Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies: An Irresistible Delight

Okay, these cookies? They’re pure magic. Gooey, peanut buttery, and stuffed with cheesecake—like, wow.

We made a batch last night, and they barely lasted an hour. That soft cookie with the creamy center and melty Reese’s bits? Totally dreamy.

I love how they’re sweet but not too much. And the gooey center? Ugh, it’s the best part. You’ll want to eat them warm—trust me.

Let’s bake some together. They’re easy, fun, and kinda addictive. You’re gonna love every single bite.

Why You’ll Love These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

• A Sweet Combo of Flavors: If you love the balance of sweet, salty, and creamy, these cookies will become your new obsession. The peanut butter cups add a perfect contrast to the smooth, tangy cheesecake filling.
• Soft and Gooey: The best part? These cookies have a gooey texture that’s impossible to resist. They’re thick, soft, and bursting with creamy cheesecake goodness in every bite.
• A Crowd-Pleaser: It’s not just me who loves these cookies—everyone who tries them is instantly hooked. You’ll be hearing, “Wow, can I have the recipe?” all day long.
• Easy to Make: Despite how fancy they may sound, these cookies come together quickly and easily, making them perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday treat, a family gathering, or a late-night snack, these cookies are versatile and sure to please.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process, let’s make sure you’ve got everything you need:

• Electric Mixer or Hand Mixer: This will make combining your ingredients a breeze.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need two—one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients.
• Baking Sheets: Make sure to line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
• Spoon or Cookie Scoop: For consistent cookie portions.
• Cooling Rack: To allow your cookies to cool properly and avoid sogginess.
• Small Bowl: For mixing the cheesecake filling.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these incredible cookies. Don’t worry about fancy ingredients—this is a fun, indulgent recipe that doesn’t require anything too complicated.

For the Cookie Dough:

• Unsalted Butter (softened): 1 cup (2 sticks). This adds a rich, creamy base to the cookies and ensures they’re soft and chewy.
• Granulated Sugar: 3/4 cup. The sugar gives the cookies their sweet flavor and helps them spread out just right while baking.
• Brown Sugar: 1/4 cup. Adds moisture and that delicious caramel undertone to the cookies.
• Eggs: 2 large. Eggs provide structure and moisture to the dough.
• Vanilla Extract: 2 tsp. This classic ingredient enhances the flavor and adds a touch of warmth.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 1/4 cups. This is the backbone of your cookie dough and gives it that perfect chewy texture.
• Baking Soda: 1 tsp. This will help the cookies rise and give them the perfect texture.
• Salt: 1/2 tsp. Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Peanut Butter Cups: 10-12 full-size Reese’s cups. Roughly chopped into chunks, these will give your cookies that signature Reese’s flavor in every bite.

For the Cheesecake Filling:

• Cream Cheese (softened): 8 oz. This provides the rich, tangy flavor that mimics cheesecake in these cookies.
• Powdered Sugar (sifted): 1/2 cup. Adds the sweetness to the cheesecake filling and helps it keep its smooth consistency.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp. Enhances the flavor of the cheesecake filling.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tbsp. This helps thicken the cheesecake mixture, giving it the perfect creamy consistency.

Variations for Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Want to make these cookies your own? Here are some fun variations:

• Add More Peanut Butter: If you’re a peanut butter lover, you can add a 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter to the dough for extra richness.
• Chocolate Chips: For an even more indulgent treat, fold in 1/2 cup of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips into the dough along with the Reese’s chunks.
• Switch to Another Candy: Try swapping the Reese’s cups for chopped Snickers bars, Kit Kat, or M&Ms for a different twist on these cookies.
• Extra Cheesecake Swirl: If you love cheesecake, add an extra layer of cheesecake filling to the middle of the cookie dough before baking. It’ll create a gooey, creamy center.
• Add a Pinch of Cinnamon: A hint of cinnamon in the cookie dough can add warmth and depth to the overall flavor, especially in the colder months.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to make the most gooey, decadent cookies you’ve ever tasted? Let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheets

Before you start mixing ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure the cookies don’t stick and to make cleanup a breeze.

2. Mix the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. It will help ensure that your cookies are soft and chewy.

Next, add the eggs and vanilla extract and beat until well combined. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed. Continue to mix until everything is just combined, being careful not to overmix the dough.

Finally, fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. Be sure the pieces are evenly distributed throughout the dough, ensuring that every cookie will have a delicious peanut butter cup chunk inside.

3. Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a small bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Add the flour and continue to mix until well combined. This will give the filling a thick and smooth texture similar to actual cheesecake.

