Soft and chewy, Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. With a creamy cheesecake center nestled between rich cookie dough, these cookies offer a fantastic combination of flavors and textures. Perfect for parties, bake sales, or just an indulgent snack at home, they are sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cheesecake Filling
- For the Cookie Dough
- How to Make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
- Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling
- Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
- Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
- Step 5: Bake Your Cookies
- Step 6: Cool and Serve
- How to Serve Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
- Warm with Ice Cream
- Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- With Fresh Fruit
- As Party Favors
- On a Dessert Platter
- With Coffee or Tea
- How to Perfect Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
- Best Side Dishes for Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
- Reheating Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of chocolate chips?
- How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
- Can I add nuts to Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?
- What makes these cookies gooey?
- How long do these cookies take to prepare?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistibly Gooey: The cheesecake center adds a delightful creaminess that makes each bite memorable.
- Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of active cooking time, you can whip these cookies up in no time.
- Perfect for Sharing: These cookies make an excellent treat for gatherings or as gifts to friends and family.
- Customizable Options: Add your favorite mix-ins or toppings to personalize your cookies.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones in the baking process for a fun family activity.
Tools and Preparation
To create these delicious cookies, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Freezer-safe container
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and fluffy texture for your cookie dough by thoroughly mixing the ingredients.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy baking sheet ensures even cooking for perfectly baked cookies every time.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make your Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies:
For the Cheesecake 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)
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 smooth. Scoop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Cookie Dough
In a large bowl, beat the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Mix in the egg along with an additional teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet ingredients while stirring until everything is well combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces.
Step 4: Assemble the Cookies
Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough, flatten it slightly, then place one frozen cheesecake filling piece in the center. Cover it with more dough and seal the edges carefully.
Step 5: Bake Your Cookies
Place your cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space between each ball. Bake them in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for 12-14 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow your cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Drizzle with melted chocolate if desired and serve warm for that gooey experience!
How to Serve Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving them creatively can enhance the overall experience and make your dessert table even more inviting.
Warm with Ice Cream
- Serve these cookies warm alongside a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert combination.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top of the cookies for a rich, sweet contrast that complements the peanut butter flavor.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair these cookies with fresh strawberries or banana slices to add a refreshing element to the dessert.
As Party Favors
- Wrap individual cookies in decorative bags to give as party favors at gatherings or special events for a sweet surprise.
On a Dessert Platter
- Arrange the cookies on a colorful dessert platter with other treats like brownies and cupcakes for an appealing display at parties.
With Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or tea to balance the sweetness and create a cozy atmosphere.
How to Perfect Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
To achieve the ultimate texture and flavor in your Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies, consider these helpful tips.
Chill the Filling: Ensure you freeze the cheesecake filling for at least an hour. This helps keep it intact during baking, resulting in gooey centers.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense cookies instead of light and chewy ones.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and cream cheese are softened adequately. This ensures a smoother batter and better incorporation of ingredients.
Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. Remove them once the edges are golden but the centers still look soft; they will continue cooking on the baking sheet.
Let Them Cool: Allowing the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them helps maintain their shape and prevents them from breaking apart.
Experiment with Mix-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like nuts or different types of chocolate chips for added texture and flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
Pairing side dishes with your Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness to balance out the richness of the cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate served with strawberries, marshmallows, or pretzels makes for an interactive dessert experience.
- Mini Cupcakes: Offer mini versions of popular flavors like red velvet or chocolate for guests who enjoy variety.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be dolloped onto each cookie or served alongside for dipping.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a light option that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cookies.
- Milkshakes: Creamy milkshakes (vanilla, chocolate, or peanut butter) complement the flavors while offering a fun drink option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
Not softening the cream cheese: If you don’t soften the cream cheese properly, it won’t mix well with the powdered sugar, resulting in a lumpy cheesecake filling. Always let it sit at room temperature before mixing.
Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined when adding dry ingredients to keep your cookies soft and chewy.
Skipping the freezing step: Freezing the cheesecake filling is essential for achieving that gooey center. Make sure to freeze it for at least an hour before baking.
Using cold butter: Cold butter will not cream properly with sugars, affecting texture. Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for optimal results.
Not spacing cookies properly: If cookies are placed too close together on the baking sheet, they may merge while baking. Leave enough space between each cookie dough ball.
Baking at incorrect temperature: Baking at too high or too low of a temperature can ruin your cookies. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate heat levels.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
- Transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 5 minutes for warm cookies.
- Microwave: Heat one cookie on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
- Stovetop: Use a covered skillet over low heat, warming the cookies gently until soft.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies:
Can I use other types of chocolate chips?
Yes, you can substitute milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips based on your preference.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour.
Can I add nuts to Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?
Absolutely! Chopped peanuts or other nuts can add great texture and flavor.
What makes these cookies gooey?
The creamy cheesecake filling inside each cookie creates that delicious gooey texture when baked.
How long do these cookies take to prepare?
The total time is approximately 1 hour and 27 minutes, including prep and bake time.
Final Thoughts
Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are not only indulgent but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different types of chocolates or nuts based on your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, these cookies are sure to delight any peanut butter lover. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and share it with friends!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies 1x
Description
Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly blends soft, chewy cookie dough with a creamy cheesecake center. These irresistible cookies are not only fun to make but also offer a unique flavor combination that will leave everyone wanting more. Ideal for parties, bake sales, or simply as an indulgent snack at home, these cookies are sure to impress with their gooey texture and rich taste. With an easy-to-follow recipe and customizable options, you can get the kids involved in the kitchen or personalize them to suit your taste. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious dessert that combines the best of both worlds: cookies and cheesecake!
Ingredients
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare the cheesecake filling by mixing cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Scoop dollops onto parchment paper and freeze for at least an hour.
- For the cookie dough, beat together softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and extra vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking soda, and salt; gradually mix into the wet ingredients. Fold in chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces.
- Take about two tablespoons of cookie dough, flatten it, place a frozen cheesecake dollop in the center, cover with more dough, and seal edges.
- Bake on a parchment-lined sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 12-14 minutes until golden brown around the edges.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (approximately 50g)
- Calories: 202
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 115mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
