Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Who can resist the heavenly combination of peanut butter and chocolate? Now, imagine sinking your teeth into a rich chocolate chip cookie that hides a Reese’s peanut butter cup surprise inside! These Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are the perfect treat for any peanut butter and chocolate lover. The gooey, chewy cookie with a creamy, peanut butter core creates a delightful experience you’ll want to repeat over and over.

Overview of Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

This recipe is designed to combine the best of both worlds—classic chocolate chip cookies and the indulgence of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. The cookies are baked to golden perfection while maintaining a soft and chewy texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy peanut butter filling.

These cookies are ideal for:

• Holiday gatherings
• Special events
• Indulging in a sweet treat anytime!

Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a perfect blend of textures: the crispy cookie edges, chewy centers, and soft peanut butter filling. If you’re a fan of the classic peanut butter cup and chocolate chip combo, this recipe will soon become your favorite.

Brief History of Peanut Butter and Chocolate Chip Cookies

The Chocolate Chip Cookie Origins

The beloved chocolate chip cookie traces back to the 1930s when Ruth Wakefield invented the original recipe at her Toll House Inn. It became an instant hit, and the chocolate chip cookie has since evolved into one of the most popular cookies worldwide.

The Rise of Peanut Butter in Desserts

Peanut butter was first introduced in the late 19th century, but it wasn’t until the 1920s that peanut butter gained widespread popularity as an ingredient in cookies. Peanut butter cookies are now a staple in many American households, loved for their rich, nutty flavor.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: A Sweet Creation

Invented in 1928 by H.B. Reese, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups quickly became a favorite treat. Combining milk chocolate with smooth peanut butter, this candy became a favorite in households across the United States. Incorporating Reese’s into desserts like cookies has been a natural progression, leading to innovative recipes like these Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Cool Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: ~40 minutes
• Servings: 24 cookies
• Yield: Two dozen cookies (depending on size)

Essential Tools and Equipment

For this recipe, it’s essential to use the right equipment to ensure perfect cookies every time. Here’s a list of the key tools you’ll need:

• Mixing Bowls – To mix wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Stand Mixer (or Hand Mixer) – For creaming the butter, sugars, and peanut butter.
• Baking Sheets – Lined with parchment paper for easy cookie removal.
• Cookie Scoop – Ensures evenly sized cookies.
• Cooling Rack – Allows the cookies to cool properly without getting soggy.
• Spatula – For removing the cookies from the baking sheet.

Each tool plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and taste for your cookies.

Importance of Each Tool

1. Mixing Bowls
   Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients helps combine everything evenly without overmixing, ensuring a consistent dough.
2. Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer
   This tool allows you to achieve the perfect creamy consistency for your butter, peanut butter, and sugars, which leads to fluffier, lighter cookies.
3. Baking Sheets and Parchment Paper
   Parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking to the sheet, while a high-quality baking sheet ensures even heat distribution.
4. Cookie Scoop
   A cookie scoop ensures uniform cookie sizes, which is critical for even baking. Cookies of the same size will bake at the same rate, avoiding overbaked or underbaked cookies.
5. Cooling Rack
   Placing cookies on a cooling rack allows air to circulate around them, preventing the bottoms from getting soggy and helping the cookies maintain their soft, chewy texture.

Preparation Tips for Perfect Cookies

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
   Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This ensures even mixing and prevents lumps in the dough.
2. Don’t Overmix the Dough
   Overmixing the cookie dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
3. Chill the Dough
   For the best results, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. Chilling solidifies the fats, leading to a thicker cookie that spreads less during baking.
4. Monitor Baking Time Carefully
   Bake the cookies for just the right amount of time. Overbaking will make them crunchy rather than chewy. Aim for 10-12 minutes, removing them when the edges are golden brown, but the centers are still soft.

Ingredients List

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 24 mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (unwrapped)

Note: For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a stand mixer or hand mixer. Beat until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
4. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.

Step 2: Add Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

1. Scoop out about 1 ½ tablespoons of cookie dough using a cookie scoop. Flatten the dough slightly in the palm of your hand.
2. Place a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup in the center of the dough and gently wrap the dough around the candy. Roll it into a ball, ensuring the peanut butter cup is fully covered.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
3. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the cookies to cool completely on the cooling rack for about 10 minutes.
2. Serve the cookies while slightly warm for the best experience, or store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to 5 days.

Side Dish Recommendations

While these cookies are a showstopper on their own, pairing them with complementary side dishes or drinks can elevate the overall dessert experience. Below are some excellent side dish and drink pairings for Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Milkshake Pairing

A classic chocolate peanut butter milkshake is the perfect complement to these rich cookies. Blend vanilla ice cream, peanut butter, chocolate syrup, and milk for a creamy, indulgent drink that enhances the peanut butter and chocolate flavors in the cookies.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A simple scoop of vanilla ice cream can balance the richness of the cookies. The cold, creamy texture of the ice cream pairs well with the warm, gooey cookies, making for an irresistible combination.

