Indulge your sweet tooth with these irresistible Reese Peanut Butter Crumble Cookies! These cookies bring together the creamy goodness of peanut butter, the rich flavor of chocolate chips, and the delightful crunch of crushed Reese’s peanut butter cups. Each bite is a symphony of taste and texture: soft, chewy, and full of flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds! In this article, I’ll guide you through every step of making these special cookies, ensuring they become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Reese Peanut Butter Crumble Cookies
Not convinced yet? Here’s why these cookies are bound to become your new favorite:
- Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and minimal time, you can whip up a batch in no time!
- Perfect for Beginners: This recipe is simple enough for novice bakers, and you’ll impress friends and family with minimal effort.
- Ideal for the Whole Family: Kids and adults alike will love these cookies, making them perfect for family gatherings or snack time.
- Economical: Using basic pantry ingredients, this recipe is budget-friendly without compromising on taste.
- Customizable: Add your own twist with different chocolates or nuts, catering to your family’s preferences!
The Necessary Ingredients
Let’s gather what you need for these delectable cookies. Here’s a list of ingredients to have on hand:
- 1 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 cup crushed Reese’s peanut butter cups
Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:
- Peanut Butter: The star ingredient! Creamy peanut butter works best for a smooth texture, but you can use crunchy if you prefer those delightful peanut chunks. Natural peanut butter can be used, but reduce the amount of added sugar, as it’s often less sweet.
- Unsalted Butter: This adds moisture and richness. If you only have salted butter, just reduce the amount of added salt (omit the 1/2 teaspoon salt).
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour is great; however, you can use gluten-free flour blends for a gluten-free version. Just note that the texture and taste might slightly differ.
How to Prepare the Reese Peanut Butter Crumble Cookies Step by Step
Follow these detailed steps for the ultimate cookie experience:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- This ensures your cookies bake evenly from the moment you put them in. A hot oven is crucial for the right texture.
- Pro Tip: Always preheat your oven! It helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
- In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
- The goal here is to blend the fats, creating a creamy base that will hold the cookie together.
- Pro Tip: If your butter isn’t softened, microwave it for 10 seconds at a time until it’s just soft (not melted).
- Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until well combined.
- This will sweeten your cookies while adding moisture from the brown sugar.
- Pro Tip: Brown sugar can clump. Break it up before adding it to the mix for even distribution.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mixing in one egg at a time ensures even incorporation and helps stabilize the batter.
- Pro Tip: Use room-temperature eggs for better emulsification, leading to a smoother batter.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- This helps avoid overmixing. You want to combine them just until they are mixed well!
- Pro Tip: Use a whisk to aerate the flour, which will result in lighter cookies.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and crushed Reese’s cups.
- Folding helps to maintain the air in the batter while evenly distributing the mix-ins, providing a delightful surprise in every bite.
- Pro Tip: Reserve a few chocolate chips and Reese’s pieces to add on top before baking for an appealing look!
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Using parchment paper prevents the cookies from sticking and aids in a gentle release after baking.
- Pro Tip: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes, ensuring even baking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Keep an eye out; each oven is different. You’re looking for a slight golden edge.
- Pro Tip: If you prefer chewy cookies, take them out on the earlier side. They continue to cook after being removed from the oven.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- This will help them firm up. Don’t rush to move them too fast!
- Pro Tip: Using a spatula, gently slide under the cookies to lift them from the baking sheet without breaking them.
Serving Suggestions
Want to make the most out of your Reese Peanut Butter Crumble Cookies? Here are some creative ideas for serving:
Perfect Pairings
- Milk: A classic! Nothing beats a warm cookie dunked in a tall glass of cold milk.
- Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee elevate the peanut butter sweetness, making for a sophisticated treat.
- Ice Cream: Pair a warm cookie with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert!
Occasions
- Weeknight Dinner: Surprise your family with these cookies as a sweet treat after dinner.
- Special Occasion Meal: These cookies are excellent for birthday parties, holiday gatherings, or casual get-togethers.
- School Lunches: Pack these cookies in your kids’ lunches for a fun surprise treat!
Serving Tips
- Display your cookies on a beautiful plate or cookie jar for an enticing centerpiece.
- Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-savory contrast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To ensure your cookies remain fresh and delicious, follow these storage guidelines:
Refrigerated
- Duration: Up to one week.
- Type of container: Store in an airtight container to keep moisture in and maintain freshness.
Freezed
- If possible: Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough or the baked cookies!
- Packaging: For dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. For baked cookies, layer them with parchment paper in a container or bag.
- Defrosting: Allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature or bake the dough directly from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to bake time.
Reheating
- Best method: Reheat cookies in the microwave for about 10 seconds, or warm in a traditional oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
Guaranteed Success Tips
- Don’t overmix the batter: Just mix enough to incorporate the flour, ensuring a soft texture.
- Use quality ingredients: Fresh peanut butter and real chocolate will give the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the cooling time: This helps enhance the cookie’s flavor and texture.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to experiment with these fun variations:
- For a spicy version: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a sweet and spicy kick!
- For a vegan version: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use vegan butter.
- For a minty twist: Include 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract and some chopped mint chocolate for a refreshing flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: My cookies came out completely dry; what did I do wrong?
A: Dry cookies often result from overmixing after the flour is added or baking for too long. Ensure you mix until just combined and check for doneness a couple of minutes early.
Q: Can I make this dough ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, refrigerate it for up to three days, or freeze it for up to three months.
Q: What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
A: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator, which should make it easier to handle.
Q: Why do my cookies flatten too much?
A: This can happen if your butter is too soft or melted. Make sure to use softened butter, not melted, for the perfect cookie shape.
Q: Can I substitute other nut butters for peanut butter?
A: Absolutely! Almond butter or cashew butter can be great alternatives, though they will change the flavor of the cookies.
Q: How can I tell when my cookies are done?
A: Look for a golden edge; they should still appear soft in the center but will firm up as they cool.
Q: Can I add nuts to the cookie mix?
A: Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add a nice crunch. Just fold them in along with the chocolate chips and Reese’s.
Now you’re ready to take on the world of cookie baking with this easy yet delightful recipe for Reese Peanut Butter Crumble Cookies! Enjoy the process, and happy baking!
Reese Peanut Butter Crumble Cookies
Ingredients
Cookie Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup peanut butter Creamy peanut butter works best.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened If using salted butter, reduce the salt.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar Brown sugar can clump; break it up before mixing.
- 2 large eggs Use room-temperature eggs for better emulsification.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour Gluten-free blends can be used but may alter texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Omit if using salted butter.
- 1 cup chocolate chips Reserve some for topping.
- 1/2 cup crushed Reese's peanut butter cups Reserve some for topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream together the peanut butter and softened butter until smooth.
- Add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, mixing until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Fold in the chocolate chips and crushed Reese's cups.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.