Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the creamy peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them 2 inches apart on your prepared baking sheet.
- Use the back of a fork to flatten each ball slightly, creating a crisscross pattern on top.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Best ways to enjoy it
These cookies are delectable on their own, but you can elevate your dessert experience by pairing them with a tall glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a fun twist, serve them warm and topped with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the flavors even further.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week this way. If you want to enjoy them later, you can freeze the dough before baking; just roll into balls and place in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to bake, bake directly from frozen—just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Helpful cooking tips
- Don’t overmix the dough once you’ve added the dry ingredients; this will keep your cookies soft.
- For an extra touch of flair, try drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or adding chopped nuts for added texture.
- If you prefer a more intense peanut butter flavor, opt for a peanut butter with no added sugar or salt.
Creative twists
Feel free to get adventurous with this classic recipe! You can substitute the Reese’s cups for other mix-ins like chopped Snickers or M&Ms. For a healthier option, consider replacing half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, or even try using natural nut butter variations such as almond or cashew butter for a different taste.
Common questions
What is the total prep and bake time for these cookies?
The total time to prepare and bake these cookies is about 20-30 minutes, including cooling time.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Absolutely! Crunchy peanut butter can add a delightful texture to your cookies.
How should I store leftover cookies for freshness?
Keep your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage.
Indulge in these Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies, and you’re sure to make lasting memories with every bite!