Hot Chocolate

For a cozy and decadent pairing, serve your cookies with a mug of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows. The deep chocolate flavor of the drink complements the chocolate chips in the cookies, while the marshmallows add a soft, sweet texture.

Fruit Platter

If you’re looking for a lighter side option, a fresh fruit platter is a refreshing way to balance the sweetness of the cookies. Berries, apple slices, or even banana slices provide a bright contrast to the richness of the cookies.

Cream Cheese Frosting Dip

Elevate your cookie experience by serving them with a side of cream cheese frosting dip. The tangy cream cheese complements the peanut butter filling, adding another layer of flavor to every bite.

Caramel Drizzle

A light caramel drizzle over the cookies or as a side dip is a great way to add a little extra sweetness and texture. The smooth caramel pairs beautifully with the chocolate chips and peanut butter, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of whipped cream on the side or as a dip for the cookies can add a light, airy element that contrasts with the dense, chewy texture of the cookies. It also cuts through the richness of the peanut butter and chocolate.

Nutty Crunch Topping

For an extra crunch, serve the cookies with a side of crushed peanuts or mixed nuts. Sprinkle the nuts over the cookies or offer them as a topping to add texture and enhance the nutty flavors of the peanut butter filling.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits

Nutritional Breakdown

Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving of these cookies (based on one cookie):

• Calories: ~350
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 25g
• Protein: 6g

Peanut Butter: Nutritional Benefits

Peanut butter is a great source of protein and healthy fats. It contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and a good amount of protein, which can help you feel full for longer. It’s also packed with important nutrients like Vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.

Dark Chocolate: Health Benefits

If you choose to use dark chocolate chips in place of semi-sweet, you’ll also get some health benefits. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and has been linked to improved heart health. It’s also known for boosting mood, which is always a bonus when enjoying a sweet treat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even though this recipe is straightforward, there are a few common mistakes you should watch out for to ensure your Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies turn out perfectly every time.

Overmixing the Dough

One of the most common mistakes in cookie-making is overmixing the dough. When you mix the dough too much, the gluten in the flour develops too much, leading to tough cookies. To avoid this, mix the dough just until the ingredients are combined.

Underbaking the Cookies

Undercooking your cookies can leave them too soft and mushy in the center. To get the perfect balance of chewy and crispy, watch the edges of the cookies carefully. When they turn golden brown, the cookies are done. The centers may still look soft, but they will continue to cook on the baking sheet as they cool.

Using Cold Ingredients

Using butter or eggs straight from the fridge is another common mistake. Cold ingredients don’t blend well together, which can result in uneven texture and consistency in your cookies. Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting the recipe.

Not Chilling the Dough

For thick, chewy cookies, chilling the dough is key. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too much while baking, resulting in flat, crispy cookies instead of soft, gooey ones. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes allows the fats to solidify, ensuring that the cookies hold their shape while baking.

Overloading the Dough with Chocolate Chips

While it might be tempting to add extra chocolate chips, overloading the dough can make it harder to shape the cookies, especially when stuffing them with Reese’s. Stick to the recommended amount to ensure the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Not Wrapping the Reese’s Properly

One of the key steps in this recipe is making sure that the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup is completely wrapped in the cookie dough. If there are any gaps, the peanut butter cup could melt and leak out during baking. To avoid this, carefully shape the dough around the Reese’s, ensuring it’s fully enclosed.

Tips, Notes, Storing, and Reheating

Tips for the Best Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Chill the Dough: As mentioned earlier, chilling the dough is key for thick, chewy cookies. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes in the fridge before shaping and baking.
• Use High-Quality Chocolate: The quality of your chocolate chips and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups makes a big difference. Opt for high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate for a richer flavor.
• Measure Your Flour Correctly: Too much flour can make the cookies dense. Use the spoon-and-level method: spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Leave enough space between the dough balls on the baking sheet (about 2 inches) to prevent the cookies from merging as they spread during baking.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: To ensure all cookies are the same size and bake evenly, use a cookie scoop to measure out the dough.

Notes

• Flavor Variations: Feel free to experiment with other types of chocolate, such as white chocolate chips or milk chocolate chips. You can also substitute Reese’s with other candy, like peanut butter M&M’s or caramel-filled chocolates.
• Peanut Butter Alternative: If you’re not a fan of peanut butter or have allergies, try using almond butter or sunflower seed butter as a replacement.
• Soft vs. Crunchy Cookies: For softer cookies, slightly underbake them and let them cool on the baking sheet. For crispier edges, bake the full recommended time and let them cool on a wire rack.

