Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re looking for a treat that combines the best of both worlds—cookies and cheesecake—then you’ve found it with these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! Imagine biting into a soft, chewy cookie filled with creamy cheesecake and bursting with the deliciousness of Reese’s Pieces and chocolate chips. It’s a flavor explosion that will make your taste buds dance!

These cookies are not just a dessert; they’re perfect for any occasion! Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, needing a sweet pick-me-up on a busy weeknight, or just want to indulge yourself, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Trust me, once you bake them, they’ll quickly become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, whipping up these cookies is a breeze!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike adore the combination of peanut butter and chocolate—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the cheesecake filling in advance and freeze it, making this recipe perfect for those last-minute cravings.
• Gooey Goodness: The melted chocolate chips and creamy center create an irresistible texture that keeps you coming back for more.
• Customizable Treat: Feel free to get creative with mix-ins or toppings that suit your style!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the baking magic, let’s gather our ingredients. These are all simple and wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry.

For the Cheesecake Filling

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cookie Dough

• 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

Optional Drizzle

• Melted chocolate for drizzling

Variations

One of the best things about these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies is how flexible the recipe is! Feel free to switch things up based on what you have or your personal preferences.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped peanuts or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Use Different Mix-ins: Swap out Reese’s Pieces for your favorite candy like M&M’s or butterscotch chips.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.
• Change Up the Filling: Try adding a splash of peanut butter to the cheesecake filling for an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

To start, we need that deliciously creamy cheesecake center. In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s smooth. This step is crucial because it creates that delightful filling that contrasts perfectly with the cookies. Once mixed, scoop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them into the freezer for at least an hour. This will help them hold their shape when we assemble our cookies later.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cookies that wonderful chewy texture! Next, mix in one large egg along with another splash of vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients while stirring gently. Be careful not to over-mix; we want tender cookies! Finally, fold in those luscious chocolate chips and colorful Reese’s Pieces.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

Now comes the fun part! Take about two tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place one frozen dollop of cheesecake filling right in the center and cover it with more dough. Make sure to seal all edges properly so that gooey goodness doesn’t escape during baking.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Place your assembled cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with plenty of space between them so they can spread out nicely as they bake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 12-14 minutes until golden at the edges. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Once baked, let your cookies cool on the baking sheet for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, drizzle some melted chocolate over each cookie before serving warm! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Pro Tips for Making Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Baking is all about joy and a little finesse, so here are some tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly gooey and delicious!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature helps them blend smoothly, creating a creamy filling and tender cookie dough.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: Freezing the cheesecake filling makes it easier to handle when you’re assembling the cookies. It prevents the filling from melting into the dough during baking, keeping that delightful center intact!

• Measure your flour accurately: Too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method: spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for precision.

• Watch the baking time closely: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies as they bake. You want them to be golden around the edges but still soft in the center for that perfect gooey texture.

• Experiment with mix-ins: While Reese’s Pieces are fantastic, feel free to mix in other candies or nuts you love! This adds a unique twist each time you bake.

How to Serve Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

With their stunning appearance and incredible flavor, these cookies deserve a special presentation! Here are some delightful ideas for serving them.

Garnishes

• A sprinkle of sea salt: A light dusting of flaky sea salt enhances the sweetness of the cookies and adds an exciting contrast.
• Chocolate drizzle: Melt some chocolate and drizzle it over each cookie for an elegant touch that also adds extra richness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances out the rich flavors of the cookies, making every bite a heavenly experience.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad with berries or citrus complements the sweet and rich flavors of the cookies while adding a burst of freshness.
• Milk or non-dairy milk: A cold glass of milk is always a great companion for cookies. Try almond or oat milk if you’re looking for a non-dairy option!
• Coffee or tea: Enjoying these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea can elevate your dessert experience, providing warmth and comfort.

These serving suggestions will make your Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies an irresistible treat at any gathering or cozy night in! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make the cheesecake filling and cookie dough in advance, saving you time when you’re ready to bake.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen. Simply let them cool completely, then wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen cookie dough, bake directly from the freezer, adding an additional 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• For baked cookies, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making these delicious cookies!

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

Absolutely! You can substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with dark chocolate or even white chocolate for a unique flavor twist.

How do I ensure my Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies stay soft?

Make sure not to overbake the cookies; they should be slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.

What is the best way to store Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

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

Can I add nuts to Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

Certainly! Chopped peanuts or other nuts would add great texture. Just fold them into the cookie dough along with the chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies as much as I do! They truly bring together delightful flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends, these cookies are bound to please. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every gooey bite!