Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are the perfect indulgence for anyone with a sweet tooth. Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie with a creamy cheesecake center and the rich, familiar taste of peanut butter chocolate in every mouthful. These cookies are a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, combining the classic cookie with the decadence of a cheesecake. They are not only scrumptious but also incredibly easy to make with a simple, step-by-step recipe that will impress family and friends alike. If you haven’t tried making these cookies yet, it’s high time you do!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies. For starters, the prep is quick and simple, making it ideal for those bustling weekdays when you need a sweet treat in no time. The recipe is family-friendly, allowing little hands to help mix and drop the cookie dough onto the baking sheet. You’ll also appreciate the minimal ingredients required—most of which are pantry staples—making it easier to whip up a batch whenever the craving strikes. Plus, who can resist the decadent pairing of chocolate and peanut butter?

Ingredients for Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Gathering the ingredients for these delightful cookies is a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cookie Dough:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped

For the Cheesecake Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, chopped

Step-by-Step Directions for Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cookie removal and clean-up.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that your cookies have the right amount of rise and texture. Set your dry ingredients aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy.
Incorporate the Cream Cheese: Beat in the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until it’s fully incorporated into the mixture. Gradually add in the dry ingredients we set aside earlier and mix until just combined. Finally, gently stir in the chopped mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, adding a crunchy, chocolatey touch to your dough.
Prepare the Cheesecake Filling: For the cheesecake filling, combine the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adding a touch of sweetness here enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
Form the Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie using your thumb or the back of a measuring spoon.
Fill with Cheesecake Mixture: Spoon a small amount of the cheesecake filling into each indentation, carefully filling it to the brim without overflowing.
Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown.
Cool Down: Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few moments before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step ensures they will maintain their shape and chewy texture.

Tips & Tricks

To elevate your Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies experience, consider these essential tips. First, make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature; this leads to a smoother dough and filling. Additionally, if you’d like extra chocolate, incorporate chocolate chips into the cookie dough. If you prefer the cookies a little more cake-like, you can chill the dough beforehand, which also helps intensify the flavors. Remember, under-baking the cookies slightly will ensure that they remain soft and gooey in the center!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

These cookies are delightful on their own but can be even more enjoyable when paired with complementary treats. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. A glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee can also elevate the experience, making the rich flavors pop. For a fun presentation, arrange the cookies on a colorful platter, dust them with powdered sugar, or drizzle melted chocolate over them for a stunning finish.

Nutritional Information

While these delightful Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are a treat, it’s good to be mindful of their nutritional content. On average, each cookie contains approximately 200-250 calories, with a healthy dose of fats and carbohydrates. Given the indulgent nature of these cookies, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation; they’re perfect for special occasions or simply when you need a sweet pick-me-up.

Storing Tips & Variations for Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but their soft, gooey texture is best enjoyed fresh. If you want to prepare them in advance, these cookies freeze beautifully. Just freeze the unbaked cookie dough portion and bake straight from the freezer when you crave a sweet treat. For a healthier twist, consider swapping out the white sugar for coconut sugar or using whole wheat flour instead. You can even replace the mini Reese’s with other nut butter chocolates to add variety!

Conclusion for Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are a must-try recipe that combines the best of both worlds: the chewiness of cookies and the indulgence of cheesecake. With their gooey centers and delightful crunch from the peanut butter cups, these cookies will satisfy any sweet tooth. Don’t hesitate; gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this scrumptious baking adventure. Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of peanut butter candies in these cookies?

Yes! You can easily swap out mini Reese’s with any preferred nut butter chocolates, such as Snickers or Butterfinger pieces, to create a different flavor profile.

2. What’s the best way to soften cream cheese quickly?

To soften cream cheese quickly, cut it into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave it for 10-15 seconds, checking to avoid melting.

3. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it is suitable for baking to achieve great results.

4. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

To prevent spreading, chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps to solidify the fats in the dough.

5. Is it necessary to use parchment paper?

Using parchment paper is recommended as it helps to prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup a lot easier!