Some recipes have a way of stealing the show, no matter what else is on the dessert table. These Peanut Butter Cup Cookies are exactly that kind of treat. With a soft peanut butter cookie base and a gooey Reese’s peanut butter cup nestled in the center, these little bites of joy are impossible to resist.

This recipe is simple to make, requiring only a few pantry staples and a trusty mini muffin pan. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, party, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Let’s explore how to create this irresistible classic!

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What Makes These Cookies Special?

Perfect Balance: Sweet, salty, creamy, and nutty flavors combine for an unforgettable bite.
Easy to Make: Straightforward steps make this recipe accessible to beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
Kid-Friendly: From unwrapping Reese’s cups to helping with shaping the dough, kids will love being part of the process.
Party Favorite: Their bite-sized design makes them perfect for sharing and enjoying on the go.

Ingredients: The Sweet and Simple Lineup

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these delightful treats:

Dry Ingredients:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cookies, providing structure.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor of the peanut butter.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Ensures the cookies rise slightly for a soft texture.

Wet Ingredients:

½ cup unsalted butter: Adds richness to the dough.
½ cup white sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb.
½ cup peanut butter: The star ingredient for a nutty, creamy flavor.
½ cup packed brown sugar: Adds depth and moisture.
1 egg: Binds the dough together.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors.
2 tablespoons milk: Helps create a soft, pliable dough.

The Showstopper:

40 Reese’s miniature chocolate-covered peanut butter cups: These bite-sized candies are the heart of the cookies.

How to Make Peanut Butter Cup Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather your mini muffin pans. No greasing is necessary, as the cookie dough contains enough butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together:

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda

Set this aside. Sifting ensures the ingredients are evenly distributed and helps prevent clumps in the dough.

Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together:

½ cup softened butter
½ cup white sugar
½ cup peanut butter
½ cup packed brown sugar

Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air into the dough, creating soft and tender cookies.

Add in:

1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk

Mix until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until a cohesive dough forms. The dough should be soft but firm enough to hold its shape.

Step 5: Shape the Dough

Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Place each ball into the cup of an ungreased mini muffin pan.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 8 minutes. The cookies should be just set and slightly golden on the edges.

Step 7: Add the Peanut Butter Cups

As soon as you remove the cookies from the oven, press a mini Reese’s peanut butter cup into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookies will slightly melt the chocolate, helping it adhere perfectly.

Step 8: Cool and Remove

Allow the cookies to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Use a butterknife or small fork to carefully pop them out of the pan if needed. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the perfect creamy texture.
Unwrap Ahead of Time: Unwrap all 40 Reese’s cups before you start baking to streamline the process.
Don’t Overbake: Pull the cookies out as soon as they’re set; overbaking can lead to a crumbly texture.
Use Quality Peanut Butter: Stick to creamy peanut butter for a smooth, consistent dough. Avoid natural peanut butter, as it can separate and affect the texture.
Cool in the Pan: Allow the cookies to cool slightly in the pan to firm up before removing them.

Variations to Try

While this classic recipe is hard to beat, here are some fun twists to customize your cookies:

Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Use dark chocolate peanut butter cups for a richer flavor.
Add Some Crunch: Fold in chopped peanuts or crushed pretzels into the dough.
Holiday Flair: Top each cookie with red and green sprinkles after pressing in the Reese’s cup.
Peanut Butter Explosion: Use Reese’s Pieces instead of peanut butter cups for a colorful twist.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Storage

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Serving Ideas

Serve warm for a gooey, melty chocolate center.
Pair with a cold glass of milk, coffee, or hot cocoa for the ultimate comfort treat.
Add them to a holiday cookie platter alongside other festive favorites.

Why Everyone Loves These Cookies

The magic of these cookies lies in their simplicity. They’re easy to make, use familiar ingredients, and combine two beloved flavors: peanut butter and chocolate. The soft cookie base paired with the gooey Reese’s cup is a match made in dessert heaven.

Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just for yourself, these cookies are a surefire way to bring joy to any occasion.

Baking Memories That Last

Baking these Peanut Butter Cup Cookies is more than just creating a treat; it’s about making memories. From the satisfying process of pressing the Reese’s into the warm cookies to the delight of sharing them with loved ones, every step brings a little more sweetness into your day.

So, grab your mini muffin pans, unwrap some Reese’s, and let the baking adventure begin. Happy baking! 😊