The holidays have a magical way of bringing people together, and nothing says festive cheer quite like the aroma of freshly baked Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies wafting through the house. Imagine biting into a warm cookie that’s soft on the inside, crunchy on the outside, and studded with colorful, candy-coated chocolate pieces that practically scream joy. It’s like a hug from your grandma—if she were made of peanut butter and chocolate.
Now, let me take you back to my childhood kitchen, where I stood on tiptoes to reach the countertop while my mom whipped up these delightful treats. The kitchen was filled with laughter, and my ability to keep flour off my face was about as strong as my willpower when it came to sneaking cookie dough. Family gatherings wouldn’t be complete without these cookies, which became a holiday staple that everyone looks forward to. So whether you’re baking for a party or just trying to sweeten your day, these cookies are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
Why You'll Love This Christmas Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies
- This incredible Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies:
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your cookie dough; sift it for a lighter texture.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve that golden-brown color.
- Brown Sugar: For moisture and richness; dark brown sugar amplifies flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter; it allows you to control the saltiness in your cookies.
- Peanut Butter: Creamy or crunchy—either works! Just ensure it’s not too oily.
- Eggs: Acts as a binder, giving structure to those gooey cookies.
- Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and become fluffy instead of flat pancakes.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- Reese’s Pieces Candy: The star of the show—these colorful candies bring joy in every bite!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring your cookies bake evenly and don’t end up resembling hockey pucks.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Set this aside while you work on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until creamy. It should look like sweet clouds—fluffy and delightful!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Peanut Butter
Now mix in one egg at a time, followed by vanilla extract and peanut butter until everything is well combined into a luscious batter that smells heavenly.
Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry
Gradually add the dry mixture into your wet mixture until just combined—don’t overmix unless you want chewy cookies instead of soft ones!
Step 6: Fold in Those Colorful Candies
Gently fold in those glorious Reese’s Pieces candies until they’re evenly distributed throughout your cookie dough. Try not to eat them all before they hit the oven!
Once you’ve completed these steps, scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a lined baking sheet about two inches apart. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden but centers are still soft (they’ll firm up as they cool). Transfer them carefully onto wire racks to cool down slightly before devouring!
These Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies aren’t just any cookies; they’re an experience wrapped in nostalgia! Perfect for sharing at holiday gatherings or simply enjoying with a glass of milk while watching your favorite festive movie. So go ahead—spread some joy this season with these delightful treats!
You Must Know About Christmas Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies
- This showstopping Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
To achieve perfect Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, start by creaming the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Then, mix in your peanut butter before gradually adding the dry ingredients. Finally, fold in those colorful Reese’s Pieces for a delightful finish!
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to swap out regular peanut butter for crunchy or even almond butter for a twist! Add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for an extra flavor kick. You can also mix in chocolate chips for double the chocolatey goodness.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them warm later, pop them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back that freshly baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Christmas Reese's Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies
- This professional-quality Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sometimes I surprise my friends with these cookies during holiday gatherings. The smiles on their faces and compliments about how they taste just like childhood memories make all the effort worthwhile!
FAQs
What are Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies?
Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that combines the rich flavor of peanut butter with colorful Reese’s Pieces candies. These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with the sweetness of chocolate and peanut butter. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a festive gift, they bring joy to every bite. The unique combination of flavors and textures makes them irresistible for both kids and adults alike. Baking these cookies fills your home with a warm, inviting aroma, creating a cozy atmosphere during the holiday season.
How do I make Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies?
To make Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies, start by creaming together softened butter, peanut butter, and sugar until light and fluffy. Then add eggs and vanilla extract for extra flavor. Gradually mix in flour, baking soda, and salt to form the dough. Finally, fold in the colorful Reese’s Pieces candies. Scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, spacing them apart, and bake in a preheated oven until golden brown. Let them cool before enjoying these festive cookies that everyone loves.
Can I freeze Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies?
Yes, you can freeze Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies! Once baked and cooled completely, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to three months without losing their delicious flavor. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.
What variations can I try with Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies?
You can experiment with various variations of Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies by adding different mix-ins or flavors. Consider incorporating chocolate chips or crushed nuts for added texture. You can also substitute some of the peanut butter with almond butter or add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a festive twist. To make them more visually appealing, try using holiday-themed sprinkles or swapping in seasonal candies instead of Reese’s Pieces.
Conclusion
In summary, Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies are an easy-to-make holiday treat that everyone will love. Their combination of rich peanut butter flavor and colorful candy makes them perfect for celebrations or gifting. By following simple steps to create these delightful cookies, you can fill your home with festive cheer this season. Remember to try freezing some for later enjoyment! Embrace the joy of baking these amazing cookies this Christmas season!
Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive spirit with these Christmas Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies! Soft, chewy, and bursting with colorful candy-coated chocolate, each bite delivers a delightful mix of sweetness and nostalgia. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family moments, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees smiles all around.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup Reese's Pieces candy
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt; set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy.
- Add the egg, peanut butter, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in Reese's Pieces candies until evenly distributed.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto a lined baking sheet about two inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until edges are golden but centers remain soft.
- Allow cookies to cool on wire racks before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (30g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
