Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, peanut butter, and both sugars until light and fluffy.
- Beat in egg and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix into wet ingredients until combined.
Step 2: Bake the Bars
- Press dough evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and set.
- Remove from oven and immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each portion (score or mark 24 portions first for spacing).
- Cool completely before slicing.
Tips for Success
- Press chocolate kisses in while bars are still hot so they gently melt into place.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle coarse sugar or holiday sprinkles over the dough before baking.
- Use parchment paper for easy lift-out and clean cuts.
Variations
- Use mini peanut butter cups instead of kisses
- Add chopped peanuts for crunch
- Swirl in a bit of chocolate or caramel sauce before baking
Ingredient Substitutions
- Brown sugar → coconut sugar for a subtle molasses flavor
- All-purpose flour → 1:1 gluten-free blend
- Chocolate kisses → any holiday chocolate shapes
Storage & Reheating
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days
- Freeze bars (unfrosted) up to 2 months and add kisses after thawing
What to Serve With It
- Hot cocoa or spiced tea
- A scoop of vanilla or peanut butter ice cream
- Alongside other classic cookies on a holiday dessert tray
Nutrition Facts (Per Bar)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 22g
- Sugar: 13g
FAQs
Can I use natural peanut butter?
It’s best to use processed creamy peanut butter for stability.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes — use a larger sheet pan and extend bake time slightly.
Can I make them ahead?
Absolutely — they stay soft and delicious for several days.
Related Recipes
Conclusion
These 1950s Christmas tray peanut butter blossom bars are the nostalgic treat your holiday table’s been waiting for. Easy to make and endlessly charming, they bring a little vintage joy to every bite — perfect for cookie trays, dessert swaps, and sweet holiday memories.
