Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re looking for a dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with soft, chewy cookies, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe: Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! This treat is a crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite of mine. The rich peanut butter flavor from the Reese’s Pieces paired with the delightful cheesecake center creates an indulgent experience that is truly unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to enjoy something sweet on a busy weeknight, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.

The excitement of biting into one of these cookies and discovering that gooey cheesecake center is what makes this recipe special. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up! Grab your ingredients, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: These cookies come together in no time, making them perfect for when you need a sweet fix without the fuss.
• Family-friendly treat: Kids and adults alike will adore these cookies, especially with their fun mix of flavors and textures.
• Make ahead option: You can freeze the cheesecake centers in advance, making it even easier to bake fresh cookies whenever the craving strikes!
• Versatile delight: Perfect as an after-school snack, party dessert, or cozy movie night treat—there’s never a wrong time for these cookies!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies. Don’t worry; you probably have most of these items in your pantry already!

For the Cream Cheese 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

One of the best things about Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies is how flexible they are! You can easily mix things up to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Switch up the chocolate: Try using white chocolate chips or even butterscotch chips for a different flavor twist.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts like peanuts or pecans for an added crunch!
• Make it festive: Swap out the Reese’s Pieces for seasonal candies like M&Ms during holidays.
• Go gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cookie recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until it forms a smooth mixture. This step is essential as it creates that deliciously creamy center we’re after. Once mixed, scoop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them into the freezer for at least an hour. Freezing helps them hold their shape inside the cookie.

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 mixture for a lighter texture in your cookies. Then, mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients while stirring gently until combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cookies tender and chewy! Finally, fold in those yummy chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces for extra flavor.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cookies

Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place one of those frozen cheesecake filling pieces right in the center. Now cover it with more cookie dough, ensuring you seal all edges well so that gooey goodness stays tucked inside while baking.

Step 5: Bake Away!

Place your filled cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space between them to spread as they bake. Pop them into your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 12-14 minutes until golden around the edges but still soft in the middle.

Step 6: Cool & Drizzle

Once baked, allow them to cool on the sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you like, drizzle melted chocolate over top for an extra touch of sweetness! Serve warm for that melt-in-your-mouth experience—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Baking these cookies should be a fun and rewarding experience! Here are some handy tips to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly gooey and delicious.

• Chill the cheesecake filling: Freezing the cheesecake filling is crucial for preventing it from melting completely during baking. This helps maintain that delightful creamy center.
• Don’t overmix the dough: Mixing just until combined will keep your cookies soft and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies, which we definitely want to avoid!
• Use quality chocolate chips: Opting for high-quality chocolate chips will enhance the flavor of your cookies. The richer chocolate complements the peanut butter and cream cheese beautifully.
• Bake in batches: If you have a smaller oven, bake your cookies in batches. This ensures even baking and prevents overcrowding on the baking sheet, which can lead to unevenly baked cookies.
• Store properly: To keep your cookies fresh and gooey, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw before enjoying!

How to Serve Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Serving these delightful cookies is all about presentation and pairing them with complementary flavors. Here are some fun ideas for serving!

Garnishes

• Drizzle of melted chocolate: A simple drizzle of melted chocolate over each cookie adds visual appeal and extra indulgence.
• Chopped peanuts: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that enhances the peanut butter essence.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm cookies, creating a delicious contrast in textures.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad adds a refreshing element to balance the richness of the cookies. Consider using berries or citrus fruits for a zesty twist.
• Chocolate milkshake: For a truly decadent treat, serve alongside a thick chocolate milkshake. The creamy texture complements the gooeyness of the cookies wonderfully!
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea makes for an excellent pairing, enhancing the flavors while providing a cozy vibe.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be ready to impress friends and family with your irresistible Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and enjoy their rich flavors whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls on a baking sheet until solid.
• Transfer the frozen dough to a freezer-safe bag or container, labeling it with the date.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place cookies on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Alternatively, microwave individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Have questions about making these cookies? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use different candies instead of Reese’s Pieces in the Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

Yes! You can substitute with your favorite chocolate candies, nuts, or even dried fruit. Just make sure to keep the total amount similar for balanced flavor.

How do I get the cheesecake filling to stay inside the Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

Ensure you completely seal the edges of the cookie dough around the cheesecake filling. Flatten your dough evenly and wrap it tightly before baking.

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

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup, and you will have delicious gluten-free cookies!

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

The total time is approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes, including freezing time for the cheesecake filling. But it’s worth every minute!

What can I serve with Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy them as a dessert on their own or as part of a sweet treat platter!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies as much as I do! They’re truly special, combining that creamy cheesecake center with chewy cookie goodness—an irresistible treat for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to share your baking experience; I’d love to hear how yours turned out. Happy baking!