Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blend the rich flavors of peanut butter with the sweet crunch of Reese’s pieces candy. Ideal for gatherings, parties, or simply indulging yourself, these cookies bring joy to any occasion. Their soft and gooey center paired with a slightly crisp edge make them irresistibly good, ensuring every bite is packed with peanut buttery goodness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet chocolatey candy creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, anyone can whip up these cookies in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a cozy evening at home, these cookies are sure to please everyone.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts or substitute different types of candy for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies maintain a perfect gooey center while having slightly crispy edges, making them texturally satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these delicious cookies, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Parchment paper
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes it easy to combine ingredients quickly and efficiently, ensuring your cookie dough is perfectly mixed without much effort.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking and helps achieve even baking for your cookies.

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Ingredients

To create these mouthwatering Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Dough

• 1 cup (2 sticks / 227 g) unsalted butter, (room temperature)
• 1½ cups (300 g) light brown sugar, (packed)
• ½ cup (129 g) creamy peanut butter
• 2 large eggs, (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Dry Ingredients

• 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

For the Mix-ins

• 1 cup (240 g) peanut butter chips
• 2 cups (376 g) Reese’s pieces

How to Make Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Line 2 large baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream the Ingredients

To the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Add the butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter.
2. Beat on medium-high speed until light and creamy (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Add the vanilla extract. Mix well to combine.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly between each addition.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients in the stand mixer. Mix on low until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Mix-ins

Gently fold in:
– The peanut butter chips
– The Reese’s pieces

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Near the end of this time, preheat your oven to 400°F.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

Using a ¼ cup cookie scoop or measuring cup:
1. Scoop out portions of dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
2. Slightly flatten each ball of dough using your hands or the bottom of a glass since these cookies will not spread much during baking.

Step 8: Bake Your Cookies

Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set and tops are golden brown. The centers should remain gooey but will continue cooking after being taken out of the oven.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes before serving to let them set properly.

Enjoy your homemade Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies!

How to Serve Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

These Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are not only delicious on their own but can also be paired with various accompaniments for an even more delightful experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cookie enjoyment.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, a cold glass of milk complements the rich peanut butter flavor and soft texture of the cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwich

• Take two cookies and sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between them. This combination creates a delightful treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the top of each cookie for an extra layer of decadence. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with the peanut butter.

Warmed Up

• Slightly warm the cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. This enhances their gooey texture and brings out the flavors even more.

Served at Parties

• Arrange these cookies on a beautiful platter for gatherings or parties. They will surely be a hit among guests, bringing smiles to everyone.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit such as apple slices or strawberries. The freshness balances out the richness of the cookies, creating a well-rounded snack.

How to Perfect Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

Perfecting your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out just right:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing.

• Don’t skip chilling the dough: Chilling the dough for 15 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.

• Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents dense cookies caused by too much flour.

• Check baking time carefully: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. Remove them from the oven when edges are set but centers remain slightly gooey for that perfect texture.

• Store properly: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh longer. They can also be frozen for later enjoyment.

Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

Pairing side dishes with these cookies can create an enjoyable dessert spread or snack table. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side that balances sweetness.

3. Chocolate Milkshake
   A thick chocolate milkshake adds an indulgent touch that complements the peanut butter flavor beautifully.

4. Trail Mix
   Create a homemade trail mix with nuts, dried fruits, and seeds for a crunchy side that adds variety to your snack time.

5. Cheese Platter
   Offer a selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie alongside crackers for savory contrast.

6. Coffee or Tea
   Serving hot beverages can enhance the flavor experience and provide warmth alongside cool cookies.

7. Pudding Cups
   Chocolate or vanilla pudding cups bring another layer of sweetness and creaminess that pairs well with cookies.

8. Ice Cream Sundae Bar
   Set up a sundae bar where guests can top their ice cream with cookie crumbles, making it fun and interactive!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the texture and flavor of your cookies.

• Skipping the chilling step: Not chilling the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much. Always chill for at least 15 minutes.
• Overmixing the dough: Mixing too long after adding flour can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for a softer texture.
• Not measuring accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups for precision.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven baking. Always preheat your oven to ensure consistent results.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect how well your dough comes together. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, layer parchment paper between cookies.

Reheating Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 5 minutes until soft.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm each cookie for about 1 minute on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies unique?

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies stand out due to their rich peanut butter flavor combined with crunchy, colorful candy pieces that add texture and sweetness.

How do I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add extra texture to your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, giving them a delightful crunch.

How long do I need to chill the dough for?

Chill the cookie dough for at least 15 minutes before baking. This helps prevent excessive spreading during baking.

Can I customize the mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or other candies along with the Reese’s pieces for added variety in your cookies.

Final Thoughts

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and versatile. You can customize them by adding different mix-ins or adjusting the sweetness level. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats!