If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s both comforting and indulgent, Reese’s Cookie Cups – Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites are your answer! Baked right in a mini muffin tin, these adorable cookie cups are filled with luscious Reese’s and topped with a melty Hershey’s kiss. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or simply a sweet pick-me-up, they’ll steal the hearts of both kids and adults alike.
Introduction
If chocolate and peanut butter are your go-to flavors, you’re in for a real treat with these Reese’s Cookie Cups – Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites. These delightful morsels combine soft, chewy peanut butter cookie dough with decadent chocolate and peanut butter goodness. They bring comfort with every gooey bite, making them a popular choice for family gatherings, celebrations, or a cozy night in. Whether you’re a baking novice or a pro, you will love how simple and satisfying this recipe is!
A Bit About the Recipe
This recipe for Reese’s Cookie Cups is a crowd-pleaser. The cookie cups are soft on the outside and packed with rich, melted chocolate and creamy peanut butter in the center. They’re easy to make and require just a few ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Plus, they look amazing on a dessert platter!
Ingredients for Reese’s Cookie Cups – Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 12 Reese’s peanut butter cups (mini size)
- 12 Hershey’s kisses
Optional Substitutions
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Nut-Free Option: Swap the Reese’s peanut butter cups with a nut-free chocolate filling and use sunflower butter instead of peanut butter.
How to Make Reese’s Cookie Cups – Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites – Step by Step
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin. This will help the cookie cups bake evenly and pop out easily.
Step 2: Mix the Dough Base
In a large bowl, beat together peanut butter, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. This forms the base of your cookie dough, providing both sweetness and a rich peanut butter flavor.
Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture, beating until smooth and fully combined. The egg helps bind the ingredients, while the vanilla adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the peanut butter mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies dense.
Step 5: Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the dough. The chocolate chips add bursts of melty chocolate in every bite.
Step 6: Shape the Cookie Cups
Spoon about 1 tablespoon of dough into each mini muffin cup, filling each one about halfway. Press the dough gently to create a small well in the center for the Reese’s peanut butter cup.
Step 7: Add Reese’s Centers
Press one mini Reese’s peanut butter cup into the center of each cup of dough, pushing it down slightly to nestle it within the cookie dough.
Step 8: Bake
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cookies have risen around the Reese’s cups.
Step 9: Add Hershey’s Kisses
Remove from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s kiss into the top of each cookie cup while they’re still warm. The residual heat will melt the kiss, creating a gooey chocolate center.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Allow the cookie cups to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Helpful Tips for Reese’s Cookie Cups – Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites
- Use Softened Butter: Ensure butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t Skip Pressing: Pressing the Reese’s cups down creates that delicious gooey center.
- Use a Cookie Scoop: For uniform size, use a cookie scoop so all your cookie cups bake evenly.
Serving Suggestions for Reese’s Cookie Cups – Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites
These cookie cups are delicious on their own but pair wonderfully with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. They make a great dessert for birthday parties or family movie nights!
Storage and Leftovers for Reese’s Cookie Cups – Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate them for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the cookie cups for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Reese’s Cookie Cups – Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites
- Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes! You can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower butter for a different flavor. - How can I make these cookie cups dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and dairy-free chocolate chips to make this a great option for those with dairy restrictions. - What can I do if my cookie cups are too crumbly?
If your cookie cups turn out crumbly, they may be overbaked or made with too much flour. Make sure to measure accurately and check them while baking.
Conclusion
These Reese’s Cookie Cups – Gooey Chocolate Peanut Butter Bites are a delightful treat that’s sure to impress everyone. With their comforting chocolate-peanut butter flavor and gooey centers, you won’t be able to stop at just one! Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences—happy baking!