Irresistible Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Indulge in the decadent delight that is Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies – a true showstopper that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. These cookies are not your average chocolate chip treats; they are a delightful fusion of brown butter, three types of chocolate chips, and a luscious cheesecake center that takes them to a whole new level of deliciousness. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any occasion where you want to impress, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone lucky enough to try them.

I first discovered the magic of Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies during a winter cookie exchange, and they have since become a favorite in my household. The heavenly aroma of these cookies has the power to captivate even the most discerning dessert critics, as proven by my neighbor’s son who couldn’t resist staying for more. With each bite, the creamy cheesecake center combined with the rich chocolate chips and brown butter creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Even those who claim they’re not “sweet people” will find themselves reaching for seconds of these irresistible treats.

These cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are an experience that brings people together. Whether enjoyed warm with a glass of milk, paired with coffee for a cozy dessert, or shared at holiday gatherings, Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are sure to steal the spotlight. Get creative with your variations by adding peanut butter to the cheesecake filling or experimenting with different mix-ins like chopped peanut butter cups or a hint of cinnamon. These cookies have a way of creating lasting food memories and quickly becoming a beloved favorite among friends and family.

Quick Benefits

• Elevates traditional chocolate chip cookies with a surprise cheesecake center
• Irresistible combination of brown butter and three types of chocolate for a complex flavor profile
• Versatile for any occasion – from holiday cookie exchanges to after-school snacks
• Can be customized with additions like peanut butter, different types of Reese’s, or espresso powder for unique variations

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies Recipe Recipe

• The combination of brown butter, three kinds of chocolate chips, and a surprise cheesecake center creates a truly extraordinary cookie that goes way beyond the ordinary chocolate chip cookie.
• The aroma alone is enough to convince anyone to stay, and the taste will leave them wanting more.
• Even those who claim they are not a “sweets person” will find themselves indulging in these cookies. They are irresistible to everyone.
• These cookies are versatile and perfect for any occasion, from holiday cookie exchanges to after-school snacks.
• The recipe offers room for creativity with options to customize the cookies by adding peanut butter, trying different types of Reese’s, or enhancing the chocolate flavor with espresso powder or cinnamon.
• The cookies pair perfectly with a glass of cold milk, coffee, or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
• They make a great addition to dessert gatherings and are guaranteed to disappear quickly from any spread, making them a crowd favorite.
• These cookies have a reputation for impressing guests and creating lasting food memories, making them a go-to recipe for bake sales, dinner parties, or any time you want to make a special treat.

Ingredients for Irresistible Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Cheesecake Filling

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 6 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Cookie Dough

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1¼ cups packed brown sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, for browning
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, room temperature

Mix-ins & Toppings

• 1 cup mini Reese’s peanut butter cups, plus extra for topping
• ¼ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips, plus extra for topping
• ¼ cup milk chocolate chips, plus extra for topping
• ½ cup white chocolate chips, plus extra for topping

How to Make Irresistible Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Cheesecake Filling

Using a hand mixer or stand mixer with paddle attachment, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla in a medium bowl until smooth and creamy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place 12 half-tablespoon dollops of the filling onto the sheet. Freeze for 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

Cube butter and place in a heavy saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until melted, foamy, golden brown, and fragrant. Remove from heat and transfer to a heat-safe bowl to cool.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Once the brown butter has cooled, sift the flour, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl.

Step 4: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the cooled brown butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and lump-free.

Step 6: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Combine room temperature eggs and vanilla extract with the butter-sugar mixture, whisk until smooth and glossy.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Combine the sifted dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, gently folding together until just combined, avoiding overmixing.

Step 8: Add Mix-ins

Carefully incorporate the semi-sweet chocolate chips, milk chocolate chips, white chocolate chips, and mini Reese’s cups into the dough without overmixing.

Step 9: Form Cookies

Portion the dough using a ¼ cup measure or ice cream scoop. Flatten each portion into a disc, place a frozen cheesecake dollop in the center, and fold the cookie dough around it to enclose the filling. Top each cookie with extra chocolate chips and mini Reese’s.

Step 10: Bake

Arrange 6 cookies on the baking sheet, ensuring enough space between each. Bake for 10 minutes until edges are set and bottoms are golden brown; centers may appear slightly undercooked.

Step 11: Shape Cookies (Optional)

If desired, while the cookies are still warm, use a large round cookie cutter or measuring cup to shape them into perfect circles by gently swirling around each cookie.

Step 12: Add Toppings

While the cookies are still warm, gently press extra chocolate chips and mini Reese’s cups onto the surface.

Step 13: Cool

Cool the cookies completely on the baking sheet to allow them to set properly with the cheesecake filling.

Step 14: Serve

Serve and enjoy the cookies once they have cooled completely.

Storage Tips

To store these delectable Reese’s cheesecake cookies, allow them to cool completely at room temperature first. Once cooled, place the cookies in an airtight container with a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 3-4 days for optimal freshness. If you plan to enjoy them later, you can also freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm and gooey again.

For longer storage, you can also refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week. Keep in mind that refrigeration can alter the texture slightly, but they will still taste delicious. Before serving, allow the cookies to come to room temperature to regain their full flavor and texture. Whether you’re storing them for a few days or a few weeks, these cookies are sure to bring joy and delight whenever you decide to indulge in their irresistible flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lactose-free option, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. This swap will still provide the creamy texture and tangy flavor to the cookies. Additionally, if you’re looking to reduce the sugar content, you can try using a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol in place of granulated sugar. Be mindful of the sweetness level and adjust according to your preference.

If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can customize the chocolate chips used in the recipe. Feel free to experiment with dark chocolate chips, butterscotch chips, or even caramel chips instead of the suggested semi-sweet, milk, and white chocolate chips. This variation will give the cookies a unique twist while still maintaining the rich, decadent quality. You can also swap the Reese’s peanut butter cups for another nutty candy like Snickers or almond butter cups to add a different flavor dimension to the cookies.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning these Reese’s cheesecake cookies into an indulgent dessert by sandwiching a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two warm cookies. The contrast of the cold, creamy ice cream against the warm, gooey cookies is sure to delight your taste buds and create a memorable treat for any occasion.

Another fun idea is to crumble these cookies over a bowl of creamy peanut butter ice cream for a decadent dessert sundae. Top it off with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of chopped peanuts for an extra crunch. This playful twist on a classic dessert is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

FAQs for Irresistible Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies Recipe

Can I use margarine instead of unsalted butter for browning in this recipe?

While margarine can be substituted for unsalted butter in some recipes, it’s best to stick with unsalted butter for browning in this recipe. The flavor and browning process are different with margarine, which can affect the overall taste and texture of the cookies.

Can I make the cheesecake filling ahead of time and refrigerate it?

Yes, you can make the cheesecake filling ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it in the cookies. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before filling the cookie dough to ensure it spreads easily and bakes evenly.

Can I freeze the Reese’s cheesecake cookie dough for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Shape the dough into balls or portions, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the dough portions to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

How should I store the Reese’s cheesecake cookies if I want to make them in advance?

To store the cookies if you want to make them in advance, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze the baked cookies for longer storage; just make sure to thaw them at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

I hope this recipe for Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine. The blend of brown butter, multiple chocolate chips, and that creamy cheesecake surprise in the center makes these cookies a true standout. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just to brighten a regular day, these cookies are sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone who tries them.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe – whether you’re adding extra peanut butter, trying different mix-ins, or playing with additional flavors, there are endless possibilities to make these cookies your own. The magic of Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies lies not just in their delicious taste but in the memories they create with every batch baked. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to savor the sweet rewards of these delightful cookies. Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious journey with Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies!