When it comes to homemade cookies, few treats offer the same irresistible combination of flavors as Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies. These cookies perfectly blend the creamy, nutty taste of peanut butter with the rich, smooth sweetness of chocolate, creating a dessert that’s as satisfying as it is indulgent. The addition of instant vanilla pudding mix gives these cookies an exceptionally soft and chewy texture, making them stand out from traditional cookie recipes.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this recipe is designed to be simple and straightforward. You’ll be using common ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry. If you’re a fan of Reese’s peanut butter cups and Reese’s Pieces, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy these candies in a new and exciting form. Ready to elevate your cookie game? Let’s get started!

Ingredients Overview

The magic of Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies lies in its carefully selected ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

• Butter and Peanut Butter: Using unsalted butter ensures you have complete control over the flavor balance in your cookies. Creamy peanut butter is preferred for this recipe, as it provides a smoother, richer texture, ensuring that each bite is perfectly infused with nutty goodness. If you’re interested in learning more about peanut butter, check out this Wikipedia article on peanut butter.
• Sugars: The combination of granulated sugar and brown sugar is key to achieving the ideal cookie texture. Granulated sugar helps the cookies spread properly, while brown sugar adds a chewy texture and a slight molasses flavor that complements the peanut butter. The result is a cookie that’s crispy on the edges and chewy in the center.
• Eggs, Honey, and Vanilla Extract: Eggs are the binding agent in this recipe, holding everything together. The addition of honey adds moisture, enhancing the chewiness of the cookies, while vanilla extract brings a depth of flavor that ties all the other ingredients together. For more information on vanilla extract, check out this Wikipedia article on vanilla extract.
• Dry Ingredients:
  • All-purpose flour forms the foundation of the dough.
  • Baking soda is crucial for the rise and fluffiness of the cookies. Want to know more? Here’s a Wikipedia article on baking soda.
  • A pinch of table salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• Vanilla Pudding Mix: This is the secret ingredient that sets these cookies apart. The vanilla pudding mix not only adds a subtle vanilla flavor but also ensures that the cookies remain soft and chewy for days after baking.
• Add-Ins:
  • Semi-sweet chocolate chips provide rich chocolatey goodness, balancing the sweetness of the other ingredients. Interested in the history of chocolate? Learn more on Wikipedia.
  • Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Reese’s Pieces are the stars of this recipe, providing bursts of peanut butter and crunchy sweetness in every bite.

Choosing the Best Ingredients

Selecting the best ingredients for your Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies is essential to achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

• Butter: Opt for high-quality unsalted butter with a high fat content, such as European-style butter. This type of butter will give your cookies a richer flavor and a more tender texture.
• Peanut Butter: When choosing peanut butter, it’s best to use a commercial creamy peanut butter rather than a natural variety. Natural peanut butters tend to separate, which can affect the texture of your cookies. Look for brands that are known for their smooth, creamy consistency.
• Sugars: Ensure your brown sugar is fresh and soft. If it’s hardened, you can soften it by placing a damp paper towel in the container and microwaving it briefly.
• Eggs: Use large, fresh eggs at room temperature. Cold eggs can cause the butter to solidify, resulting in a less smooth dough.
• Vanilla Pudding Mix: While any brand of instant vanilla pudding mix will work, some bakers prefer brands that offer a richer vanilla flavor. This small addition can make a big difference in the final product.
• Reese’s Candies: For the best results, use fresh Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Reese’s Pieces. Stale candies can lose their crunch and flavor, detracting from the overall experience.

By carefully selecting and preparing your ingredients, you’ll ensure that your Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies turn out perfect every time.

Part 2: Step-by-Step Directions and Tips

Preparation Steps

Creating the perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies starts with following the preparation steps precisely. Each step is designed to ensure your cookies bake evenly and achieve the ideal texture and flavor.

• Step 1: Preheat the OvenPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready by the time your dough is prepared. Preheating is essential because it allows the cookies to start baking immediately, which helps them rise properly and achieve a uniform golden brown color. Consider using a convection setting for even heat distribution.
• Step 2: Prepare the Baking SheetLine your baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Both options prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan, making for easy removal and cleanup. Parchment paper is disposable, while silicone mats are reusable, providing an eco-friendly alternative. This preparation step ensures your cookies bake evenly without sticking.
• Step 3: Creaming the Butters and SugarsIn a large bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, creamy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, which helps the cookies rise and maintain a tender crumb. The sugars dissolve into the butters, creating a smooth base that will evenly distribute throughout the dough. For the best results, use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. Ensure that you scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically to fully incorporate all ingredients.
• Step 4: Adding Eggs, Honey, and VanillaOnce the butter and sugar mixture is creamy and well-combined, add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are fully integrated into the dough, preventing separation during baking. Next, add the honey and vanilla extract. Honey adds a subtle sweetness and extra moisture, contributing to the cookies’ soft texture, while vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile. Continue beating the mixture until everything is smooth and well-combined. This step is key to achieving a dough that is both easy to work with and consistent in texture.
• Step 5: Mixing Dry IngredientsIn a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, table salt, and the vanilla pudding mix. Whisking these dry ingredients together ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed, which is crucial for the cookies’ rise. The pudding mix not only adds flavor but also contributes to the chewy texture by helping to retain moisture during baking. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Overmixing at this stage can result in tough cookies, so it’s important to stop as soon as the flour is fully incorporated.

Baking the Cookies

After preparing the dough, the next steps are all about shaping and baking your Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies to perfection.

