Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. These cookies are not only packed with creamy peanut butter and sweet candy, but they also offer a unique twist that elevates your traditional cookie experience. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to be a hit with peanut butter lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of peanut butter and Reese’s pieces creates a sweet and nutty flavor profile that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies.
• Perfect Texture: The gooey center and slightly crisp edges provide a satisfying bite every time.
• Versatile Treat: Great for gatherings, lunchboxes, or as an afternoon snack, these cookies fit any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: Children will love the colorful Reese’s pieces mixed into the dough!

Tools and Preparation

Before we begin baking, let’s gather our tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer with paddle attachment
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Parchment paper
• Baking sheets

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer with paddle attachment: This tool makes it easy to cream the butter and sugars together, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup effortless.

Ingredients

To make your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, gather the following ingredients:

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

• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, add the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter. Beat on medium-high speed until light and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

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

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and kosher salt.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low until just combined.

Step 5: Fold in Chips and Candy

• Gently fold in the peanut butter chips and Reese’s pieces until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Chill Dough

• Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 400°F.

Step 7: Scoop Dough onto Baking Sheets

• Using a ¼ cup cookie scoop or measuring cup, scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets about 3 inches apart. Slightly flatten each ball of dough using your hands or the bottom of a glass since these cookies do not spread much while baking.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

• Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set and tops are golden brown. The centers should remain gooey but will firm up after cooling.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes before serving. This ensures they hold their shape while still being wonderfully soft inside.

Enjoy your homemade Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies!

How to Serve Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance your dessert experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy these tasty cookies.

With a Glass of Milk

• Pairing these cookies with a cold glass of milk enhances the peanut butter flavor and adds creaminess, balancing the sweetness.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to create an ice cream sandwich filled with your favorite ice cream flavor for an indulgent dessert that everyone will love.

On a Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter alongside other treats like brownies or fruit for a colorful dessert spread at parties or gatherings.

Drizzled with Chocolate

• Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over the cookies for an added touch of sweetness and elegance, perfect for special occasions.

Warmed Up

• Serve the cookies warm from the oven or slightly reheated in the microwave for gooey centers that melt in your mouth.

How to Perfect Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

Perfecting your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies can take your baking game to the next level. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and peanut butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough helps prevent excessive spreading while baking, ensuring thick and chewy cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on them in the oven; removing them when they’re slightly underbaked will result in gooey centers that are irresistible.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level method to avoid using too much flour, which can lead to dry cookies.

Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

To complement the rich flavors of Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, consider serving them with these delicious side dishes. Each pairing enhances the overall dessert experience.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad balances the sweetness of the cookies while adding refreshing flavors.

2. Chocolate Fondue
   Dip cookie halves into melted chocolate for an interactive dessert that adds an extra layer of fun and flavor.

3. Vanilla Ice Cream
   Classic vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully, offering a creamy contrast to the chewy texture of the cookies.

4. Milkshakes
   Blend together milk, ice cream, and cookie chunks for a delicious milkshake that complements every bite of cookie.

5. Nutty Granola Parfait
   Layer granola with yogurt and fresh fruit for a breakfast option that feels indulgent yet wholesome when paired with cookies.

6. Caramel Sauce
   Drizzle warm caramel sauce over cookies or serve it on the side for dipping, adding richness to each bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, avoiding common mistakes will help ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter.
• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much can make the cookies tough. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
• Skipping the Chill Time: Not chilling the dough can result in flat cookies. Always chill the dough for at least 15 minutes before baking.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can alter the texture. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is accurate.
• Not Allowing Cookies to Cool: Cutting into warm cookies can ruin their structure. Let them cool on the baking sheet for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

• Freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Layer with parchment paper to avoid clumping.

Reheating Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5-7 minutes to warm through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies?

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are delicious cookies made with creamy peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and colorful Reese’s pieces candy, perfect for any peanut butter lover.

How do I make my cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking and consider adding a bit more peanut butter or using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar.

Can I customize these cookies?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, swap out Reese’s pieces for M&M’s, or experiment with different nut butters for unique flavors.

How do I store leftover Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and peanut butter chips to create a vegan version of these cookies.

Final Thoughts

Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are not only a treat for your taste buds but also versatile enough to customize according to your preferences. Whether you want extra chocolate or nuts, these cookies can be tailored just how you like them. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every delicious bite!