Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for the cutest cookie on the block, you’ve just found it! Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies are a whimsical spin on the classic peanut butter blossom, mixing melt-in-your-mouth peanut butter cookies with playful chocolate kisses, candy eyes, and chocolate chip claws. Not only do they look absolutely adorable (yes, Instagram-worthy!), every bite is a rich swirl of nutty, chocolatey, soft, and chewy goodness. Whether you’re baking with kids, prepping a party platter, or simply looking to brighten up your cookie jar, these cookies are guaranteed to make everyone smile.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed by how just a handful of pantry staples can come together to make Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies such showstoppers. Each ingredient is a crucial piece of the flavor puzzle, and together they’re responsible for that perfect balance of softness, sweetness, and personality.

• Unsalted butter: Gives the cookies a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor—make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Granulated sugar: Adds the classic sweetness and helps create a light, crisp edge.
• Brown sugar: Provides depth of flavor and keeps the cookies moist and chewy.
• Creamy peanut butter: Is the heart of the recipe, delivering that signature nutty taste and soft bite you love.
• Large egg: Brings everything together and helps the cookies rise and hold their shape.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors, adding a subtle warmth that ties everything together.
• All-purpose flour: Gives the cookies structure and just the right amount of density.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies puff up slightly, leading to a tender crumb.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• Chocolate kisses (unwrapped): These are the classic “paw pads”—so make sure not to eat them all before decorating!
• Mini chocolate chips: Create the cutest little bear claws that make these cookies irresistible.
• Large candy eyes: Transform every treat into a personality-packed bear paw ready to steal your heart (and taste buds).

How to Make Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

Set yourself up for cookie success by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This simple prep ensures the cookies bake evenly and helps you avoid any sticky mishaps or uneven bottoms—mess-free and picture-perfect every time!

Step 2: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to blend the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter together until everything is smooth, fluffy, and well combined. This step is key to creating a soft and luscious base for your Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies. Don’t rush; a good cream makes for a dreamy dough!

Step 3: Add the Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract. These add both moisture and richness, ensuring your cookies are tender on the inside and deliciously flavored throughout. At this stage, your dough will be creamy and fragrant—irresistible already!

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This simple step distributes the leavening and salt evenly, which leads to a cookie that bakes up both flavorful and with the perfect texture.

Step 5: Combine and Mix the Dough

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir just until a soft dough forms; overmixing can lead to tough cookies. If you find the dough a bit sticky (totally normal), pop it in the fridge for about 20 minutes to make scooping easier later on.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies

Scoop out dough using a tablespoon, then roll into balls and arrange them about 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet. Use your fingers or the bottom of a glass to gently flatten each ball—this gives your Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies that classic paw pad shape.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping an eye out for lightly golden edges and set centers. You want them soft in the middle—don’t overbake! The aroma of peanut butter wafting through your kitchen will let you know they’re nearly ready.

Step 8: Decorate While Warm

When the cookies come fresh from the oven, immediately press a chocolate kiss into the center of each for the ultimate blossom effect. Place two large candy eyes above the kiss, then carefully press three mini chocolate chips at the bottom edge for bear claws. The warmth will help everything stick—work quickly and have fun!

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This short cool down helps them set so they hold their adorable shape, and you can admire your Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies in all their glory!

How to Serve Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies

Garnishes

While these cookies are already a showstopper, you can always take them up a notch. A light dusting of powdered sugar turns them into magical winter paws, or a drizzle of melted chocolate can add that extra wow factor. For themed parties, a tiny bow or ribbon on the plate amps up the cuteness level.

Side Dishes

Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies shine alongside a tall glass of cold milk (classic!), rich hot chocolate, or even a cup of coffee for grown-up gatherings. If you’re assembling a dessert table, try pairing them with fresh fruit skewers or a frosty scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or birthdays, arrange the cookies on a bear-shaped platter, or wrap them individually in cellophane bags tied with a paw print ribbon. You can even stack them up with other animal paw-themed treats for a woodland creature dessert spread that’s both memorable and Instagram-ready.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place your Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay soft and fresh for up to five days. If you’re stacking the cookies, a piece of parchment between layers prevents sticking and preserves the paw-shaped decorations.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zipper bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months. If you prefer, you can also freeze unbaked dough balls (just add decorations after baking).

Reheating

For just-baked softness, let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in a low oven (about 275°F) for 3 to 5 minutes. This revives their signature texture and melts the chocolate just enough for gooey, irresistible results.

FAQs

Can I use chunky peanut butter instead of creamy?

Absolutely! Chunky peanut butter will add extra texture and a subtle crunch to your Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies, making them even more interesting. Just note that the dough may be slightly less smooth, but the flavor will be delicious.

What if I don’t have candy eyes for decoration?

No problem! Swap candy eyes for mini marshmallows dotted with melted chocolate, or use extra mini chocolate chips in their place. The cookies will still look adorable and taste fantastic.

Can I make these gluten free?

Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a good-quality gluten-free baking blend designed for 1:1 replacement. The texture may change slightly, but the Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies will still be a huge hit.

How can I involve kids in making these cookies?

Kids will love helping shape the dough, pressing in the chocolate kisses, and adding the candy eyes and claws. It’s a perfect activity for little hands and helps them feel like part of the magical cookie creation process.

Are there any nut-free alternatives?

If allergies are a concern, try using sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter in place of peanut butter. The flavor will be a bit different, but you’ll still get soft, delicious Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to bring big smiles and warm, peanut-buttery joy to your kitchen, Bear Paw Peanut Butter Blossom Cookies simply can’t be beat. Whip up a batch, get creative with your decorations, and watch as these playful treats disappear faster than you can say “bear paws!” Happy baking!

Print