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If you love that classic peanut butter and chocolate match, these Reese's Peanut Butter Cookie Bites are just right. A soft cookie base hugs a creamy peanut butter middle with chocolate chips sprinkled in for a nice crunch and melty bite every time.
The first time I made these on a lazy afternoon, they vanished fast. Now I always bring them out at family get-togethers and everyone lights up.
What You Need
- Butter without salt: softened so the dough mixes smooth but isn't greasy
- Brown sugar: gives moisture and a hint of caramel flavor
- White sugar: balances the sweetness and keeps the cookie soft
- Egg: optional but helps make it rich and hold together; room temp is best
- Vanilla: boosts all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness
- Plain flour: adds structure; spoon and level to measure right
- Smooth peanut butter: makes the creamy center; pick a natural tasting brand
- Powdered sugar: smooths and sweetens the peanut butter filling
- Chocolate chips (semi-sweet): add melty chocolate pops throughout
- Optional add-ons: crushed Reese’s Pieces or mini M&Ms add crunch and color
- Egg yolk mixed with water: brushed on top for a pretty golden finish
How to Make Them
- Warm up the oven:
- Turn the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin pan with paper cups so the cookies come off easily.
- Mix the dough:
- Beat the softened butter with brown and white sugars in a big bowl until light and fluffy. This traps air and makes cookies tender. Stir in egg if you're using it, plus vanilla. Add flour little by little until you get a soft dough that’s easy to handle and not sticky.
- Make peanut butter centers:
- In another bowl, mix creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar until smooth. Roll into tiny balls about a teaspoon each. Chill in the fridge for around 10 minutes so they firm up.
- Put it all together:
- Press cookie dough into each muffin cup, making a little well in the middle. Pop one peanut butter ball in the center. Sprinkle on chocolate chips and any fun toppings you like. Cover lightly with some more dough, pressing gently but leaving some chips showing.
- Give them a glaze:
- Brush the tops with a mix of egg yolk and water to get a shiny golden look once baked.
- Bake:
- Slide the pan into the oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch for edges to get lightly golden while centers stay soft and just set.
- Cool before taking out:
- Let them rest in the pan for at least 5 minutes so the centers firm up but stay gooey. Move to a wire rack to cool if you want.
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Peanut butter is my top pick here because it adds richness and balances the sweet cookie and chocolate perfectly. I still remember sharing these at a picnic where the kids didn’t want to share because they loved them so much.
Keeping Them Fresh
Keep cooled cookie bites in an airtight container on your counter for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them spread out on a tray first, then pop them into a sealed bag or container. Let thaw at room temp before you dig in, and they’ll taste almost fresh made.
Switch It Up
If you need gluten-free, use a flour blend with xanthan gum to get the right texture. You can swap peanut butter for almond or sunflower butter if someone has allergies but expect a different flavor. For chocolate chips, dark chocolate gives a richer, less sweet hit, while milk chocolate is sweeter.
Best Ways to Enjoy
They’re awesome with a cold glass of milk or a warm coffee for a quick, tasty treat. Great for parties or to pack in a lunchbox surprise. For dessert, heat them a little and serve with vanilla ice cream.
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Common Questions
- → What keeps the cookie bites from sticking to the muffin tin?
You can either grease each cup lightly or use paper liners so the bites don’t get stuck and come out easily.
- → Why do you brush the bites with egg yolk before baking?
The egg yolk brush gives them a nice golden shine and makes them look extra tasty after baking.
- → Can I swap peanut butter with another nut spread?
Absolutely, almond or cashew butter works well if you want a different but just as creamy flavor.
- → What’s the reason for chilling the peanut butter mix before baking?
Chilling helps the peanut butter balls keep their shape and makes the center nice and gooey once baked.
- → How do add-ons like nuts or candies change the texture?
Extras like chopped peanuts or little candies add a nice crunch and mix up the soft dough and smooth chocolate.