAQ

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes, substitute the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, use plant-based milk, and replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes). Use vegan chocolate kisses or chocolate chips for the topping.

Can I use natural peanut butter?

Absolutely. Natural peanut butter works well, but note that it tends to be oilier and may require refrigerating the dough slightly to prevent spreading too much during baking.

How can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Replace all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that your chocolate kisses are also gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten additives.

Can I prepare this dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld and can improve the cookie’s texture. Just bring the dough to room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.

Conclusion

Peanut Butter Kisses are a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary. Their irresistible blend of creamy peanut butter, sweet chocolate, and soft cookie base makes them a perennial favorite for all ages. Whether baked for a special occasion or a spontaneous sweet craving, these cookies never disappoint. The process is straightforward, the ingredients are accessible, and the end result is a batch of cookies that evoke comfort, nostalgia, and pure happiness. Remember to share these treats with loved ones, as nothing beats the joy of enjoying a homemade cookie together. At Love With Recipes, we believe that baking is an act of love, and these Peanut Butter Kisses exemplify that sentiment perfectly. Happy baking, and may every bite bring a smile to your face!

References

1. King Arthur Baking – Peanut Butter Cookies

2. Allrecipes – Classic Peanut Butter Cookies