• Step 6: Forming the Dough BallsUsing a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion the dough into 36 even-sized balls. This ensures that the cookies bake uniformly, with each one having the same texture and doneness. Rolling the dough into balls by hand helps create a smooth surface that will bake evenly. For added flair, you can lightly press the tops of the dough balls to flatten them slightly. This will help the cookies spread just the right amount during baking, ensuring they are neither too thick nor too thin.
• Step 7: Decorating the TopsBefore placing the dough balls on the baking sheet, press the remaining Reese’s Pieces and halved Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into the tops of each dough ball. This not only adds extra flavor and texture but also makes the cookies look visually appealing with the colorful candies peeking out. It’s a simple yet effective way to give your cookies a professional, bakery-style appearance. Plus, it ensures that each cookie is packed with the classic Reese’s flavor in every bite.
• Step 8: Baking and CoolingPlace the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly golden. The centers will appear soft, but they will continue to firm up as the cookies cool. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling on the rack prevents the cookies from becoming soggy and helps them maintain their chewy texture.

Part 3: Variations, Serving Suggestions, and FAQs

Tips for the Perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies

Achieving the perfect Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips:

• Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can develop too much gluten in the dough, leading to tough cookies rather than the desired chewy texture.
• Chill the Dough: For thicker, chewier cookies, consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This step allows the butter to solidify, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
• Adjust for Altitude: If you’re baking at a high altitude, you may need to make adjustments. Consider adding a bit more flour and reducing the baking soda slightly to account for the lower air pressure.
• Store Properly: To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay soft and chewy for several days. You can also freeze the cookies or the dough for up to three months.
• Get Creative: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of chocolate or candy mix-ins. You can substitute Reese’s Pieces with M&Ms or add a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet and salty twist.

These tips will help you achieve the best possible results every time you bake these delicious cookies.

Variations of the Recipe

While the classic Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to customize and make it your own:

• Mix-in Alternatives: Instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips, try using milk chocolate chips for a sweeter taste, or dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor. You can also add white chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a different flavor profile.
• Flavor Twists: Experiment with different pudding mix flavors. For a more indulgent treat, use chocolate pudding mix instead of vanilla. This will give your cookies a double dose of chocolate flavor. Alternatively, try butterscotch or banana pudding mix for a unique twist.
• Nuts and Other Add-Ins: Add some crunch by mixing in chopped nuts like walnuts, pecans, or almonds. For a hint of coconut, add a small amount of shredded coconut to the dough. Dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, can also be a great addition for those who enjoy a bit of sweetness with a tangy bite.
• Dietary Adjustments: For gluten-free cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the pudding mix, are also gluten-free. To make these cookies vegan, use plant-based butter, a flaxseed egg substitute, and dairy-free chocolate.

These variations allow you to tailor the recipe to your personal preferences or dietary needs while keeping the essence of what makes these cookies so special.

Serving Suggestions

Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

• Pair with Beverages: These cookies are perfect with a cold glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee. For a more indulgent treat, serve them with hot cocoa, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
• Creative Serving Ideas: Make a cookie sandwich by placing a scoop of ice cream between two cookies. Vanilla, chocolate, or peanut butter-flavored ice cream works particularly well. Alternatively, crumble the cookies over a bowl of ice cream or yogurt for a quick and easy dessert.
• Gift Giving: Package these cookies in a decorative tin or box to give as a gift. They make a delightful homemade present for friends, family, or coworkers, especially during the holidays.

These serving suggestions enhance the experience of enjoying Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies and make them suitable for any occasion.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies:

• Why is pudding mix used in the cookie recipe?Pudding mix is used to create a soft, chewy texture. It helps retain moisture, ensuring the cookies stay fresh and tender for days.
• Can I substitute natural peanut butter for creamy peanut butter?While natural peanut butter can be used, it may affect the texture due to its oil separation. For best results, use a commercial creamy peanut butter that doesn’t separate.
• How should I store the cookies to keep them fresh?Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
• Can I freeze the cookie dough?Yes, you can freeze the dough for later use. Roll the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
• How can I make the cookies more chewy/crispy?For chewier cookies, slightly underbake them. For a crispier texture, bake them for an additional minute or two.

Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies

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• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 36 cookies

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

These Reese’s Peanut Butter Pudding Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic peanut butter cookie. Packed with chunks of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and colorful Reese’s Pieces, these cookies are bursting with nutty, chocolaty flavor in every bite.

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Ingredients

¾ cup unsalted butter, softened

½ cup creamy peanut butter

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup packed brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon table salt

1 (3.4-ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 ¼ cups halved Reese’s mini peanut butter cups, divided

1 cup mini Reese’s Pieces, divided

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

In a large bowl, beat together the butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add the eggs, honey, and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and dry pudding mix. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Gently fold in the chocolate chips, 1 cup of the halved Reese’s peanut butter cups, and ¾ cup of the Reese’s Pieces.

Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, form 36 dough balls. Press the remaining candy pieces into the tops of the dough balls for a decorative touch.

Place 12 dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly golden.

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

• Ingredient Substitutions: If you prefer, you can substitute Reese’s Pieces with M&Ms or other candy-coated chocolates. Additionally, milk chocolate or dark chocolate chips can be used instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
• Chilling the Dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help the cookies hold their shape better and enhance the flavor.
• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To enjoy them longer, you can freeze the baked cookies or the raw cookie dough for up to three months. Thaw frozen dough balls at room temperature for a few minutes before baking.
• Yield: This recipe makes about 36 cookies. If you prefer larger cookies, simply use a larger scoop and adjust the baking time accordingly.
• Allergy Warning: This recipe contains peanuts and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies. Ensure all guests are aware of the ingredients if serving at a gathering.
• Presentation Tip: For a more polished look, press a few extra pieces of Reese’s candies into the tops of the dough balls just before baking.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 206 kcal per cookie