Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that’s not just sweet but also incredibly fun to eat, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite: Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! These delightful treats are soft and chewy, bursting with the rich flavors of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and those iconic Reese’s Pieces. What makes them truly special is the creamy cheesecake center that creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, these cookies will have everyone raving about how delicious they are. They’re not just desserts; they’re an adventure in every bite! So gather your loved ones and get ready to bake up some happiness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll whip these cookies up in no time, even on a busy afternoon.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the gooey centers and colorful candy pieces.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the cheesecake filling ahead of time and store it in the freezer for a quick baking session later.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of peanut butter, cream cheese, and chocolate creates an irresistible taste that no one can resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients to create these amazing cookies! Just some simple, wholesome staples that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies:

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cookie Dough

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup Reese’s Pieces
• Melted chocolate for drizzling (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the Candy: Use M&M’s or chopped nuts instead of Reese’s Pieces for a different flavor twist.
• Add Some Spice: A pinch of cinnamon in the cookie dough will add a warm spice note that pairs beautifully with chocolate.
• Go Nutty: Stir in some chopped peanuts or almond pieces into the dough for added crunch and flavor.
• Try Different Fillings: Experiment with flavored cream cheese or even cookie butter for an exciting change.

How to Make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a small bowl, mix together your softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step is crucial because a well-mixed filling ensures it will be creamy and delightful when baked inside the cookies. Once combined, scoop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them into the freezer for at least an hour. Freezing helps maintain their shape while baking!

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, beat together your softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture which gives your cookies that perfect chewy texture. Next, mix in your egg and additional vanilla extract until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while stirring gently until everything is just combined. It’s important not to overmix here; we want our cookies to stay tender!

Step 4: Add Chocolate Chips & Candy

Fold in those luscious chocolate chips and colorful Reese’s Pieces into your dough. This adds bursts of flavor throughout each cookie—what’s not to love?

Step 5: Assemble Your Cookies

Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it out in your hand. Place one frozen cheesecake filling dollop right in the center before covering it with more dough. Make sure to seal those edges well so that none of that wonderful filling escapes during baking.

Step 6: Bake & Enjoy!

Arrange your cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space between them (they’ll spread out!). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-14 minutes or until the edges are golden brown but centers look slightly underbaked—that’s where all that gooey goodness lies! Let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you like extra indulgence, drizzle some melted chocolate on top before serving these warm treats!

Now you’re ready to share these scrumptious Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies with friends and family—or keep them all to yourself if you’re feeling particularly indulgent! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Baking these cookies can be a delightful experience, especially with a few insider tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Chill the Cheesecake Filling – Freezing the cheesecake filling allows it to hold its shape while baking, ensuring that you get a gooey center without it melting away completely into the cookie dough.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough – Mixing just until combined helps maintain a soft and chewy texture in your cookies. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Space Them Out on the Baking Sheet – Giving your cookies enough space on the baking sheet prevents them from merging into one giant cookie. Aim for about 2 inches apart for perfect individual treats.

• Experiment with Mix-Ins – Feel free to get creative! Adding nuts like chopped peanuts or even butterscotch chips can give your cookies an extra layer of flavor and texture that complements the peanut butter goodness.

• Store Properly for Freshness – To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for later enjoyment—just remember to warm them up slightly before serving!

How to Serve Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

These delectable cookies are not only scrumptious but also versatile when it comes to presentation. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or simply treating yourself, here are some ideas on how to serve them beautifully.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of melted chocolate – A simple drizzle adds an elegant touch and enhances the chocolate flavor.
• Sprinkle of sea salt – A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt elevates the sweet and salty combination, bringing out the flavors even more.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

• Fresh strawberries – The bright acidity of fresh strawberries balances the richness of the cookies, providing a refreshing side that enhances the overall dessert experience.

• Coffee or tea – Pairing these cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea can transform your treat into a cozy afternoon delight, making it perfect for relaxing moments.

• Milkshake – A thick milkshake (chocolate or peanut butter flavored) can complement the flavors of your cookies beautifully, making for an indulgent dessert experience.

Now that you know how to make and serve these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies, it’s time to gather your ingredients and enjoy this delicious treat! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious treat whenever the craving strikes. With a bit of planning, you can have these delightful cookies ready to go at a moment’s notice!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Place unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 3 months.
• Bake directly from frozen; just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

• To reheat chilled cookies, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• For frozen cookies, microwave on low power for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions people might have about this recipe.

Can I use different fillings for my Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fillings like chocolate ganache or fruit preserves. Just ensure they complement the flavors of peanut butter and chocolate.

How do I ensure my Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies stay soft and chewy?

To maintain that soft and chewy texture, avoid overbaking the cookies. They should be golden around the edges but still slightly undercooked in the center when you pull them out of the oven.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for proper structure.

How long does it take to make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

The total time is about 1 hour and 27 minutes, including preparation and baking. The freezing step adds extra time but is well worth it!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! They’re not only a treat for your taste buds but also a fun way to share love with family and friends. Enjoy every gooey bite, and don’t hesitate to try different variations as you get comfortable with the recipe. Happy baking!