Name: Chewy Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies Just Like Mom Used to Make
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 1 teaspoon baking soda (can be swapped with baking powder); 1 teaspoon salt (kosher salt preferred); 1 cup unsalted butter (melted); 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1 cup white granulated sugar; 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural peanut butter may affect texture); 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup mini chocolate chips (dark chocolate can be substituted); 1 cup Reese's peanut butter chips (butterscotch chips can be used); 1 cup mini Reese's peanut butter cups (chopped, use unwrapped mini cups)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I stood in the kitchen, the sweet aroma of melting chocolate and warm peanut butter enveloped me like a favorite blanket. The moment I decided to bake Chewy Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies, I knew I was in for a treat that balances nostalgia and indulgence perfectly. These cookies not only satisfy that sweet tooth but also win over even the toughest critics with their irresistible chewy texture and surprise bursts of mini Reese’s cups. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, they are sure to become your go-to cookie recipe. Plus, the best part? They come together in a snap without the fuss of complicated techniques. Are you ready to dive into the bliss of homemade cookies? Let’s get started!

Why are these cookies a must-try?

Irresistible Chewy Texture: Each bite offers a delightful chewiness that keeps you coming back for more.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of peanut butter, chocolate chips, and mini Reese’s cups creates a mouthwatering treat that delights the taste buds.

Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies can be whipped up in no time—perfect for when that cookie craving strikes!

Versatile Options: Whether you stick with the classic flavors or add a twist with oats or crunchy peanut butter, the possibilities are endless.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether at a family gathering or a friend’s get-together, these cookies are bound to earn rave reviews!

Warm and Cozy: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with a glass of milk or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience. If you’re looking for more delicious cookie inspiration, try baking some Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies or a delightful batch of Mango Cookies Delightful.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies Ingredients

For the Dough

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cookies; ensure it’s spooned and leveled for the best results.
Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure the cookies are soft; can be swapped with baking powder if needed.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; kosher salt works best here.
Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to use room temperature butter if melting isn’t your style.
Brown sugar (packed) – Contributes moisture and depth of flavor; coconut sugar can be used for a healthier twist.
White granulated sugar – Sweetens the dough while helping achieve crispy edges.
Creamy peanut butter – The star ingredient adding moisture and flavor; natural peanut butter will work but may affect texture.
Pure vanilla extract – Brings warmth and enhances overall flavor.
Large eggs (room temperature) – Binds the ingredients together and helps create that chewy texture.
Mini chocolate chips – Adds delightful chocolate bursts; dark chocolate chips can substitute for a richer flavor.

For the Goodies

Reese’s peanut butter chips – Amplifies that delicious peanut butter taste; butterscotch chips are a good alternative if needed.
Mini Reese’s peanut butter cups (chopped) – Adds fun texture and surprise bites of chocolate; make sure to use unwrapped mini cups for ease.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that heats up, line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Setting the stage at this point ensures your cookies will bake evenly and come out deliciously golden.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial for breaking up any lumps and evenly distributing the leavening agent, ensuring your Chewy Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies have that perfect lift. Once combined, set this mix aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter, packed brown sugar, white sugar, creamy peanut butter, pure vanilla extract, and large eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This delightful blend adds richness and flavor to your cookie dough. Make sure it’s well-blended to achieve a uniform flavor in every bite!

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, folding it gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; you want a soft and sticky cookie dough that still has a little texture. Folding carefully will create those delightful chewy centers that your cookies are known for.

Step 5: Fold in Chocolate and Peanut Butter Chips
Now, gently fold in the mini chocolate chips, Reese’s peanut butter chips, and chopped mini Reese’s cups until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. You should see those little pieces peeking through, promising bursts of chocolate and peanut butter in each cookie. This is where the fun part really begins!

Step 6: Rest the Cookie Dough
Allow the cookie dough to sit for about 10 minutes. This resting period will help minimize spreading during baking, giving your Chewy Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies a thicker, more chewy texture. Use this time to prepare your scooping tools or clean up the workspace!

Step 7: Scoop the Dough
Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. You should see mounds of cookie dough that are nicely shaped, each one ready to transform into a delicious treat.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake in your preheated oven for 13-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown but the center remains soft. You want to catch them just before they set fully to maintain that delightful chewy texture. Remember, they’ll continue to cook slightly while cooling on the baking sheet.

Step 9: Cool Before Transferring
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. This step is key, as it helps the cookies firm up while still retaining a soft center. After the cooling time, gently transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely and savor the rich aromas filling your kitchen.

Tips for the Best Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

Rest the Dough: Letting the cookie dough rest for 10 minutes minimizes spreading, ensuring your Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies maintain a thick, chewy center.
Oven Temperature Check: Always preheat your oven properly. An accurate temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden edge while keeping the center soft.
Use Quality Peanut Butter: A creamy peanut butter enhances flavor and texture. Avoid using natural peanut butter with oil separation, as it can alter the cookies’ consistency.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies rather than the delightful chewiness you desire.
Correct Scoop Size: Use a cookie scoop or consistently measure your dough balls to get evenly sized cookies that bake uniformly. Aim for 2 tablespoons for the ideal size.
Watch for Doneness: Pay close attention to the baking time. Once the edges turn golden but the centers look soft, it’s time to take them out. They’ll continue to firm up as they cool!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies are perfect for meal prep and can easily save you time during busy days! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain flavor and texture. If you prefer, scoop the dough into balls ahead of time and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the frozen cookie dough balls directly to the oven (adding an extra minute or two to the baking time) for warm, homemade treats anytime. Just remember, letting the dough rest before baking helps create that delightful chewiness you love!

