If you’re searching for the cutest, tastiest treat to light up your cookie platter, these Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies deliver pure joy in every bite. Soft, chewy peanut butter cookies are topped with a chocolate kiss and mini chocolate chip “claws” for an irresistibly playful spin on the classic blossom. Whether you’re making them for a family bake sale, a holiday cookie swap, or just for some fun in the kitchen with little ones, this recipe turns ordinary ingredients into extraordinary smiles. Not only are Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies adorable, but they also combine the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate, making them an instant crowd-pleaser you’ll want to bake again and again.

Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting together Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies is delightfully simple, yet every ingredient plays a unique role in creating their irresistible flavor and texture. Each addition makes these cookies melt-in-your-mouth tender, beautifully golden, and topped with just the right chocolatey touch.

Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Brings richness and helps achieve that perfectly soft cookie base.
Creamy peanut butter (1/2 cup): The star of the cookie, providing delicious peanut flavor, moisture, and a classic chew.
Granulated sugar (1/2 cup plus extra for rolling): Sweetens the dough and adds a lovely crackly finish when rolled before baking.
Packed brown sugar (1/2 cup): Deepens the sweetness and enhances the chewy, tender texture.
Large egg (1): Binds everything together and helps create that soft cookie crumb.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Accentuates the nutty peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
All-purpose flour (1 1/4 cups): Provides structure so your cookies are just the right amount of thick and sturdy.
Baking soda (3/4 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise for a light, fluffy result.
Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Works alongside the baking soda to offer even lift and softness.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances and boosts all those sweet, nutty notes.
Chocolate kisses (24, unwrapped): A dreamy chocolate center that transforms each cookie into a true blossom—and, of course, forms the “bear paw.”
Mini chocolate chips (48, for claws): The whimsical finishing touch, turning every cookie into an adorable bear paw.

How to Make Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this not only prevents sticking, but also makes cleanup a breeze. Getting your pan ready first ensures you can work quickly once the dough is mixed.

Step 2: Cream Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is what gives Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies their irresistible tender texture, so don’t skimp on this step—mix until you see everything well combined and creamy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Crack in your large egg and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is fully incorporated. The egg will help bind your ingredients, while the vanilla rounds out the flavors with a warm, inviting note.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This evenly distributes your leavening agents and the salt, ensuring every Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookie bakes up just right.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients, stirring until everything is just combined. The dough should come together smoothly and be easy to handle without becoming too sticky.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Next, roll each ball in additional granulated sugar for that signature glistening finish. Place the dough balls evenly on the lined baking sheet and press each one down slightly to flatten. This step is crucial for getting that classic blossom shape.

Step 7: Bake

Slide the cookies into your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, just until they’re lightly golden—not too dark. Keep an eye on them; you want the cookies to stay soft in the center so they’re ready for their chocolate topping.

Step 8: Add Chocolate Kiss and Claws

As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, immediately press one chocolate kiss into the center of each warm cookie. While the chocolate is still soft, place two mini chocolate chips on either side of the kiss to mimic adorable bear claws. This little detail transforms them into true Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies.

Step 9: Cool Completely

Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 5 minutes, so they set just enough to hold their shape. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Waiting is the hardest part, but it’s essential for perfectly set blossoms that hold together beautifully.

How to Serve Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

Garnishes

Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are cute as can be just as they are, but you can take them over the top by dusting with a little powdered sugar or serving with a drizzle of melted chocolate for a double-chocolate treat. A sprinkling of flaky sea salt right after adding the chocolate kiss is also downright magical if you love a salty-sweet bite.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair effortlessly with a chilled glass of milk, hot cocoa, or a creamy coffee for grown-ups. Set out a big plate alongside fresh fruit slices or berries to add color and brightness to your dessert spread. If you’re serving them at a party, a platter of assorted finger sandwiches or a bowl of crunchy popcorn makes the perfect contrast to their sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

Lean into the adorable bear paw theme by arranging your cookies on a rustic wooden board or on green parchment “grass.” For kids’ parties, wrap each Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookie in clear cellophane and tie with a ribbon as a take-home treat. Stack them tall on a cake stand or plate them with other animal-themed goodies for an instant dessert centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies soft and fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll keep for several days, and actually get even chewier by day two. If you live in a humid climate, toss a slice of bread in the container with your cookies—the bread will keep them perfectly soft.

Freezing

Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies freeze beautifully! Once cooled completely, layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a container or zip-top freezer bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to two months. You can even freeze unbaked dough balls (skip rolling in sugar until baking time) for warm cookies on demand.

Reheating

If you like your cookies a little warm and melty, pop one in the microwave for about 10 seconds before enjoying. If serving a crowd, arrange the cookies on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 275°F oven for 5 minutes—the chocolate will soften and the kitchen will smell amazing.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add a little extra crunch and more peanutty texture, which can make your Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies even more exciting. Just be aware that the cookies might spread a touch less thanks to the extra bits.

Are these cookies peanut allergy friendly?

You can swap in almond butter or sunflower seed butter for the peanut butter; both work beautifully and are delicious alternatives. Just check your other ingredients to make sure they’re safe for your allergy needs.

How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking helps prevent excess spreading and gives you a thicker, chewier Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookie. Don’t skip this step if you want picture-perfect paws!

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a good quality measure-for-measure gluten-free flour blend for the regular all-purpose flour. The rest of the Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies recipe stays the same and yields nearly identical results.

How long do Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay soft and tasty for up to five days—if they last that long! They also hold up well to freezing, so don’t hesitate to bake a double batch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to bring both smiles and scrumptiousness to your kitchen, these Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are sure to be a new favorite. They’re playful, full of classic peanut butter and chocolate flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Give this recipe a try and see how quickly they disappear from your cookie jar!