You know that feeling when the first whiff of freshly baked cookies fills your home, enticing everyone from every corner? That’s exactly what I experienced when I decided to whip up a batch of REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES. Imagine warm, gooey chocolate chips mingling with the rich, creamy goodness of Reese’s cups—all cloaked in a soft, chewy cookie. This delightful combination is not just a treat; it’s an adventure in every bite.
Finding a dessert that caters to both chocolate lovers and peanut butter fans often feels daunting, but this irresistible recipe nails it effortlessly. With no more than 10-12 minutes in the oven, you can turn simple ingredients into a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for impressing guests or satisfying late-night cravings. So, let’s dive into the fun and deliciousness of baking these cookies that will bring smiles all around your kitchen!
Why are these REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES a must-try?
Decadent flavors: Indulge in the irresistible mix of creamy peanut butter and rich chocolate that satisfies any sweet tooth.
Quick baking time: With just 10-12 minutes in the oven, you’ll have fresh cookies ready in no time!
Crowd-pleaser: These cookies are sure to disappear at any gathering—perfect for parties or family treats!
Easy to make: The straightforward steps ensure anyone can whip them up, regardless of baking experience.
Unexpected delight: The surprise of a melted Reese’s cup in the center adds a fun twist that everyone will love!
REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create these irresistible treats!
For the Cookie Dough
• ¾ cup brown sugar – Adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the cookies.
• ¾ cup white sugar – Balances the sweetness and contributes to the dough’s texture.
• ½ cup butter, room temp – Enhances moisture and supports a chewy bite.
• ½ cup shortening – Helps create a tender cookie that holds its shape.
• 3 eggs – Provides structure and moisture to the cookies.
• 2 tsp vanilla – Infuses a delightful aroma that enhances the overall flavor.
• 3 cups flour – The backbone of the cookie, giving it a fluffy texture.
• 2 tsp cornstarch – Keeps the cookies soft and chewy, making them delightful to eat.
• 1 tsp baking soda – A leavening agent that aids in a perfect rise.
• ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates the flavors.
For the Chocolate
• 1 ½ cups mini chocolate chips – Adds pockets of chocolatey goodness throughout the dough.
• 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips – Rich dark chocolate flavor that perfectly complements the cookie base.
For the Center Surprise
• 16 Reese’s cups – The star of the show; a creamy, chocolatey delight that melts into your cookie!
With these ingredients, your REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES will be nothing short of magical. Happy baking!
How to Make REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This essential first step ensures that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly gooey.
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Cream together the brown sugar, white sugar, butter, and shortening in a large bowl. Mix until smooth and fluffy, creating a delightful base for your cookies.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time. Add each egg slowly, then stir in the vanilla for a burst of flavor that will shine through in every bite.
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Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This step ensures your dry ingredients are well combined, leading to a fluffy cookie texture.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix well until the dough comes together, allowing the moisture to bind perfectly with the flour.
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Fold in both the mini chocolate chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips. This luxurious addition creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
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Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto a baking sheet. Make sure to leave space between each dough ball for the cookies to spread while baking.
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Press a Reese’s cup into the center of each dough ball. This surprise ingredient is what sets these cookies apart, infusing them with creamy goodness.
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Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown. Keep a close eye on them; the aroma will tempt you before they’re even done!
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Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up while still warm and gooey.
Optional: Sprinkle with a touch of sea salt before serving for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and chewy.
Fridge: For longer freshness, place the container in the fridge, where the cookies can stay good for up to a week. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: Freeze unbaked cookie dough in portioned balls for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a minute or two to the baking time for perfectly fresh cookies anytime.
Reheating: To warm up baked cookies, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, reviving that gooey, melt-in-your-mouth goodness and making them a fantastic treat even days later!
REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to elevate your baking experience by personalizing these delightful cookies!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate chips for a brilliant non-dairy version. Your cookies will still be irresistibly delicious!
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Nut-Free: Swap out any peanuts with sunflower seed butter if allergies are a concern, ensuring everyone can enjoy these treats without worry.
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Whole Grain: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition; just adjust the liquid slightly for perfect dough consistency. It adds a wonderful nutty flavor to the cookies!
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Extra Crunch: Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for a delightful crunch in every bite. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures takes these cookies to the next level.
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Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or cinnamon for a surprising yet pleasant heat. This unexpected flavor lift will make your cookies unforgettable!
