Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies

If you’re looking for a cookie that combines the nutty richness of peanut butter with the delightful crunch and color of candy, then look no further! Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect treat that brings together chewy oats, creamy peanut butter, and those iconic chocolatey candies. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why It Deserves a Spot

These cookies deserve a spot in your recipe collection for several reasons. First, the combination of peanut butter and oats creates a hearty texture that is both satisfying and delicious. The addition of Reeses Pieces not only enhances the flavor but also adds a fun visual appeal with their vibrant colors. These cookies are easy to make, requiring simple pantry staples, and they come together quickly, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing snacks for a school lunch, or just craving something sweet, these cookies are the answer.

Ingredient Checklist

To whip up a batch of these delightful Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup peanut butter (creamy or crunchy)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1-1/2 cups Reeses Pieces

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you begin baking, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate measurements
• Electric mixer or whisk – for creaming butter and sugars
• Baking sheet – to hold your cookie dough
• Parchment paper (optional) – for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking
• Cookie scoop or tablespoon – for portioning dough

Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies, Made Easy

Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process to create these irresistible cookies.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the cookies from sticking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter, creamy or crunchy peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, and beat until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Fold in Oats and Reeses Pieces

Gently fold in the rolled oats and Reeses Pieces until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 8: Scoop and Shape the Cookies

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will firm up as they cool.

Step 10: Cool and Enjoy

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your freshly baked Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies with a glass of milk or your favorite beverage!

In-Season Flavor Ideas

If you want to shake things up or celebrate the seasons, consider these flavor variations:

• Add chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for extra crunch.
• Incorporate dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, for a chewy texture.
• Substitute half of the peanut butter with almond butter for a unique twist.
• Mix in a few chocolate chips or butterscotch chips for a richer flavor.

Notes on Ingredients

When making Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies, the choice of peanut butter is crucial. Creamy peanut butter will yield a smooth texture, while crunchy peanut butter adds a delightful bite. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for better mixing. The sugars give these cookies their sweetness and help achieve a chewy texture, so don’t skip either!

Save for Later: Storage Tips

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they will keep for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying!

FAQ

Can I use natural peanut butter for this recipe?

Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but be aware that it may affect the texture of the cookies. Natural peanut butter can be more oily, so you may need to adjust the flour slightly.

What can I substitute for the Reeses Pieces?

If you don’t have Reeses Pieces on hand or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute with M&M’s, chocolate chips, or even mini marshmallows for a fun twist.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! To make gluten-free Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden, and the centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven.

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Serve & Enjoy

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through your kitchen. Serve your Reeses Pieces Peanut Butter Oatmeal Cookies warm with a glass of milk or pack them up to share with friends and family. The combination of peanut butter, oats, and Reeses Pieces will undoubtedly make these cookies a favorite in your home. Each bite is a delightful mix of chewy, crunchy, and sweet that will have everyone coming back for more. Happy baking!