Irresistible Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
There’s something incredibly comforting about the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your home, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies take that delight to a whole new level. Imagine soft, chewy cookies filled with creamy peanut butter and chunks of delicious Reese’s peanut butter cups. These cookies are not just a treat; they’re an experience that melts in your mouth, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special moment, or simply indulging on a quiet evening at home, these cookies are sure to bring joy.
I love how versatile these Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies can be—they’re a hit with kids and adults alike! Plus, they’re easy enough to whip up on a whim when you need something sweet. So let’s get started on this delightful baking adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Irresistible flavor: The combination of peanut butter and chocolate creates a classic taste that everyone loves.
– Quick to make: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have warm cookies ready in no time.
– Perfectly chewy: These cookies stay soft and chewy, making each bite a delight.
– Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins or toppings to make these cookies uniquely yours.
– Crowd-pleaser: Whether for parties or family gatherings, these cookies are sure to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Cookie Dough
– 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (212 grams)
– 1/2 cup salted butter (4 ounces, room temperature)
– 1 cup packed dark brown sugar (200 grams)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (3 grams)
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (2 grams)
– 1 large egg
– 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract (6 grams)
– 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (163 grams)
– 2 cups quartered miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups (295 grams)
– 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips (86 grams)
For Optional Drizzle
– 1/3 cup chocolate chips
Variations
Feel free to get creative with your cookies! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:
– Swap the nut butter: Try almond or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
– Add some crunch: Mix in chopped nuts like peanuts or walnuts for added texture.
– Experiment with flavors: Use flavored extracts like almond or maple instead of vanilla for a unique twist.
– Go gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
How to Make Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF. This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden color.
Step 2: Cream Together Peanut Butter and Butter
In a stand mixer, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened salted butter. Beat them together until they’re well blended. This step is crucial as it creates a smooth base for your cookie dough.
Step 3: Mix in Sugar and Eggs
Next, add in the packed dark brown sugar along with the baking soda and baking powder. Beat until combined. Then, incorporate the large egg and vanilla extract. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly will help create a rich flavor in every cookie.
Step 4: Add Flour and Mix-ins
Gradually add the all-purpose flour into the mixture and mix just until combined—be careful not to overmix! Once combined, gently stir in the quartered miniature Reese’s peanut butter cups and mini chocolate chips. These additions will provide bursts of flavor in each bite.
Step 5: Scoop the Cookie Dough
Using a cookie scoop (about 1 ½ inches thick), scoop out portions of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets. Ensure they’re spaced apart as these cookies won’t spread much during baking.
Step 6: Shape Your Cookies
Lightly press down on each cookie dough ball using a glass dipped in sugar. This gives your cookies a lovely shape while ensuring they bake evenly.
Step 7: Bake
Place the baking sheets in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them—overbaking can lead to dry cookies!
Step 8: Cool Down
Once baked, allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 3–5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This helps them set perfectly while maintaining softness.
Step 9: Optional Chocolate Drizzle
If you’re feeling extra indulgent, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave using short intervals until smooth. Drizzle this melted chocolate over your cooled cookies for an added touch of sweetness.
Step 10: Store Your Treats
Once everything is set and cool, store your delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies in an airtight container. Enjoy them fresh or share with loved ones!
Now you’re all set to enjoy these wonderful treats! Happy baking!
Pro Tips for Making Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Baking these delightful cookies is a joy, but a few tips can make your experience even better. With just a little extra attention, you can ensure that your Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies turn out perfectly every time.
– Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature. This helps to create a smooth batter and promotes even baking.
– Don’t overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of tender ones.
– Measure accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for the flour. This ensures consistent results with each batch.
– Cool on a wire rack: Allowing cookies to cool on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy as they cool down and helps maintain their texture.
– Experiment with add-ins: Feel free to swap out mini chocolate chips or add nuts if you want to customize your cookies even further.
How to Serve Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies
Serving these scrumptious cookies can elevate your dessert experience! They are perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying with family at home.
Garnishes
– Drizzle of melted chocolate: A simple drizzle adds an elegant touch and enhances the chocolate flavor.
– Chopped peanuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top for added crunch and a nutty finish.
Side Dishes
– Glass of cold milk: The classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate.
– Coffee: A warm cup of coffee balances the sweetness beautifully.
– Ice cream: Serve these cookies alongside vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
If you’re planning ahead, these cookies store well and can be made in advance. Here’s how to keep them fresh!
Storing Leftovers
– Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
– For longer shelf life, keep them in the refrigerator, which will last about two weeks.
Freezing
– To freeze, place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze until firm.
– Transfer into freezer-safe bags or containers, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Reheating
– To enjoy warm cookies again, preheat your oven to 350ºF. Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
– Alternatively, microwave each cookie for about 10 seconds for a quick warm-up.
FAQs
Baking questions often arise when trying new recipes. Here are some common inquiries regarding Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies.
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter can be used but may result in slightly different texture since it tends to be oilier. You might need to adjust flour slightly if the dough seems too wet.
What if I don’t have mini chocolate chips?
You can chop regular-sized chocolate chips into smaller pieces as an alternative. It will still provide that lovely chocolate flavor!
Are these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to try making these Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies! They’re not only delicious but also bring back those comforting childhood memories with every bite. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family or savoring them all by yourself! Happy baking!
Reese's Peanut Butter Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF.
- In a stand mixer, combine the creamy peanut butter and softened salted butter. Beat until well blended.
- Add the packed dark brown sugar, baking soda, and baking powder. Beat until combined. Incorporate the egg and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the all-purpose flour and mix just until combined. Stir in the quartered miniature Reese's peanut butter cups and mini chocolate chips.
- Scoop out portions of dough onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spaced apart.
- Lightly press down on each cookie dough ball using a glass dipped in sugar.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 3–5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Melt the chocolate chips for optional drizzle and drizzle over cooled cookies.
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
