Indulge in the ultimate fusion of flavors with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Brownie Cookies. This delectable treat combines the rich, chocolatey goodness of brownies with the creamy, nutty delight of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, all wrapped in a soft, chewy cookie. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these irresistible cookies from scratch.
Overview of the Recipe
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Brownie Cookies are a creative twist on classic cookie recipes, combining three beloved treats into one mouthwatering dessert. The process involves encasing a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup in cookie dough, dipping it in brownie batter, and baking it to perfection. The result is a cookie that is crisp on the outside, gooey on the inside, and bursting with rich peanut butter and chocolate flavors.
History and Origin
The concept of combining different desserts into a single treat has been around for years, driven by the desire to create new and exciting flavor experiences. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, introduced by H.B. Reese in 1928, have been a staple in American candy culture for nearly a century. Brownies, originating in the United States at the end of the 19th century, and cookies, with a history dating back to Persia in the 7th century, are both iconic desserts. This recipe brings together these classic elements into a modern, innovative treat that celebrates the best of each.
Ingredients
- 1 (10 oz) bag of brownie mix (plus the oil and egg required to make the batter)
- 1 (6 pack) Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (12 cups total)
- 1 (16 oz) package of refrigerated cookie dough
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Brownie Mix
Follow the instructions on the brownie mix package to prepare the batter. Typically, this involves mixing the brownie mix with oil and an egg until well combined.
3. Prepare Cookie Dough
Take the refrigerated cookie dough and divide it into 12 equal portions. Flatten each portion slightly to make it easier to wrap around the peanut butter cups.
4. Assemble Cookies
Place a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup in the center of each flattened cookie dough portion. Carefully wrap the cookie dough around the peanut butter cup, ensuring it is fully enclosed. Roll the dough in your hands to create a smooth ball.
5. Combine with Brownie Mix
Dip each cookie dough ball into the prepared brownie batter, coating it completely. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing the balls on the baking sheet.
6. Bake
Place the coated cookie dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set and slightly cracked on top.
7. Cool and Serve
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help them firm up and achieve the perfect texture.
Serving
These cookies are best enjoyed warm when the peanut butter cups are still slightly melted, and the brownie coating is soft and chewy. Serve them with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions
- Beverages: Pair these cookies with a cold glass of milk, hot cocoa, or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. For a refreshing twist, try them with a chilled glass of almond milk or a creamy milkshake.
- Ice Cream: Serve the cookies with a scoop of vanilla, chocolate, or peanut butter ice cream. The contrast between the warm cookie and the cold ice cream creates a delightful dessert experience.
- Fruit: For a slightly healthier option, pair these cookies with fresh berries or sliced bananas. The tartness of the fruit complements the rich sweetness of the cookies.
Variations of the Recipe
- Different Fillings: Experiment with different types of candy or chocolate fillings. Try using Snickers, Milky Way, or Rolos for a unique twist.
- Nut-Free Option: For a nut-free version, use nut-free chocolate cups or simply omit the peanut butter cups and add chocolate chips to the cookie dough instead.
- Brownie Variations: Use different flavors of brownie mix, such as chocolate fudge, caramel, or mint, to add a new dimension to the cookies.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free brownie mix and cookie dough to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Health Benefits
While these cookies are undoubtedly a treat, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here are a few health benefits of the ingredients used:
- Peanut Butter: Rich in protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals. It can help promote satiety and provide a quick energy boost.
- Chocolate: Contains antioxidants, such as flavonoids, which have been linked to various health benefits, including improved heart health.
- Eggs: A good source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like vitamins B12 and D.
Notes
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To enjoy warm cookies again, reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
- Customizing Sweetness: If you prefer less sweet cookies, consider using a darker chocolate brownie mix or reducing the sugar in the cookie dough.
FAQs
Q: Can I use homemade cookie dough and brownie batter instead of store-bought? A: Absolutely! Homemade versions will work just as well and can allow you to customize the flavors to your preference.
Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the cookie dough balls and freeze them before dipping in brownie batter. When ready to bake, dip the frozen dough balls in the brownie batter and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: What if I don’t have a 16 oz package of cookie dough? A: You can use any amount of cookie dough; just adjust the portion sizes accordingly. If you have less dough, make smaller cookies or fewer cookies.
Q: Can I use mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups instead of regular-sized ones? A: Yes, you can use mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. You may need to adjust the amount of cookie dough used to wrap them and reduce the baking time slightly.
Conclusion
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Brownie Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the best of brownies, cookies, and peanut butter cups into one irresistible dessert. With their rich, chocolatey flavor and creamy peanut butter center, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious results every time. Enjoy baking and sharing these scrumptious cookies with your loved ones!