Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re looking for a treat that combines the best of cookies and cheesecake, you’ve got to try these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! They are soft, chewy, and absolutely packed with the delightful flavors of peanut butter and chocolate. What makes this recipe truly special is the creamy cheesecake center that melts in your mouth, making them perfect for any occasion—from busy weeknights to family gatherings or even a cozy night in. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why they quickly become a household favorite!

These cookies are not just indulgent; they are also super easy to make. You’ll enjoy the process as much as the final product. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistibly gooey: The creamy cheesecake center makes each bite a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Simple to prepare: With easy-to-follow steps, baking these cookies feels like a breeze.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet treats, making them great for sharing.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy fresh cookies throughout the week!
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with mix-ins or toppings to suit your taste!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful 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)

Variations

One of the best things about these cookies is how flexible they are! You can easily customize them based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped peanuts or walnuts for an extra crunch.
• Try different candies: Swap out Reese’s Pieces for M&M’s or your favorite chocolate-covered candy.
• Make them gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative.
• Flavor it up: Experiment by adding a hint of cinnamon or espresso powder for unique flavor twists.

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. This creamy filling is what makes your cookies so special! Scoop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and pop them in the freezer for at least an hour. Freezing helps maintain their shape when baked.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is essential because creaming aerates the butter, helping your cookies rise beautifully. Mix in the egg and another splash of vanilla extract for added flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your wet mixture while stirring until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Then fold in those delicious chocolate chips and Reese’s Pieces—this is where your cookies really start to shine.

Step 4: Fill Your Cookies

Take about 2 tablespoons of cookie dough and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place one frozen cheesecake filling piece in the center and cover it with more dough. Seal the edges well; this ensures that gooey filling stays inside while baking.

Step 5: Bake Your Cookies

Place your filled cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space between them to allow room for spreading. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-14 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them—nothing beats that fresh-baked cookie aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle some melted chocolate over top before serving! Enjoy these warm for that ultimate gooey experience—your taste buds will thank you!

Pro Tips for Making Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Baking these cookies can be a delightful experience, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll achieve that perfect gooey center every time!

• Chill the Cream Cheese Filling: Freezing the cheesecake filling allows it to hold its shape during baking, ensuring that you get that delightful surprise in the center of each cookie.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Having your butter and cream cheese at room temperature helps them blend more easily, resulting in a smoother dough and a lighter texture in your cookies.
• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Gently folding in the dry ingredients prevents gluten development, keeping your cookies soft and chewy instead of tough.
• Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens vary, so start checking your cookies at the 12-minute mark. Removing them while they still look slightly underbaked will ensure they stay gooey inside.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to swap out or add different mix-ins like chopped nuts or other types of chocolate candies to personalize your cookies!

How to Serve Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies are not just delicious; they also make a lovely presentation for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a cozy get-together or simply treating yourself, here are some ideas for serving them up.

Garnishes

• Drizzle of Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle adds an extra layer of sweetness and elegance, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Sprinkle of Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of sea salt enhances the flavors and balances out the sweetness beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of warm cookies with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad can cut through the richness of the cookies, offering a light and fruity complement to your dessert.
• Chocolate Milkshake: For an over-the-top treat, serve these cookies with a thick chocolate milkshake—it’s sure to impress any sweet tooth!
• Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea elevates the experience, providing a comforting beverage that pairs excellently with dessert.

Enjoy making these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! They’re sure to be a hit for anyone who loves peanut butter and creamy treats. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store or freeze them for a future treat.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.

Freezing

• Freeze unbaked cookie dough balls for up to 3 months. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a zip-top bag.
• Baked cookies can also be frozen. Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

• To reheat baked cookies, microwave for 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• If you prefer, you can also warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Curious about these delicious cookies? Here are some common questions!

How do I make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies without eggs?

You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture. Combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes, and use it as a binding agent.

Can I use different candies instead of Reese’s Pieces in the Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with your favorite candies or chocolate chips. M&Ms or chopped chocolate bars would work beautifully too.

How long will Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies stay fresh?

When stored properly, these gooey delights will remain fresh for about 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies a try! They’re not just a treat; they’re an experience that combines soft cookies with creamy cheesecake goodness. You’ll love how easy they are to make and how quickly they disappear! Enjoy baking and sharing this indulgent delight with your loved ones—happy baking!