4. Form the Cookie Dough Balls

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, scoop out about 1.5 tablespoons of cookie dough and roll it into a ball. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, create a small indentation in the center of each cookie dough ball. This will serve as a little pocket for the cheesecake filling.

5. Add the Cheesecake Filling

Spoon about 1 teaspoon of the cheesecake filling into each indentation. Don’t worry if it overflows a little—this will give the cookies that gooey, cheesecake-like appearance after baking.

6. Bake the Cookies

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges, and the cheesecake filling may have a slight golden brown color on top.

The centers may still appear a little soft, but don’t worry! They’ll set as they cool, leaving you with that irresistible gooey texture.

7. Cool the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cheesecake filling set and ensures your cookies won’t fall apart.

Serving and Decoration

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are already an indulgent treat, but if you want to take them to the next level, consider these serving and decoration ideas:

• Top with Extra Reese’s: Once the cookies have cooled, you can place a whole mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup on top of each cookie for a fun and decorative touch.
• Serve with Milk or Ice Cream: These cookies pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Drizzle with Chocolate: For extra decadence, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies. You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate for a festive twist.

Storing Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored for later!

• At Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay soft and chewy.
• In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. To freeze, place the cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature.

How to Make Your Cookies Extra Gooey

If you’re aiming for that extra-gooey texture that melts in your mouth, there are a few tips you can incorporate into your baking process to take these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies to the next level. Let’s explore some advanced techniques for the perfect chewy, gooey result:

1. Use Chilled Cookie Dough

If you want your cookies to spread less while baking (and have that thicker, more gooey texture), chill your cookie dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour before baking. Chilling the dough helps solidify the butter and allows the cookies to bake more slowly, which results in a thicker, chewier cookie. This step is key if you love that perfect, gooey center!

2. Underbake Slightly for Extra Softness

If you’re like me and can’t resist a gooey center, underbaking is your best friend! The best way to ensure a chewy, soft interior is to slightly underbake your cookies by about 1-2 minutes. When you remove them from the oven, they’ll still appear a little soft in the center, but as they cool, the residual heat will set the cookies without drying them out. This results in a wonderfully chewy texture!

3. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

If you want your cookies to have the perfect texture, it’s essential that your butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature before mixing. Cold butter or cream cheese can cause your dough to become too firm, making it harder to mix and resulting in less chewy cookies. Softened butter will help create the light, airy texture needed for gooey cookies.

4. Add a Touch of Cornstarch

For an even chewier texture, try adding 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to the cookie dough. Cornstarch is a secret ingredient in many bakery-style cookies, as it gives them that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture without making them too cakey. It’s a small addition, but it works wonders!

How to Customize Your Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

While Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are a delicious choice for this recipe, you can mix things up with various add-ins or substitutions. Here are a few ways to customize these cookies based on your personal preferences:

1. Try Different Candy Combinations

While Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are undeniably delicious, don’t be afraid to get creative with your candy mix-ins. Here are a few fun options:

• Snickers: If you love a bit of caramel in your cookies, substitute Reese’s with Snickers bars. The caramel adds richness that perfectly complements the creamy cheesecake filling.
• M&Ms: For a burst of color and crunch, swap the peanut butter cups for M&Ms. The candy coating will give your cookies a fun, playful touch.
• Twix: Swap out Reese’s cups for Twix bars, adding a chocolate-caramel crunch to each bite.
• Peanut Butter Chips or Mini Chocolate Chips: For those who like a slightly less sweet version, you can reduce the Reese’s cups and add peanut butter chips or mini chocolate chips for a subtle touch.

2. Switch Up the Cheesecake Filling

While the cream cheese filling is already amazing, you can take it a step further. If you’re craving a more indulgent cheesecake experience, try these twists:

• Add Sour Cream: Mixing in 1/4 cup of sour cream into the cheesecake filling can create a tangier, smoother texture that mirrors traditional cheesecake even more closely.
• Use Flavored Cream Cheese: Consider using flavored cream cheese, such as strawberry, chocolate, or even peanut butter-flavored. These subtle flavors can complement your cookie in unique ways, adding a twist to the classic recipe.
• Add Fruit to the Cheesecake Filling: Try mixing in a few tablespoons of fruit preserves or fruit puree (like strawberry or raspberry) into the cheesecake filling. The sweet and tart flavor will contrast perfectly with the richness of the peanut butter cups.

3. Make Them Vegan or Gluten-Free

If you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions, these cookies can be adapted to suit their needs. Here’s how:

• Vegan Version: To make these cookies vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. Use non-dairy cream cheese for the cheesecake filling and opt for a flax egg or chia egg as a substitute for regular eggs. Make sure the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups you use are dairy-free (some may contain milk).
• Gluten-Free Version: To make these cookies gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the flour blend contains xanthan gum or guar gum, which will help maintain the chewy texture. You may also want to add a little cornstarch to mimic the gluten texture.

How to Ensure the Perfect Cheesecake Filling Consistency

Since the cheesecake filling is the heart of this recipe, it’s important to ensure the consistency is just right. Here are a few tips for getting it perfect every time:

1. Room Temperature Cream Cheese is Essential

If you’ve ever had lumps or a curdled filling in your cheesecake cookies, the culprit is often cold cream cheese. When mixing the filling, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature. This ensures the filling blends together smoothly without any lumps, giving it that velvety, cheesecake-like consistency.

2. Sift the Powdered Sugar

Sifting the powdered sugar before adding it to the cream cheese will help prevent any clumps from forming in the cheesecake filling. Powdered sugar tends to have small clumps, which can create an uneven texture in the filling if not sifted. This simple step will ensure a perfectly smooth filling every time.

3. Don’t Overmix the Cheesecake Filling

While it’s important to ensure everything is combined, don’t overmix the cheesecake filling once the ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can introduce too much air into the mixture, which can make the filling too airy and prevent it from setting correctly. Mix until just smooth and combined for the best results.

How to Serve These Cookies for Maximum Enjoyment

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are already packed with indulgent flavors, but you can elevate the experience even further by serving them in different ways:

1. Serve Warm with a Scoop of Ice Cream

Fresh, warm cookies with a scoop of vanilla or peanut butter ice cream on top is the ultimate indulgence. The cold ice cream melts into the gooey centers of the cookies, creating a delicious contrast of textures and flavors. If you’re feeling extra fancy, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness.

2. Pair with a Hot Beverage

Nothing pairs better with gooey cookies than a hot beverage! Enjoy these cookies with a hot cup of coffee, milk, or hot chocolate. If you’re feeling adventurous, a peanut butter latte or a chai latte could be the perfect accompaniment to these rich cookies.

3. Turn Them into Cookie Sandwiches

These cookies are thick and chewy enough to be turned into cookie sandwiches. Take two cookies, spread a generous layer of ice cream or even peanut butter between them, and enjoy an extra-decadent treat. You can also roll the sides of the sandwich in crushed Reese’s pieces for an even more indulgent experience.

Wrapping Up

By now, you’re well on your way to making the best gooey Reese’s cheesecake cookies of your life. Whether you’re customizing the recipe with different ingredients or perfecting your technique for the ultimate gooey texture, these cookies are bound to impress anyone lucky enough to try them. Not only are they easy to make, but they also deliver that perfect balance of chewy, gooey, peanut butter and cheesecake flavor that everyone craves.

I hope these tips and tricks help you make the most of this irresistible recipe. Enjoy your baking, and remember—cookies like these are best shared with loved ones (or, you know, saved for yourself!).

How to Store Your Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare when it comes to these irresistible treats!), don’t worry—these cookies store well and will still taste just as delicious when you’re ready to enjoy them again. Here’s how to store them properly:

1. Room Temperature Storage

If you plan on eating the cookies within a few days, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container. Be sure to keep the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. These cookies will stay fresh for about 3-4 days this way.

2. Refrigeration for Longer Freshness

If you want to keep them a bit longer, refrigerate the cookies. The cheesecake filling can soften at room temperature, so storing them in the fridge will help maintain their structure and freshness. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent the cookies from drying out. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 week in the fridge.

3. Freezing for Future Enjoyment

Want to make a batch in advance or save some cookies for later? Freezing is an excellent option. Here’s how to freeze your Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies:

• Allow the cookies to cool completely.
• Arrange the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1-2 hours. This will help them freeze individually so they won’t stick together.
• Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Be sure to layer parchment paper between the cookies to prevent sticking.
• Frozen cookies can last up to 2 months. To thaw, simply place them on the counter for about 20-30 minutes, or microwave them for 15-20 seconds for a quick reheat.

Common Troubleshooting Tips for the Perfect Cookie

Even though these cookies are fairly straightforward to make, there are a few potential issues that could arise during baking. Let’s troubleshoot some common problems and how to solve them:

1. Cookies Spread Too Much

If your cookies spread too much and become too thin, the issue could be with the consistency of the dough or the baking process. Here’s how to fix it:

• Chill the Dough: The number one cause of overly spread-out cookies is dough that hasn’t been chilled. Always chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to ensure they hold their shape.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature. If your oven runs hot, it can cause the cookies to spread too quickly. Using an oven thermometer will help you get the perfect bake.
• Use Enough Flour: If you find that your dough is too soft or runny, you may need to add a little more flour. Be sure to measure accurately to avoid an overly wet dough.

