Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that is both indulgent and fun, then you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that combines everything we love about cookies and cheesecake into one amazing bite. The creamy center paired with the chewy cookie base creates a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cookies will surely steal the spotlight.

What makes this recipe extra special is not just its taste but also its versatility. You can whip these up quickly or even make them ahead of time for an unexpected get-together. Trust me, once you share these with friends or family, they’ll be begging for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these cookies come together without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike adore the combination of chocolate and peanut butter!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive party, these cookies fit right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Freeze the cheesecake filling in advance to save time when you’re ready to bake.
• Gooey Goodness: Enjoy warm cookies that are soft on the outside and creamy on the inside.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies is straightforward and fun! You’ll use simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Gather these items, and let’s get baking!

Ingredients:
– 4 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup Reese’s Pieces
– Melted chocolate for drizzling (optional)

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to mix things up based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add nuts: Chopped peanuts or walnuts can add a nice crunch and enhance the flavor.
• Switch up the chocolate: Try using white chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet for a different taste profile.
• Use different candies: Swap out Reese’s Pieces for M&M’s or any favorite candy for a twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed.

How to Make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Start by mixing together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. This step is crucial because it creates that creamy cheesecake filling we want at the center of our cookies. Scoop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for at least an hour. Freezing ensures they hold their shape when baked.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture which gives our cookies that lovely soft texture. Then, mix in the egg and additional vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. It’s important to combine these dry ingredients separately first so that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout your dough.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients while stirring gently until combined. This will create your cookie dough base. Now fold in those delicious chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces to make every bite delightful!

Step 5: Form Your Cookies

Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough, flatten it out slightly, then place one of those frozen cheesecake dollops in the center. Cover it with more dough and seal the edges well—this will keep that gooey filling inside while it bakes.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Place your cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between them (they spread out as they bake). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12–14 minutes until their edges are golden brown but centers still look soft—that’s how you know they’re perfect!

Step 7: Cool & Drizzle

Let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some melted chocolate over them before serving. Enjoy these warm for an unforgettable treat!

Pro Tips for Making Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Making these cookies can be a breeze with a few helpful tips! Here are some suggestions to ensure your Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies turn out perfectly every time:

• Chill the Cheesecake Filling: Freezing the cheesecake filling is crucial. This helps it maintain its shape while baking, resulting in that gooey center without spilling out.

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until they are combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones.

• Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also allows for even baking, ensuring that your cookies come out perfectly golden brown.

• Adjust Baking Time for Chewy Texture: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. For a chewier texture, take them out when the edges are golden but the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

• Experiment with Chocolate Drizzle: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different types of chocolate for drizzling—white chocolate or dark chocolate can add a delicious twist to the presentation and flavor!

How to Serve Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are not just a treat; they’re a delightful experience! Present them beautifully to impress family and friends or enjoy them casually with your favorite beverage. Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar elevates the visual appeal and adds a touch of sweetness.
• Chopped Peanuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the peanut butter base.

Side Dishes

• Milk: A classic pairing, serving these cookies with a glass of cold milk enhances the creamy and rich flavors of the cheesecake filling.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast between warm cookies and cold ice cream, making for an indulgent dessert experience.
• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries adds a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the cookies.
• Coffee or Tea: Pairing these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy snack time, perfect for any occasion!

Enjoy crafting these wonderful treats, sharing them with loved ones, or keeping them all for yourself—you deserve it!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to satisfy your sweet tooth anytime! You can easily store or freeze them to enjoy later without losing any of their deliciousness.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate the cookies for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow cookies to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For the best texture, reheat frozen cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• If using a microwave, heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds. Enjoy warm!

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about these delightful cookies.

Can I use other types of candy in Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite chocolate candies or even nuts for added texture and flavor.

How do I achieve the perfect gooey center in my Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

Ensure that the cheesecake filling is frozen well before encasing it in cookie dough. This will help maintain its gooey texture while baking.

Can I make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What should I do if my cookie dough feels too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape into balls.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a special treat on your own. Remember to savor every gooey bite, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite mix-ins. Happy baking!