Easy Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
There’s something irresistibly nostalgic about the combination of peanut butter and chocolate, and this Easy Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies recipe delivers just that in every bite. With a simple preparation process, these cookies are not only a crowd-pleaser but also easy to make, allowing even novice bakers to create magic in the kitchen. Whether you’re baking them for a family gathering or a quick dessert treat, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.
When I first baked these cookies, it was a rainy Saturday afternoon, and my kids were teetering on the edge of boredom. We decided to dive into the pantry to see what ingredients we had on hand. Armed with an abundance of peanut butter and a bag of Reese’s Pieces, these delightful cookies were born. The kids loved being part of the process, especially sneaking a few candies before they made it into the batter.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and indulgent flavors. The combination of creamy peanut butter and crunchy Reese’s Pieces creates a perfect balance of soft and chewy textures. It’s a quick recipe, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for last-minute dessert needs. Plus, the recipe only requires basic pantry ingredients, so you won’t need to run to the store beforehand. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gifting to a comforting afternoon snack.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list. For the peanut butter, creamy is preferred, but crunchy will add an interesting texture contrast. The Reese’s Pieces provide bursts of sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, mini chocolate chips or chopped peanut butter cups would also work brilliantly. Ensure your butter is softened for easy mixing, and use fresh baking powder for optimal lift in your cookies.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and to ensure even baking.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until smooth. Add in the sugars and beat until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
Step 3
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is fully incorporated to avoid streaks of egg in your dough.
Step 4
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined. Stir in the Reese’s Pieces until distributed evenly throughout the dough.
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Step 5
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the cookies are golden brown at the edges. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Storage Options
Once cooled, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes.
Variations & Substitutions
For a nut-free version, substitute the peanut butter with sunflower seed butter and use chocolate chips instead of Reese’s Pieces. Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough for a warm spice twist or try adding chopped nuts for added crunch. Vegans can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg, and ensure that the Reese’s substitute and butter are plant-based.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are a hit at any get-together, from family game nights to casual picnics. Serve them with a cold glass of milk for a classic treat or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. Arrange them on a dessert platter during holidays to showcase their vibrant colors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use natural peanut butter in this recipe? Yes, natural peanut butter can be used, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture of the cookies slightly. Make sure to stir the oil into the peanut butter thoroughly before adding it to your batter to maintain consistency.
Do I have to chill the dough before baking? This recipe doesn’t require dough chilling, making these cookies quick and easy to prepare. If you prefer a thicker cookie, you can chill the dough for about 30 minutes. This step is optional but can help control cookie spread.
Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! This recipe can easily be doubled or halved depending on your needs. Just ensure you correctly adjust the measurements and you have enough baking trays available for the increased batch size.
Whether you’re a lifelong peanut butter fan or just seeking a new cookie recipe to impress your guests, these delightful treats are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. Enjoy the simple pleasures of baking and sharing these cookies with loved ones!
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Easy Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup smooth peanut butter creamy
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cups Reese's Pieces
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the Reese's Pieces until evenly distributed.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
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