Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re looking for a treat that combines your love for cookies and cheesecake, then let me introduce you to my Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! These delightful little packages of joy are soft, chewy, and bursting with creamy cheesecake goodness. I love making these cookies for family gatherings or on busy weeknights when I need a sweet pick-me-up. They always bring smiles to everyone’s faces, and the combination of chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces makes them simply irresistible!

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy at home, these cookies are sure to impress. They’re not only delicious but also fun to make. So grab your ingredients and let’s get started on this fantastic cookie adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll have these delicious cookies ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the gooey center and crunchy bits of Reese’s Pieces. It’s the perfect cookie for everyone!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the cheesecake filling ahead of time, making it super convenient for busy days.
• Gooey Goodness: The warm, melty center is an experience every cookie lover should have at least once!
• Versatile Treat: These cookies are perfect for any occasion—parties, bake sales, or just a cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! These goodies come together beautifully to create the ultimate cookie experience.

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
• Melted chocolate for drizzling (optional)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways you can switch things up:

• Add nuts: If you’re a fan of crunchy textures, toss in some chopped peanuts or walnuts for an extra layer of flavor.
• Switch up the candy: Try using M&M’s or chopped Snickers instead of Reese’s Pieces for a different taste.
• Use flavored extracts: Add almond or hazelnut extract to the dough for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make mini cookies: Scoop smaller portions of dough to create bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing!

How to Make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a small bowl, mix together your softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until it’s smooth and creamy. This step is crucial because it creates that rich cheesecake center that makes these cookies so special. Once mixed well, scoop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for at least an hour. This helps keep your filling intact during baking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, beat your softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy. This process is important because it incorporates air into the mixture, which helps give your cookies that soft texture we all love! After mixing in one egg along with a splash more vanilla extract, set this aside.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients into your wet mixture while stirring until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cookies tender!

Step 4: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Reese’s Pieces

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in your chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces. This step ensures that every bite of cookie is packed with delicious flavor.

Step 5: Assemble Your Cookies

Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly. Place one frozen cheesecake filling piece right in the center. Then cover it with more dough and seal the edges carefully—this will keep that gooey center hidden until you take a bite!

Step 6: Bake Them Up!

Place your assembled cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space between them for spreading (about 2 inches). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-14 minutes until their edges are golden but their centers still look soft. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 7: Cool & Drizzle

Let those beautiful 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 top before serving warm—a true delight!

And there you have it—your very own Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! Enjoy every last crumb!

Pro Tips for Making Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Baking is all about having fun and experimenting, so here are some tips to help you create the best Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies!

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

• Chill the cheesecake filling: Freezing the cream cheese mixture into dollops allows it to maintain its shape during baking, creating that delightful gooey center when you bite into the cookie.

• Don’t overmix the dough: When combining your dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft and chewy ones!

• Watch the baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies. You want the edges to be golden while the centers remain soft; they will continue to cook slightly as they cool.

• Experiment with mix-ins: While this recipe calls for Reese’s Pieces and chocolate chips, feel free to customize with nuts or other candies. Just remember not to add too much or it may affect the texture!

How to Serve Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Presenting these cookies in a delightful way can enhance your dessert experience! Here are some ideas for serving them up beautifully.

Garnishes

• Drizzle with melted chocolate: A drizzle of melted chocolate not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the overall chocolatey goodness of the cookies.

• Sprinkle with sea salt: A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt can elevate the flavors, providing a perfect contrast to the sweetness of the cookies.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream pairs deliciously with these warm cookies, creating an indulgent dessert experience.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the sweetness of the cookies, adding a light and fruity element to your dessert table.

• Peanut butter dip: Serve a small bowl of peanut butter dip on the side for a fun and interactive twist—perfect for peanut butter lovers who want an extra hit of flavor!

• Coffee or tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea complements these cookies beautifully, enhancing their rich flavors while providing a cozy beverage option for enjoying with friends and family.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies will be even more delightful! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make the cookie dough and cheesecake filling ahead of time, ensuring delicious treats are always at your fingertips.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until solid.
• Transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• To reheat cookies, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Alternatively, use the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a gooey treat!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful cookies:

Can I make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies without cream cheese?

Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese or a thick plant-based yogurt as an alternative to maintain that creamy cheesecake center.

How can I ensure my Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies turn out perfectly?

Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened properly, and don’t skip freezing the cheesecake filling—this ensures that gooey center!

Can I use different types of chocolate chips in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for a unique twist.

What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?

Make sure your dough is chilled properly before baking. If necessary, add a bit more flour to achieve the right consistency.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies as much as I do! They truly encapsulate that perfect blend of gooeyness and crunch that will leave anyone craving more. Remember, each bite is not just a cookie; it’s an experience filled with joy and indulgence. Happy baking!