Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich taste of peanut butter with the colorful crunch of Reese’s pieces candy. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are not only easy to make but also satisfy sweet cravings in a big way. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, baking for your family, or just indulging yourself, these cookies promise to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet candy creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps, even novice bakers can whip up these cookies without any fuss.
- Perfect for Sharing: Bake a batch to share at parties, school events, or family gatherings; they are sure to impress!
- Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of chocolate or add nuts for extra texture.
- Great for Meal Prep: These cookies store well, making them perfect for meal prep or snacks throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes baking smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started on your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheets
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool saves time and effort by mixing ingredients thoroughly and quickly.
- Parchment paper: Using parchment paper prevents sticking and allows for easy cookie removal after baking.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you bake.
Ingredients
Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are loaded with peanut butter, peanut butter chips, and Reese’s pieces candy…a peanut butter lover’s dream!
For the Cookie 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
- 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
For the Add-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: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Add the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and creamy peanut butter.
2. Beat on medium-high speed until light and creamy (about 3-5 minutes).
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time:
1. Mix well after each addition until fully blended.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl:
1. Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, cornstarch, and kosher salt.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients.
3. Mix on low speed until just combined.
Step 5: Add Chocolatey Goodness
Fold in:
1. The peanut butter chips.
2. The Reese’s pieces candy gently until evenly distributed.
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 (200°C).
Step 7: Scoop and Shape Cookies
Using a ¼ cup cookie scoop or measuring cup:
1. Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets about 3 inches apart.
2. Slightly flatten each ball of dough using your hands or the bottom of a glass.
Step 8: Bake Your Cookies
Bake in preheated oven for 8-10 minutes:
– Look for set edges and golden tops while ensuring that centers remain gooey.
Step 9: Cooling Time
Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies!
How to Serve Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies
Serving Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies is all about enhancing their deliciousness and making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing, the creamy texture of milk complements the rich peanut butter flavors perfectly.
As Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Use two cookies to create an indulgent ice cream sandwich filled with your favorite flavor of ice cream for a fun dessert.
Warm with Chocolate Drizzle
- Drizzle melted chocolate over warm cookies for an extra touch of sweetness and elegance.
Crumbled on Top of Yogurt
- Crumble cookies into pieces and sprinkle over yogurt for a tasty breakfast or snack option.
At a Cookie Bar
- Set up a cookie bar at parties with various toppings, such as whipped cream, chocolate chips, and sprinkles, allowing guests to customize their desserts.
Gift Them in a Jar
- Layer cookies in a mason jar and tie it with a ribbon to create a sweet gift for friends or family.
How to Perfect Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies
Perfecting your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies will elevate them from good to great. Here are some essential tips to ensure your cookies turn out amazing every time.
Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
Chill the dough: Chilling helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies.
Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on the oven; remove cookies when they are slightly underbaked for that gooey center.
Store properly: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and softness longer.
Best Side Dishes for Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies can enhance the overall experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing contrast to the rich cookies, offering natural sweetness and color.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream balances the flavors beautifully while adding a cool touch.
Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats offer an elegant addition that pairs well with peanut butter.
Nutty Granola Bars: Crunchy granola bars provide texture variety and complement the cookie’s flavors nicely.
Milkshakes: A thick milkshake creates a fun, nostalgic experience when enjoyed alongside these cookies.
Hot Cocoa: Warm cocoa serves as a comforting drink that enhances the cookie’s richness on chilly days.
Peanut Butter Dip: A creamy dip made from peanut butter pairs perfectly with fresh fruits or crackers as an appetizer before dessert.
Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting balance between sweet and savory flavors alongside your cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking these Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough for 15 minutes helps the cookies maintain their shape. If you skip this step, they may spread too much.
Using cold ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cookie.
Overmixing the dough: Once you combine the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon and level method to measure flour accurately. Too much flour will make cookies dry and crumbly.
Ignoring baking times: Baking time is crucial for perfect cookies. Check them a minute or two before the suggested time; they should be golden on the edges but still soft in the center.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
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 cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds until soft.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat with a lid, warming for 1-2 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions about making Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, here are some common queries:
Can I use natural peanut butter?
Natural peanut butter can be used, but it may change the texture of your cookies. For best results, stick with creamy commercial varieties.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring that it contains xanthan gum for proper binding.
What if I don’t have cornstarch?
If you don’t have cornstarch, you can replace it with an equal amount of all-purpose flour. It won’t have quite the same effect on texture, but your cookies will still turn out great!
How long does it take to bake Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies?
Typically, they take about 8-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to customize your cookies as desired.
Final Thoughts
Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them by adding different mix-ins or adjusting sweetness levels according to your taste. We encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!
Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies
Indulge in the delightful world of Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, where creamy peanut butter meets vibrant candy-coated pieces for a treat that’s sure to please any sweet tooth. These cookies are incredibly easy to whip up, making them ideal for gatherings or simply satisfying your cravings. With a chewy texture and an irresistible combination of flavors, this cookie recipe promises to be a hit with family and friends alike. Plus, they store well, so you can enjoy them throughout the week!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (227 g), room temperature
- 1½ cups light brown sugar (300 g), packed
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (129 g)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (375 g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup peanut butter chips (240 g)
- 2 cups Reese's Pieces candy (376 g)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a stand mixer, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and peanut butter until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in the peanut butter chips and Reese's Pieces.
- Chill the dough for 15 minutes before scooping onto prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are golden; centers should remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for at least 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (25g)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg