Reese's Peanut Butter Bites

These Reese's Peanut Butter Cookie Bites are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the classic combo of peanut butter and chocolate in a convenient, bite-sized form. They bring together a tender cookie base with a rich peanut butter center and bursts of chocolate chips, delivering a satisfying mix of creamy and crunchy textures in every bite.

I first baked these on a lazy Sunday and was amazed how quickly they disappeared. Now they’re a staple at family gatherings and always bring smiles all around.

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: softened to room temperature to create a smooth dough that’s not greasy
• Brown sugar: adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor to the cookie base
• Granulated sugar: balances sweetness and helps with a tender crumb
• Egg: optional but adds richness and helps bind ingredients; room temperature is best
• Vanilla extract: enhances all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness
• All-purpose flour: for structure; spoon and level it for accuracy
• Creamy peanut butter: provides the signature creamy center; choose a quality brand with a natural taste
• Powdered sugar: smooths out the peanut butter filling and adds a touch of sweetness
• Semi-sweet chocolate chips: bring melty chocolate bursts throughout
• Optional toppings: like crushed Reese’s Pieces or mini M&Ms add texture and a fun colorful crunch
• Egg yolk mixed with water for brushing: helps create an appealing golden finish on the cookie bites

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius. Prepare a muffin tin with paper liners so the cookies slip out easily after baking.

Make the Cookie Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process helps to trap air and gives the cookies a tender texture. Add in the egg if using, and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate. Slowly add the flour in batches, stirring until a soft dough forms that holds together but is not sticky.

Prepare the Peanut Butter Centers:

Combine the creamy peanut butter with powdered sugar in a separate bowl. Beat them together until the texture is completely smooth and creamy. Roll this mixture into small balls roughly the size of a teaspoon each. Place these balls in the fridge to chill for about 10 minutes so they firm up and are easier to handle.

Assemble the Cookie Bites:

Press portions of the cookie dough into each prepared muffin cup, forming a small well in the center. Place one chilled peanut butter ball into each well gently. Sprinkle chocolate chips and any optional toppings over the peanut butter center. Cover the tops partially with a bit of remaining cookie dough, gently pressing to seal but leaving some chocolate chips visible.

Brush With Egg Wash:

Mix the egg yolk with water and carefully brush the tops of each cookie bite. This step ensures a shiny golden brown finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Bake:

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn lightly golden while the centers remain just set but not completely hard.

Cool Before Removing:

Let the cookie bites cool in the tin for at least 5 minutes. This allows the peanut butter center to set up without losing its gooey deliciousness. Transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling if desired.

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Peanut butter is my favorite ingredient here because it adds richness and helps balance the sweetness of the cookie and chocolate. One of my best memories is sharing these at a picnic where the kids refused to share because they loved them so much.

Storage Tips

Store cooled cookie bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet first then transfer to a airtight container or bag. Thaw at room temperature before serving, and they’ll taste almost as fresh as new.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour blends if needed, but check that your blend includes xanthan gum for texture. Peanut butter can be replaced with almond or sunflower butter for allergy-friendly options, just keep in mind the flavor will differ. Use dark chocolate chips if you prefer a richer, less sweet chocolate taste or milk chocolate for a sweeter option.

Serving Suggestions

These cookie bites go great with a cold glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a simple indulgent snack. They also make fantastic party treats or lunchbox surprises. For a fun dessert, serve slightly warmed with vanilla ice cream.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I prevent cookie bites from sticking to the muffin tin?

Line the muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup to ensure easy removal and prevent sticking.

→ What is the purpose of the egg yolk wash?

Brushing the cookie bites with an egg yolk wash gives them a beautiful golden and shiny finish after baking.

→ Can I substitute the peanut butter for another nut butter?

Yes, creamy almond or cashew butter can be used for a different but equally rich flavor profile.

→ Why chill the peanut butter mixture before baking?

Chilling helps the peanut butter balls hold their shape and creates a creamy, gooey center after baking.

→ How do the optional mix-ins affect the texture?

Add-ins like chopped peanuts or mini candies introduce crunch and a hint of variety, balancing the soft dough and melty chocolate.