Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines the rich flavors of peanut butter and cheesecake, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! These delightful treats are not just cookies; they’re a fun fusion of textures and tastes that will bring a smile to anyone who takes a bite. I love making these for family gatherings or simply as a sweet treat during busy weeknights when I need a little pick-me-up. Trust me, once you take a warm cookie from the oven, you won’t be able to resist their gooey goodness!

What makes these cookies so special is not just their flavor but the creamy cheesecake center that surprises everyone. They are perfect for sharing, gifting, or enjoying all by yourself with a tall glass of milk. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have these cookies ready in no time!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves peanut butter and chocolate! These cookies are sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the cheesecake filling ahead of time and keep it in the freezer until you’re ready to bake.
• Gooey indulgence: The creamy center combined with chewy cookie edges creates an irresistible texture experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for some simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful cookies:

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

The beauty of Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies is how flexible they can be! Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add nuts: For a little crunch, try tossing in some chopped peanuts or walnuts into the dough.
• Use different candies: Instead of Reese’s Pieces, swap in your favorite candy or chocolate bar pieces for a unique twist.
• Change up the filling: You can use flavored cream cheese or add some cocoa powder for a chocolatey cheesecake center.
• Make them mini: Form smaller cookie balls for 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 the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. This step is crucial because it gives our cookies that rich cheesecake flavor! Once combined, scoop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them in the freezer for at least an hour. Freezing them helps maintain their shape while baking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, which makes your cookies soft and chewy! Next, mix in one large egg along with more vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients while stirring gently until everything is well combined. Folding in chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces will add texture and delightfully unexpected bursts of flavor!

Step 4: Assemble Your Cookies

Take about 2 tablespoons of your cookie dough and flatten it out in your palm. Place one frozen cheesecake filling piece in the center and cover it with more dough. Seal the edges carefully to ensure that gooey filling stays inside while baking.

Step 5: Bake Them Up

Arrange your cookie balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space between them (they will spread!). Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-14 minutes until the edges turn golden brown. Watching them bake is so satisfying!

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy!

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 melted chocolate on top before serving. Enjoy these warm delights right away or save some for later – if they last that long!

Pro Tips for Making Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Baking these cookies can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when you follow these handy tips!

• Chill the cheesecake filling: Freezing the cream cheese mixture before adding it to the cookies ensures that it stays intact during baking, giving you that delightful gooey center.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Allowing your butter and cream cheese to soften at room temperature makes it easier to mix them smoothly, resulting in a better texture for your cookies.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined helps maintain a soft and chewy cookie. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, so be gentle!

• Experiment with mix-ins: Feel free to switch out the chocolate chips or Reese’s Pieces for your favorite candies or nuts. This customization allows you to create a version of the cookie that suits your taste perfectly.

• Watch closely while baking: Ovens can vary, so keeping an eye on your cookies as they bake ensures you pull them out at just the right time for that perfectly golden edge.

How to Serve Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some great ideas for presenting them beautifully and enhancing their flavor.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and creates an elegant finish.
• Drizzled chocolate: Melted chocolate drizzled over the top not only enhances the visual appeal but also intensifies the chocolatey flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with these warm cookies, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad adds a refreshing touch that balances the richness of the cookies. Try using strawberries, blueberries, and bananas for a colorful mix!
• Coffee or milk: Serving these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk complements their flavors and makes each bite even more enjoyable.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream. Its lightness pairs beautifully with the rich cookie, adding an airy element to your dessert experience.

Enjoy every gooey bite of these Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! They are sure to become a beloved treat in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them for later enjoyment, making them a fantastic treat for busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Store 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

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Alternatively, freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are completely cooled before freezing.

Reheating

• To reheat frozen baked cookies, let them thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
• If reheating from the fridge, microwave each cookie for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven gooeyness!

FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers! Here are some common inquiries about these delicious cookies.

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

Yes! You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative if you’re looking for a different option. The texture and flavor will be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious!

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

To get that delightful gooey cheesecake center, ensure you freeze the cheesecake filling until solid before assembling your cookies. This will help maintain its creamy texture during baking.

Can I use other types of candy instead of Reese’s Pieces?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up by using other candies like M&M’s or chocolate chunks. Just ensure they are nut-free if allergies are a concern.

How long does it take to make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes, including prep and baking time. Most of this is hands-off while the cheesecake filling freezes!

Final Thoughts

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are truly a labor of love that combines delightful flavors and textures into each bite. They’re perfect for sharing with friends or treating yourself after a long day. I hope you enjoy making them as much as I did! Don’t hesitate to reach out with your thoughts or any variations you tried—happy baking!