Homemade Reese's Peanut Butter Cookies

Name: Homemade Reese's Peanut Butter Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Creations

I am absolutely thrilled to share my recipe for homemade Reese's Peanut Butter Cookies! These cookies boast a perfect balance of sweet and salty, with a soft, chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more. I love how easy it is to blend creamy peanut butter with rich chocolate, creating a mouthwatering treat. Whether you make them for a special occasion or just because, these cookies are sure to impress anyone who tries them. Trust me, once you get a taste, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:18:38.161Z

Making these homemade Reese's Peanut Butter Cookies has become a delightful little tradition in our household. I remember the first time I mixed up the batter—the aroma of peanut butter filled the kitchen, making it hard to resist. I found that letting the dough chill for just a bit before baking helps the cookies maintain their shape and prevents any spreading, resulting in perfectly caramelized edges and chewy centers.

What I love most is the unexpected crunch of chocolate chips hidden within every bite. It’s a simple addition that takes them to the next level. The satisfaction on my family's faces as we break these cookies open and see the gooey chocolate inside is truly priceless!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich peanut butter flavor enveloped in soft, chewy goodness
Chocolate chips that melt perfectly with each bite
Quick and easy to make, perfect for any occasion

      

Choosing the Right Peanut Butter

Selecting the right peanut butter is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies. I recommend using creamy peanut butter rather than chunky; the creamy variety blends seamlessly into the dough, creating a soft, chewy texture that complements the chocolate chips. Be sure to choose a natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils for a more authentic flavor that perfectly balances the sweetness of the sugar.

If you're looking for a healthier option, you can use a natural peanut butter with reduced sugar. Keep in mind that this may alter the sweetness of your cookies slightly, so adjust the amount of granulated sugar if necessary. Most importantly, avoid using low-fat or reduced-fat versions, as they often contain additives that can affect the baking process.

Baking Techniques for Perfect Cookies

For optimal results, it's essential to mix your ingredients thoroughly but avoid over-mixing the dough. Over-mixing can incorporate too much air, leading to cookies that are puffier instead of soft and chewy. It’s best to stop mixing as soon as you see no dry flour left. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky, which helps maintain a tender texture during baking.

When scooping the dough, using a cookie scoop can standardize the size of your cookies, ensuring even baking. For a delightful finishing touch, press a few extra chocolate chips into the tops of the cookies before baking. This not only enhances the chocolate flavor but also makes for an appealing presentation once they’re cooled.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, egg, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Fold in Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips

For a delightful twist, try adding chopped peanuts or an extra sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking.

Storing and Freezing Cookies

To maintain the freshness of your cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and chewy for about a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Allow the cookies to cool completely, then layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months, and you can pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that freshly baked taste.

If you're planning to serve these cookies at a later date, it’s best to underbake them slightly (about 8-9 minutes) for the softest texture once reheated. This way, when you pull them out of the freezer and microwave them, they'll remain delectable and chewy, almost as if they've just come out of the oven.

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the great things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. For a delightful twist, consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies right before baking for an exquisite sweet-and-salty contrast. You can also incorporate chopped nuts or a swirl of caramel for added richness and texture.

If you’re looking to cater to different dietary preferences, you can substitute the granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option. For a gluten-free version, make sure your baking soda and chocolate chips are certified gluten-free. These substitutions allow everyone to enjoy the soft, rich flavors of these cookies without compromising on taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter works well too and adds extra texture!

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the dough for later use?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to three months. Just scoop the dough and freeze it on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.

→ What can I substitute for the egg?

You can use a flax egg as a vegan alternative: mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.