Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

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Introduction:

If you’re looking for a cookie recipe that takes indulgence to the next level, look no further than Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies. This delectable treat combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate with a surprise Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup hidden inside each cookie. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth or impressing your guests, these cookies are guaranteed to be a hit.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter: Adds a rich, nutty flavor.
  • 1/2 cup butter, softened: For a tender and chewy texture.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough.
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar: Provides depth of flavor and chewiness.
  • 1 large egg: Binds the dough together.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cookie dough.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a light and fluffy texture.
  • 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: Adds a rich chocolatey bite.
  • 12 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: The star of the recipe, providing a creamy surprise inside.

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips.
  4. Stuff Cookies: Unwrap the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and set aside. Scoop about 1.5 tablespoons of cookie dough, flatten it slightly in your hand, and place a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup in the center. Wrap the dough around the cup and roll into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  5. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Storage Tips for Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies:

Serving Tips:

  1. Warm and Gooey: For the ultimate indulgence, enjoy these cookies warm. The Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups inside will be delightfully gooey, making each bite a rich, creamy experience.
  2. Pair with Milk: Serve your cookies with a cold glass of milk to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavors of the peanut butter and chocolate.
  3. Presentation: Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or cookie jar for a charming presentation. These treats are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or as a special homemade gift.
  4. Portion Control: Consider serving these cookies in small, manageable portions, especially if you’re hosting a gathering. Their rich and indulgent nature means a little goes a long way.

Storage Tips:

  1. Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. This will help maintain their freshness and chewy texture.
  2. Avoid Overlapping: Place parchment paper or wax paper between layers of cookies to prevent them from sticking together and to preserve their shape.
  3. Freezing for Later: To extend their shelf life, freeze the cookies for up to three months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  4. Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw cookies at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. For a warm treat, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

    Variations for Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies:

    1. Reese’s Pieces Stuffed Cookies

    • Ingredients: Swap out Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for Reese’s Pieces.
    • Instructions: Place a handful of Reese’s Pieces in the center of the dough instead of a whole cup. You’ll get a burst of peanut butter and candy-coated chocolate in every bite.

    2. Peanut Butter Cup and Pretzel Cookies

    • Ingredients: Add crushed pretzels to the cookie dough.
    • Instructions: Incorporate 1/2 cup of crushed pretzels into the dough for a salty-sweet crunch. The pretzels will add a delightful texture contrast and enhance the overall flavor.

    3. S’mores Stuffed Cookies

    • Ingredients: Replace Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with mini marshmallows and graham cracker pieces.
    • Instructions: Stuff each cookie with a mix of mini marshmallows and small pieces of graham crackers. You can also add chocolate chips to replicate the s’mores experience.

    4. Mint Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies

    • Ingredients: Add mint chocolate chips and a few drops of peppermint extract.
    • Instructions: Fold 1/2 cup of mint chocolate chips into the dough and add 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty twist. This variation pairs wonderfully with the rich peanut butter flavor.

    5. Nutty Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookies

    • Ingredients: Mix in chopped nuts such as peanuts, almonds, or walnuts.
    • Instructions: Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the dough for an extra crunch and nutty flavor. You can use a single type of nut or a mix for a more complex texture.

    6. White Chocolate and Cranberry Peanut Butter Cookies

    • Ingredients: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate chips and add dried cranberries.
    • Instructions: Fold 1/2 cup of white chocolate chips and 1/2 cup of dried cranberries into the dough. This combination adds a tart and sweet flavor contrast to the creamy peanut butter.

    7. Salted Caramel Stuffed Cookies

    • Ingredients: Use caramel candies instead of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and sprinkle with sea salt.
    • Instructions: Stuff each cookie with a caramel candy. After baking, sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie while still warm to create a delicious salty-sweet balance.

    8. Almond Joy Stuffed Cookies

    • Ingredients: Replace Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with Almond Joy bars.
    • Instructions: Cut Almond Joy bars into smaller pieces and use them in place of Reese’s. The combination of coconut, almonds, and chocolate will add a tropical flair to your cookies.

Conclusion:

Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies are a decadent twist on a classic favorite, perfect for any occasion. The creamy, peanut butter-filled center of each cookie will melt in your mouth, providing a delightful surprise in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special event or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies are sure to satisfy. Enjoy the irresistible combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups in every delicious bite!

FAQ’s About Reese’s Stuffed Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies:

  1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
    • Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter if you prefer added texture. It will provide a bit more crunch in the cookie dough.
  2. What type of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups should I use?
    • You can use regular Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for a classic taste, but mini or king-size cups also work well. Ensure that the size fits comfortably within your cookie dough ball.
  3. Can I make these cookies without chocolate chips?
    • Yes, you can omit the chocolate chips if you prefer. The cookies will still be delicious, with the Reese’s providing plenty of chocolate flavor.
  4. How do I prevent the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups from melting too much?
    • To prevent excessive melting, avoid overbaking the cookies. The centers should still be soft when you remove them from the oven. Also, ensure the Reese’s are fully encased in dough to minimize melting.
  5. Can I freeze the cookie dough for later use?
    • Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough. Scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the dough balls to an airtight container or freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time.
  6. How long do these cookies stay fresh?
    • When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months.
  7. Can I use other types of candy in place of Reese’s?
    • Yes, you can substitute Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups with other candy bars or treats such as caramel squares, chocolate truffles, or even mini Snickers bars for a different flavor profile.
  8. What can I use instead of an egg to make these cookies vegan?
    • To make these cookies vegan, use an egg substitute such as a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or a commercial egg replacer.
  9. Can I use a different type of flour?
    • While all-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, you can try using a gluten-free flour blend if you need a gluten-free option. Be sure to use a blend that is designed for baking to ensure the best texture.
  10. How can I make the cookies softer or chewier?
    • For softer, chewier cookies, consider slightly underbaking them so they remain soft in the center. You can also increase the amount of brown sugar in the recipe, as it adds moisture and chewiness.

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