Introduction to Reese’s Crinkle Cookies
Hey there, foodie friends (and particularly the sweet tooth crew like myself) who sometimes crave something yummy to brighten up your day. Enter, my Reese’s Crinkle Cookies. Little delectable treats with a soft, chewy texture and jam-packed with mini peanut butter cups in each bite. They get the job done when you’re craving something sweet, and they’re a great way to show off to your friends and family. Just think about how great it is to make something that good, even when you’re so busy. Let’s get on this baking adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Reese’s Crinkle Cookies
You guys! I think you’re going to love these Reese’s Crinkle Cookies, not only because they’re so easy to make but because they’re so darn tasty and will put a smile on someone’s face the second they take a bite. Just 40 short minutes later, you have warm delicious cookies to cure your craving or share the love with friends. There’s something about chocolate and peanut butter together that kind of just works and is completely scrumptious. Truly, baking has never been easier.
Ingredients for Reese’s Crinkle Cookies
Let’s explore the fantastic ingredients that come together to create these mouthwatering Reese’s Crinkle Cookies. Each ingredient adds its unique touch, ensuring every bite is as delightful as the last!
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of our cookies, it gives them structure and helps achieve that chewy texture.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: This ingredient is key for that rich chocolate flavor, creating a beautiful contrast with the sweetness of peanut butter.
- Baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cookies rise and achieve that lovely crinkly texture on top.
- Table salt: It balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors in our cookies. Just a pinch does wonders!
- Creamy peanut butter: I prefer creamy for its smooth consistency, which blends beautifully into the dough. Devine deliciousness awaits!
- Salted butter: Softened to room temperature, butter adds richness and moisture. It’s best for that melt-in-your-mouth experience!
- Dark brown sugar: The packed goodness gives our cookies a slight molasses flavor and chewy texture that’s hard to resist.
- Large egg: This helps bind everything together while providing moisture, bringing life and lift to our cookies.
- Pure vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile, sending your taste buds on an adventure.
- Miniature peanut butter cups: The heart of these crinkle cookies! Each bite reveals melted peanut butter joy, bursting with flavor.
- Granulated sugar: This sugar coats the dough balls, helping create a sugary crunch on the outside.
- Powdered sugar: Adding powdered sugar gives these cookies that characteristic crinkly appearance, making them simply irresistible!
For exact measurements of each ingredient, check the bottom of the article; you’ll find them ready for easy printing. Happy baking!
How to Make Reese’s Crinkle Cookies
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s bring those Reese’s Crinkle Cookies to life! Follow these simple yet effective steps for cookie perfection. Trust me; it’s easier than you think!
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
To start, sift the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt together in a medium-sized bowl. Sifting not only removes lumps but also ensures our cookies have that lovely, light texture. Trust me; this little step makes a big difference!
Step 2: Combine Peanut Butter and Butter
Next up, beat the creamy peanut butter and softened butter together in a mixing bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easier mixing—no one likes clumpy dough! This combination creates a rich base full of flavor.
Step 3: Mix in Sugar
Now, sprinkle in the dark brown sugar and mix until fully combined. This will give our cookies that lovely, gooey texture and caramel undertones that pair perfectly with chocolate. Take a moment to admire that beautiful mixture!
Step 4: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Crack in the large egg and pour in the pure vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth and there are no yellow streaks. This step brings all the flavors together, creating a delightful harmony in your cookie dough!
Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Slowly add your sifted dry mixture to the peanut butter mixture. Mix it in gradually, just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep that soft, chewy texture for our Reese’s Crinkle Cookies!
Step 6: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is ready, cover it and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Chilling is essential; it prevents spreading and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Plus, it makes the dough easier to handle!
Step 7: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. This simple act makes those subsequent steps a breeze!
Step 8: Shape the Cookies
Take the chilled dough and roll it into small balls, placing a halved miniature peanut butter cup in the center of each. Encase the cup snugly within the dough—think of it as a warm, gooey hug waiting to happen!
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Place your dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want that lovely crackled surface to appear, signaling they’re ready!
Step 10: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, let the cookies rest on the baking sheets for a few minutes. This waiting game makes a world of difference, allowing them to firm up. Then, transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Use a cookie scoop to ensure uniform size and baking consistency.
- Don’t skip the chilling time; it prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
- Always measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
- Experiment with mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts for added crunch.
- For a perfect finish, dust with extra powdered sugar just before serving!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A medium-sized bowl works well; you can also use a large one for easier mixing.
- Hand mixer: An electric mixer makes blending easier, but a whisk will do if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Sifter: Essential for ensuring a lump-free dry mixture; a fine mesh strainer can substitute.
- Baking sheets: Use regular or non-stick sheets; parchment paper prevents sticking.
- Cooling rack: This helps cookies cool evenly; a plate works in a pinch!
Variations
- Peanut Butter Lovers: For an intense peanut butter experience, use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious treat everyone can enjoy!
- Chocolate Overload: Add chocolate chips or chunks to the dough for extra chocolaty goodness.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch.
- Mint Lovers: Add a few drops of peppermint extract or crushed candy canes for a festive twist!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these delightful Reese’s Crinkle Cookies with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic treat.
- For an adult twist, serve alongside a hot espresso or creamy cappuccino.
- Present the cookies in a decorative tin for gifting or a charming display on a dessert platter.
- Try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a scrumptious cookie à la mode experience!
- Dust with extra powdered sugar for an elegant finish, making them look extra special.
FAQs about Reese’s Crinkle Cookies
What makes these cookies crinkle? The unique crinkle appearance comes from the combination of cocoa powder and sugar coating. As they bake, the sugar melts and creates that lovely crackled effect!
Can I use natural peanut butter instead of creamy? You can, though it may lead to a slightly different texture and flavor. I recommend using unsweetened natural peanut butter that’s well-stirred to maintain consistency.
How should I store leftover cookies? Store your Reese’s Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about a week—if they last that long!
Can I freeze the cookie dough? Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped dough balls for up to three months. Just pop them in the oven directly from the freezer and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Are these cookies suitable for vegans? To make a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg and use plant-based butter and peanut butter. They’ll still be delicious!
Final Thoughts
Baking those Reese’s Crinkle Cookies is magic of more than just mixing together ingredients. One bite of the soft and chewy cookies will take you back to those times when little things in life brought so much joy. Be it staying snuggled up indoors or having company of friends, these cookies work as ideal partners for all occasions that one would go through. And the happiness of finding the tucked away peanut butter cup is double. Apron on? Well, then come along with me on this joyful ride and let’s create memories with every delightful cookie we bake!
Print
Reese’s Crinkle Cookies
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 15 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Reese’s Crinkle Cookies are a delicious treat with a soft and chewy texture, filled with miniature peanut butter cups for added delight.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon table salt
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- ½ cup salted butter, softened to room temperature
- ¾ cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 15 halved miniature peanut butter cups
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup powdered sugar, sifted
Instructions
- Sift the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt into a medium-sized bowl.
- Using a mixer, beat the peanut butter and butter together until smooth.
- Add the dark brown sugar and mix until combined.
- Lower speed and add the egg, mixing until no yellow streaks remain.
- Add vanilla and mix until no brown streaks remain.
- Add the flour mixture gradually, mixing just until incorporated.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper or foil.
- Roll cookie dough into balls, with a peanut butter cup half in the center, and coat with granulated and then powdered sugar.
- Space dough balls 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until the surface is crackled. Allow cookies to rest on baking sheets before transferring to a cooling rack.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened for easier mixing.
- Chilling the dough is essential to prevent spreading during baking.
- Adjust baking time based on your oven’s performance.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