Storage Tips for Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their chewy texture and deliciousness.

Fridge: If you prefer, keep them in the fridge for a slightly firmer cookie; they can stay fresh for up to a week. Ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 30 days. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for about 1 hour, or microwave for a few seconds to restore that warm, melty goodness.

What to Serve with Chewy Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?

Imagine delighting in a sweet escape with creamy, indulgent treats perfectly paired alongside your freshly baked cookies.

Glasses of Milk: The classic pairing is a refreshing glass of cold milk, balancing the sweetness and richness of the cookies—truly the ultimate comfort duo.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve your cookies warm, topped with a scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of hot and cold. The creaminess adds an elevated touch.
Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: An extra touch of chocolate sauce drizzled on top creates an irresistible dessert experience. It intensifies the chocolate flavor for true chocoholics!
Smoothies: A rich banana or berry smoothie adds freshness and a fruity goodness that complements the rich flavors in the cookies. It’s the perfect pairing for breakfast or a snack.
Coffee or Espresso: The nutty richness of a warm cup of coffee or bold espresso perfectly enhances the flavors of your cookie. Ideal for a cozy afternoon treat during quiet moments or lively gatherings.
Peanut Butter Cream Dip: Whip up a quick peanut butter dip for a fun twist! This creamy dip makes every cookie dunk an extravagant experience. Add a sprinkle of cocoa powder for extra flair!
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: Pair with a plate of chocolate-dipped strawberries for a touch of elegance. The berries’ freshness will contrast beautifully with the cookies’ sweetness.
Cashew Nut Clusters: These crunchy nut clusters work well with the chewy texture of the cookies. Pair them for an irresistible combo of sweet and salty.
Oreo Milkshake: An Oreo milkshake offers a dreamlike, indulgent addition. Blending the flavors of chocolate and cream, it’s a fun and festive complement to your cookie feast.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies Variations

Feel free to get creative with these variations and make this delectable recipe even more personal!

Crunchy Twist: Replace creamy peanut butter with crunchy for a delightful texture contrast, creating a cookie that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious.
Hearty Oats: Fold in some rolled oats into the dough for a heartier bite. This adds a lovely chew and a bit of fiber without compromising on flavor.
Reduced Sweetness: Slash the granulated sugar by 50% for a more balanced sweetness that complements the rich flavors of peanut butter and chocolate.
Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of cayenne pepper or cinnamon for an unexpected flavor profile that tantalizes taste buds, transforming a classic into a spicy treat!
Nutty Addition: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a nutty crunch that enhances the overall indulgence. The added texture pairs beautifully with the creamy peanut butter.
Dark Chocolate Lovers: Swap mini chocolate chips for dark chocolate chips for a richer, more intense flavor. This darker chocolate beautifully offsets the sweetness of the peanut butter.
Holiday Special: Add festive sprinkles for a colorful touch, turning your cookies into the perfect treat for any holiday celebration. Bright colors make everything feel more special!
Mini Bites: Use a mini cookie scoop to create bite-sized cookies that are perfect for sharing. Not too sweet, these little treats are great for snacking or dessert platters.

These variations provide endless possibilities! If you’re feeling adventurous, you might even want to make a batch of Biscoff Cookie Butter Cinnamon Rolls for a delightful breakfast or a rich Peanut Butter Butterfinger Cheesecake to satisfy that sweet tooth. Dive into creating your perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies today!

Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies Recipe FAQs

What is the best way to select peanut butter for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use a quality creamy peanut butter. Look for brands with minimal ingredients – simply peanuts and salt is ideal. Avoid natural peanut butters that separate, as they can alter the consistency of your cookies, making them too oily or dry, which would affect your cookie experience.

How should I store my Chewy Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies?
Very! To keep your cookies fresh and chewy, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to preserve them longer, you can also refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze for up to 30 days. For freezing, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Can I freeze the cookie dough before baking?
Yes, indeed! Freezing cookie dough is a fantastic option. After scooping the dough balls onto a baking sheet, freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of minutes to the bake time – a great option for spontaneous cravings!

What if my cookies spread too much while baking?
No worries! If your cookies spread excessively, it might be due to warm dough or not chilling it before baking. Ensure you let the cookie dough rest for about 10 minutes to prevent spreading. Additionally, if you’re baking at high altitude, try adding an extra 2 tablespoons of flour to compensate for any differences in the baking environment.

Are these cookies safe for pets or people with allergies?
It’s important to be cautious here! These Chewy Reese’s Peanut Butter Chip Cookies contain several common allergens, such as peanuts, dairy, and eggs. They are definitely not safe for dogs, as chocolate is toxic to them. If you or your guests have allergies, consider substituting with allergy-friendly alternatives – for instance, you can use sunbutter instead of peanut butter for a nut-free version. Always double-check ingredients for any allergies related to guests!

How long will these cookies stay fresh?
Great question! When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh and chewy for about 5 days. If you choose to refrigerate them, they can last for up to a week. Freezing, as mentioned, is also a great option for extending shelf life – they can be kept frozen for up to 30 days. Perfect for making ahead and enjoying later!