Storing the Cookies

• Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Adding a slice of bread to the container can help keep them soft by absorbing excess moisture.
• Refrigeration: If you want the cookies to last longer, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing the Cookies: These cookies freeze beautifully! After baking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, and they will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a freshly-baked taste.

Freezing the Dough

If you prefer to bake the cookies fresh when desired, freeze the dough balls instead of the baked cookies:

1. Roll the cookie dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Freeze the dough balls for about 1-2 hours until solid.
3. Transfer the frozen dough to an airtight container or freezer bag. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven, and bake the dough balls straight from the freezer, adding an extra 2-3 minutes to the bake time.

Reheating Cookies

For that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, you can reheat the cookies:

• Microwave: Pop a cookie in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm it up. This will make the peanut butter filling soft and gooey again.
• Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C), place the cookies on a baking sheet, and warm them for 5-7 minutes. This method will help the cookies maintain their crispy edges and chewy centers.

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FAQs

What makes these cookies different from regular chocolate chip cookies?

Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies take the classic chocolate chip cookie recipe to the next level by incorporating a whole Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup inside. This adds an extra layer of creamy peanut butter and makes the cookie richer and more indulgent. The combination of the chewy cookie, gooey peanut butter center, and melted chocolate chips creates a delightful balance of flavors.

Can I substitute regular peanut butter for Reese’s?

Yes, you can substitute Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with any peanut butter or peanut butter-flavored candy. Alternatively, you can also scoop regular peanut butter into the center of the cookie dough. However, using Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups provides a more structured filling and the iconic Reese’s flavor.

Why do my cookies come out flat?

If your cookies are spreading too much and coming out flat, it could be due to:

• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough helps solidify the fats, which means the cookies spread less in the oven.
• Too little flour: Make sure you’re using the correct amount of flour. Too little flour causes the cookies to spread.
• Oven temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated. Baking at too low of a temperature can cause the cookies to spread before they have a chance to set.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cookie dough up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the dough in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When ready to bake, follow the instructions for chilling the dough and baking the cookies. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months.

How do I keep my cookies soft after baking?

To keep your cookies soft, store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread or a piece of apple. The bread will release moisture, which helps keep the cookies chewy. Be sure not to refrigerate them, as that can dry them out.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and chocolate chips, are gluten-free.

Conclusion

The combination of peanut butter and chocolate has long been one of the most beloved pairings in the dessert world. With these Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, you get the best of both: a perfectly chewy, gooey chocolate chip cookie wrapped around the creamy, rich center of a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup. This recipe takes a classic treat and elevates it to something truly indulgent, making it a must-bake for any dessert enthusiast.

Baking these cookies is not just about the end result but also about the joy of creating something that brings smiles to those who taste it. Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone just starting in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward yet delivers professional-quality results. From the first step of creaming the butter and peanut butter to the final moment when you pull the golden cookies from the oven, the process is as enjoyable as the outcome.

These cookies are perfect for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to make someone feel special. They also make for great homemade gifts—imagine the joy of receiving a tin of these freshly baked treats, each bite revealing that delightful Reese’s surprise inside. The versatility of the recipe allows you to experiment with different flavor combinations, whether it’s adding extra chocolate, incorporating nuts for a crunchy texture, or even swapping out the Reese’s for another favorite candy.

Beyond the flavor and texture, what makes these cookies stand out is the sheer nostalgia they bring. The classic flavors of peanut butter and chocolate remind us of childhood memories—whether it was the first time we had a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup or a warm, fresh chocolate chip cookie from grandma’s kitchen. This recipe captures that feeling of warmth and comfort, making it more than just a dessert but an experience to savor and share.

For those concerned about dietary preferences, these cookies can easily be adapted. From gluten-free versions to substituting the Reese’s with other candies or nut butters, the flexibility of this recipe ensures that everyone can enjoy them. Even with these adjustments, you won’t lose the magic that makes these cookies so special—whether it’s the crispy edges, the chewy center, or the delightful peanut butter filling.

In addition to their deliciousness, these cookies are also an impressive dessert to serve at gatherings. The unique stuffed design is sure to spark conversation, with guests marveling at the creativity and flavor of each bite. And because they can be made in advance and stored for later, they are a convenient option for busy bakers who want to prepare something ahead of time without compromising on quality.

Finally, this recipe isn’t just about satisfying your sweet tooth—it’s about creating a moment. Whether you bake these cookies for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, they offer a chance to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade goodness. From the rich aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake to the joy of biting into that first cookie, warm from the oven, these Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are a treat that brings happiness to any occasion.

So go ahead gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and prepare to enjoy one of the most deliciously indulgent cookies you’ve ever tasted. Whether enjoyed with a tall glass of milk, paired with a scoop of ice cream, or simply savored on their own, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.

 

 

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