Description:
These Peanut Butter-Stuffed Mini Cookies are a peanut butter lover’s dream! Each bite-sized cookie is stuffed with creamy peanut butter and studded with colorful Reese’s Pieces for the perfect balance of chewy, gooey, and crunchy. Ideal for parties, snacks, or just indulging your sweet tooth!
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
If you’re a fan of peanut butter, these mini cookies will quickly become your new favorite treat. Not only are they easy to make, but they also pack a delightful punch of flavor in each bite. The combination of soft cookie dough, creamy peanut butter, and the crunch of Reese’s Pieces creates an irresistible texture that will satisfy your sweet cravings. Plus, they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying all by yourself!
Introduction
Baking can be a delightful experience, especially when the end result is something as scrumptious as these Peanut Butter-Stuffed Mini Cookies. The allure of peanut butter has captivated taste buds for generations, and when paired with the vibrant sweetness of Reese’s Pieces, you have a match made in dessert heaven. These cookies are not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying, making them an excellent choice for gatherings, school snacks, or a cozy night in. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Cookie Dough:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg 🥚
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Filling and Topping:
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter 🥜
- 1/2 cup Reese’s Pieces 🍬
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tougher cookies.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is ready, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking and enhances the flavors.
Step 4: Stuff the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take about 1 tablespoon of dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a small dollop (about 1/2 teaspoon) of peanut butter in the center of the flattened dough. Top it with another small piece of dough and pinch the edges together to seal the peanut butter inside.
Step 5: Add Reese’s Pieces
Gently press a few Reese’s Pieces into the top of each cookie before placing them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space the cookies about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
Baking Note:
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven. Once done, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Suggestions for Presentation:
Serve these delightful cookies on a colorful platter or in a decorative cookie jar. For an extra touch, you can drizzle melted chocolate over the top or sprinkle some sea salt to enhance the flavors. Pair them with a glass of cold milk for the ultimate treat!
Tips:
- For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the cookie dough.
- If you prefer a crunchier cookie, bake them a minute or two longer, but be careful not to over-bake.
- These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, but they are best enjoyed fresh.
Time Estimates:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 24 mini cookies
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 100 per cookie
- Protein: 2g
- Sodium: 50mg
Conclusion
These Peanut Butter-Stuffed Mini Cookies with Reese’s Pieces are a delightful treat that combines the beloved flavors of peanut butter and chocolate in a fun-sized package. Perfect for any occasion or simply as a sweet indulgence, they are sure to impress family and friends alike. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to bake a batch of happiness!
Questions and Answers:
1. Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
Yes, using crunchy peanut butter will add an extra layer of texture to the cookies!
2. How can I store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and freeze it. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
4. What can I substitute for Reese’s Pieces?
You can use chocolate chips, M&M’s, or any other candy of your choice for a different flavor profile.
5. Are these cookies suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can make these cookies gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the other ingredients for gluten content as well.