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Vegan: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and plant-based butter. You won’t miss the eggs at all; instead, enjoy the rich, creamy flavor!
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Caramel Love: Drizzle melted caramel over the top of the cookies just after baking. The warm caramel will create a gooey, sweet experience that’s simply divine.
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Flavored Chocolate: Try using mint chocolate chips or peanut butter chips instead of semi-sweet and mini chocolate chips. Each bite will be packed with unique flavor surprises, making every cookie adventure worthwhile!
What to Serve with REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES?
There’s nothing quite like the indulgence of warm cookies, and pairing them with the right accompaniments makes for an unforgettable treat experience.
- Cold Milk: The classic choice! A chilled glass of milk brings out the rich chocolate and peanut butter flavors perfectly.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop atop your warm cookie for a delightful melting experience that elevates the dessert to new heights.
- Coffee: A rich coffee balance juxtaposes the sweetness of the cookies, creating an enjoyable afternoon treat for all coffee lovers.
Pairing your cookies with something sweet like ice cream can create a delicious sundae experience, especially for warm days. The contrast of temperatures and flavors is bound to win over hearts (and taste buds).
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over your cookies for an extra dose of indulgence that’s perfect for chocolate enthusiasts.
- Peanut Butter Drizzle: A swirl of creamy peanut butter sauce will enhance the cookie’s flavors and add an extra layer of richness.
- Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries adds a refreshing tartness, balancing the sweetness of the cookies in a delightful way.
Whether you’re enjoying them solo or sharing at gatherings, these pairings create plush, layered taste moments that will have everyone coming back for more!
Make Ahead Options
These REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES are perfect for meal prep, making them a delightful choice for busy weeknights! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow steps 1-6, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, ensure the dough is stored in a cool environment to keep the ingredients fresh. When you’re ready to bake, scoop the dough and press a Reese’s cup into the center right before popping them into the oven. This way, you’ll have warm, freshly baked cookies with minimal effort during the week!
Expert Tips for REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for smoother dough that combines evenly.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender and soft.
- Reese’s Placement: Press the Reese’s cups gently into the dough balls, but don’t push too hard; otherwise, they might sink too far during baking.
- Watch the Baking Time: Check the cookies at the 10-minute mark. They should be golden around the edges but slightly soft in the center, ensuring a perfect chewy texture.
- Cooling Patience: Let the cookies cool a few minutes on the baking sheet; this helps them set without losing their gooey goodness that everyone will love!
REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Reese’s cups for my cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting Reese’s cups, look for those that are fresh and without any discoloration or damage on the wrapper. The classic mini cups work beautifully, but you can experiment with other varieties like the big cups or even seasonal flavors for a fun twist!
How should I store my baked cookies?
To keep your REESE’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES soft and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing, as moisture from warm cookies can make them soggy. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week—just remember to let them come to room temperature again before indulging!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! Freezing cookie dough is a fantastic way to have freshly baked cookies ready on demand. Portion the dough into tablespoon-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop them in the oven for a couple of extra minutes.
What should I do if my cookies are spread too much?
If you find your cookies are spreading too much, there are a couple of easy fixes! First, make sure your butter isn’t too warm; it should be at room temperature, not melted. If your dough seems too soft, chilling it in the fridge for about 30 minutes can help it firm up. Lastly, check your measurements—too much butter or sugar can also lead to excessive spreading!
Are these cookies safe for individuals with nut allergies?
It’s important to be cautious! The Reese’s cups contain peanuts, so these cookies are definitely not safe for anyone with peanut allergies. If you’re looking to create a similar treat for someone with nut allergies, you can substitute the Reese’s with chocolate chips or other nut-free candies. Always check labels to ensure they’re free from cross-contamination!
How can I achieve the perfect gooey center with my cookies?
To get that desirable gooey center, make sure not to overbake your cookies; take them out of the oven when they’re slightly soft in the middle. The cookies will continue to cook on the baking sheet after removal. Also, pressing a Reese’s cup into the dough ball just before baking adds a beautiful melt-in-your-mouth experience that enhances the gooeyness!
Reese’s Chocolate Chip Cookies: The Ultimate Sinful Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the brown sugar, white sugar, butter, and shortening in a large bowl until smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
- Whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix well until the dough comes together.
- Fold in the mini chocolate chips and semi-sweet chocolate chips.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto a baking sheet, leaving space between each.
- Press a Reese's cup into the center of each dough ball.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.