2. The Cheesecake Filling Is Too Runny

If your cheesecake filling is too runny and doesn’t hold its shape inside the cookie, it’s likely due to overmixing or not properly chilling it. Here’s how to fix it:

• Don’t Overmix: When making the cheesecake filling, make sure to mix it just until smooth. Overmixing can cause the cream cheese to become too soft and runny.
• Chill the Filling: If your filling is too soft, try chilling it for 20-30 minutes before spooning it into the cookie dough. This will help it firm up and create that creamy, thick center once baked.

3. Cookies Are Too Dry or Crumbly

Dry or crumbly cookies can be a result of too much flour, overbaking, or not enough butter. Here’s how to solve it:

• Check Your Measurements: When measuring flour, use the spoon-and-level method to avoid packing too much flour into the cup, which could make the dough too dry.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: If your butter and cream cheese are too cold, they won’t incorporate as well into the dough, leading to a dry texture. Always use room-temperature ingredients for the best result.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they’re baking. Take them out when the edges are golden but the centers are still slightly soft. They’ll continue to cook as they cool on the baking sheet.

Fun Variations of the Recipe

While the classic Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies recipe is perfection as is, here are some fun variations you can try to put a new spin on these cookies:

1. Chocolate Chip Cheesecake Cookies

If you’re a chocolate lover, swap out the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for your favorite chocolate chips. You can even use a mix of dark, milk, and white chocolate chips for a multi-layered chocolate experience. These cookies will still have the creamy cheesecake filling, but with a delightful chocolate twist!

2. Peanut Butter Lovers’ Cookies

For an extra peanut buttery punch, add 1/4 cup of peanut butter to the cookie dough itself. This will infuse the cookies with an even richer peanut butter flavor, perfectly complementing the Reese’s peanut butter cups inside. If you’re really into peanut butter, you can also roll the dough balls in crushed peanuts before baking for an extra crunch.

3. Mini Cookie Version

If you love bite-sized treats, you can make mini versions of these cookies by scooping out smaller portions of dough. Reduce the baking time by a couple of minutes to ensure they don’t burn. These mini cookies are perfect for parties, snack trays, or sharing with friends!

4. Caramel Cheesecake Cookies

For a decadent twist, try adding caramel sauce to the cheesecake filling. You can swirl a tablespoon of caramel into the cream cheese mixture before spooning it into the cookie dough, or drizzle caramel over the cookies after baking for an added layer of sweetness.

The Perfect Cookie for Every Occasion

Whether you’re making these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies for a special occasion, a holiday celebration, or just because, these cookies will always steal the show. Their rich, indulgent flavors make them perfect for a variety of occasions:

• Holiday Parties: With the chocolate, peanut butter, and creamy cheesecake center, these cookies are perfect for holiday parties. They’ll impress guests and be the talk of the table!
• Bake Sales: These cookies are not only delicious but also look impressive. They’re sure to sell out fast at any bake sale or charity event.
• Family Gatherings: There’s nothing better than sharing homemade cookies with loved ones. These gooey cookies are perfect for family get-togethers, making everyone feel special with every bite.
• Gift Giving: Pack these cookies in a cute tin or jar, tie them with a ribbon, and you’ve got a homemade gift that will delight anyone.

Nutrient	Per Cookie
Calories	210 kcal
Total Fat	11 g
Total Carbohydrates	26 g
Protein	3 g

Final Thoughts

Making Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies is more than just a simple baking project—it’s about creating something irresistible that everyone will love. With the tips, tricks, and variations shared throughout this guide, you now have the tools you need to create the perfect batch every time. Whether you want to keep them classic or try out different variations, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

So grab your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready for a cookie experience like no other. Enjoy every gooey, cheesecake-filled bite, and don’t forget to share the love (or keep them all to yourself!). Happy baking!

Conclusion

These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are the ultimate treat for any peanut butter lover or cheesecake fan! With their rich, gooey centers and decadent combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and creamy cheesecake filling, they’re guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering or as a special indulgence just for yourself.

Whether you’re baking for a party, a bake sale, or simply craving a sweet treat, these cookies will never disappoint. The easy-to-follow recipe ensures that anyone can bake up a batch of these delicious cookies, while the variations allow you to get creative and make them your own.

With a little patience for chilling the dough and a bit of care while baking, you’ll have perfect, chewy, gooey cookies that everyone will love. Don’t forget to store any leftovers properly (though let’s be honest, there probably won’t be any) so you can enjoy them even after the baking session is over.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to create a batch of these irresistible Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies. They’ll quickly become a go-to recipe in your baking rotation!