Introduction
Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are a mouthwatering treat that combines the best of both worlds: rich, creamy peanut butter and smooth, decadent chocolate. These cookies are inspired by the iconic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, but in a chewy, homemade cookie form. With their irresistible combination of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and chunks of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, they deliver a burst of flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a peanut butter lover or a chocolate enthusiast, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Ideal for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to a cozy afternoon snack—these cookies bring a gourmet touch to a classic favorite. Their thick, soft texture and perfect balance of peanut butter and chocolate make them an indulgent dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.
The History of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, the iconic candy that inspired these cookies, were created by Harry Burnett Reese in 1928. Reese, a former dairy farmer, invented the treat while working for the Hershey Chocolate Company, and his creation became an instant hit. The combination of smooth milk chocolate and creamy peanut butter proved to be a winning formula, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups quickly became one of the best-selling candy bars in the United States. Over time, Reese’s has introduced numerous variations, but the classic Peanut Butter Cup remains a beloved treat. These cookies pay homage to the timeless pairing of chocolate and peanut butter, taking the original idea and transforming it into a delicious homemade cookie that captures the essence of the candy bar while adding a chewy, comforting twist.
Ingredients Breakdown
The key ingredients in Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies come together to create a rich, indulgent flavor profile. The base of the dough consists of unsalted butter, which provides a soft and rich texture, while light brown sugar adds a deep sweetness and moisture to the cookies. Granulated sugar contributes to the crispness of the cookie edges, balancing out the softness of the center. Peanut butter is the star of the show, offering that unmistakable nutty flavor and smooth texture that makes these cookies truly special. The inclusion of eggs binds the ingredients together, while vanilla extract enhances the overall sweetness and aroma. All-purpose flour makes up the bulk of the dough, providing structure, while baking soda helps the cookies rise slightly and gives them a soft, chewy texture. For the chocolate component, both chocolate chips and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are used. The chocolate chips melt into the dough, while the chopped candy adds bursts of peanut butter and chocolate in every bite. A pinch of salt helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the other flavors.
Step-by-Step Recipe
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter, 1 cup of light brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add in 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, 2 large eggs, and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
4. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until fully combined.
6. Stir in 1 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 1 cup of chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, folding them gently into the dough.
7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out the dough and roll it into balls. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Gently press down on each cookie dough ball with the back of a spoon or your fingers to slightly flatten it.
9. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set but still soft.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Perfect Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
To get the perfect chewy texture, make sure not to overbake the cookies. They should still look slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet, so resist the urge to bake them until they’re completely firm. For a more intense peanut butter flavor, you can use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy, which will also add texture to the cookies. If you want your cookies to be extra thick, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies hold their shape and prevent them from spreading too much. Feel free to add more chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups or extra chocolate chips if you prefer a higher chocolate-to-peanut butter ratio. Lastly, make sure to let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a cooling rack, as they are delicate when hot.
Variations and Customizations
There are many ways to customize Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of granulated sugar or use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. For those who love a bit of extra crunch, try adding some chopped peanuts or pretzel pieces to the dough. You can also swap the semi-sweet chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor or use milk chocolate chips for a creamier, sweeter taste. If you’re in the mood for something even more indulgent, drizzle melted chocolate or peanut butter over the baked cookies for an extra layer of decadence. For a lighter alternative, you can use natural peanut butter without added sugar and replace some of the butter with coconut oil. To make these cookies gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may differ slightly. There’s no wrong way to enjoy these cookies—experiment with different combinations and find your perfect version!
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are a delicious indulgence, but they do come with a high calorie count due to the combination of butter, sugar, and peanut butter. Peanut butter does offer some nutritional benefits, such as healthy fats, protein, and essential vitamins like vitamin E and magnesium, but the added sugar and butter can make these cookies a calorie-dense treat. If you’re looking to reduce the sugar content, consider using a sugar substitute or cutting back on the amount of sugar in the recipe. You can also substitute some of the butter with healthier alternatives like coconut oil or avocado for a more nutrient-dense option. For a slightly healthier version, try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend to increase the fiber content. While these cookies may not be a health food, they can certainly be enjoyed in moderation as a part of a balanced diet. Keep in mind that they are best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than an everyday snack.
FAQ
Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I substitute regular peanut butter for the creamy peanut butter? Yes, you can use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy peanut butter if you want to add a bit of extra texture to the cookies.
Can I use different types of chocolate chips? Absolutely! You can swap out the semi-sweet chocolate chips for milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips depending on your preference.
Can I make these cookies without the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups? If you prefer a simpler chocolate peanut butter cookie, you can omit the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and just use the peanut butter chips for the chocolatey flavor.
How should I store the cookies? These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just make sure to wrap them tightly to preserve freshness.
Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
Ingredients
- ▢1 cup cold Butter cut into cubes
- ▢1 cup Brown Sugar
- ▢1/2 cup Sugar
- ▢2 large Eggs
- ▢1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract optional
- ▢3 cups Flour
- ▢1 teaspoon Cornstarch
- ▢3/4 teaspoon Baking Soda
- ▢1 teaspoon Salt
- ▢1 cup Chocolate Chips
- ▢1 1/2 cups Peanut Butter Cups chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and sugar for about 4 minutes until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the eggs and vanilla, then mix for 1 minute longer.
- Fold in the flour, cornstarch, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the chocolate chips and a heaping 1 cup of chopped peanut butter cups, reserving about 1/3 cup for topping the cookies.
- Roll the dough into 4 to 6-ounce balls. If you’re making 4-ounce balls, you’ll get about 12-13 cookies, or if you’re making 6-ounce balls, you’ll end up with 8-9 cookies.
- Place the dough balls on a parchment paper-lined, light-colored baking sheet. If you’re using dark-colored baking sheets, reduce the oven temperature to 390°F to prevent the bottoms of the cookies from getting too dark. Bake for 9-12 minutes. Be careful not to overbake, as these cookies should remain slightly soft in the center. As soon as the baking sheet is out of the oven, carefully place the remaining peanut butter cups on top of the cookies. Let the cookies sit for 10 minutes to set.
Notes
These Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cookies can be kept in an airtight container for several days. They can also be frozen in a freezer-safe gallon-sized bag for up to two months. For Gourmet Bakery-Looking Cookies:
To give your cookies a more gourmet, bakery-style appearance, I recommend adding extra chocolate chips and peanut butter cups immediately after pulling the cookies from the oven. The warmth of the cookies will cause them to slightly melt, enhancing the look and showcasing the delicious ingredients inside.