Of course! Here is the complete, in-depth guide to the ultimate Triple Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookies, crafted for the true peanut butter lover.
An Introduction to Peanut Butter Paradise
Welcome to what can only be described as the pinnacle of peanut butter confections. This isn’t just a peanut butter cookie; this is a symphony of peanut butter in three glorious acts. We start with a rich, chewy peanut butter cookie base, studded with the iconic miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, and finished with chunks of Reese’s Pieces for a glorious crunch and visual pop. Each bite is a textural and flavorful journey, delivering an intense, satisfying peanut butter experience that is nothing short of legendary.
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The Historical Roots of a Classic
The peanut butter cookie itself has humble origins, becoming a staple in American households in the early 20th century as peanut butter grew in popularity. The classic criss-cross pattern, made with a fork, was invented to ensure even cooking of the dense dough.
The Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, created by Harry Burnett (H.B.) Reese in 1928, revolutionized the candy world by perfectly marrying chocolate and peanut butter. This recipe pays homage to that legacy by incorporating his creations directly into the cookie dough, creating a modern classic that celebrates the entire history of peanut butter delights.
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The Formation: Why This Recipe Works
The magic of this cookie lies in its balance. The cookie base is formulated to be sturdy enough to support the candy mix-ins without spreading too thin, yet soft and chewy in the center. The use of both baking soda and baking powder provides the perfect lift and texture. The triple threat comes from:
1. Peanut Butter in the Dough: Provides the foundational, savory-rich flavor.
2. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups: Melt into gooey, chocolatey pockets of joy.
3. Reese’s Pieces: Add a crunchy candy shell and a burst of peanut butter filling that doesn’t melt, ensuring every bite has texture.
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The Grand Ingredient List
For the Cookie Dough:
· 2 ¼ cups (280 g) all-purpose flour
· 1 teaspoon baking soda
· ½ teaspoon baking powder
· ½ teaspoon salt
· 1 cup (2 sticks or 226 g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
· 1 cup (200 g) light brown sugar, packed
· ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
· 1 cup (250 g) creamy peanut butter (not natural/oily)
· 2 large eggs, at room temperature
· 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
The “Triple” Reese’s Mix-Ins:
· 1 ½ cups (about 8 oz or 225 g) miniature Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, unwrapped and halved
· 1 cup (about 6 oz or 170 g) Reese’s Pieces
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The Method: A Step-by-Step Guide to Perfection
1. Prep and Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed for a consistent rise.
3. Cream the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, using a hand mixer or stand mixer with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed for 2-3 minutes, until light and fluffy. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the peanut butter and mix until fully incorporated. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until just combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix! Overmixing leads to tough cookies.
5. The Grand Finale – Fold in the Mix-Ins: Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold in the halved miniature Reese’s Cups and Reese’s Pieces. Reserve a small handful of Reese’s Pieces to press on top of the dough balls for a picture-perfect finish.
6. Chill the Dough (Crucial Step!): Cover the bowl and chill the dough for at least 30-60 minutes. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much and allows the flavors to meld.
7. Scoop and Bake: Using a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between them as they will spread. Gently press a few reserved Reese’s Pieces on top of each dough ball. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers still look slightly soft.
8. Cool to Perfection: Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This allows them to set. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will be very soft when hot but will firm up to the perfect chewy texture as they cool.
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Nutritional Information (Approximate, per cookie)
· Calories: ~220 kcal
· Carbohydrates: 25 g
· Protein: 4 g
· Fat: 12 g
· (Saturated Fat: 5 g)
· Cholesterol: 25 mg
· Sodium: 150 mg
· Sugar: 17 g
Enjoy these as a decadent treat. The nutritional value comes from the joy and satisfaction they provide!
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The Benefits of Indulgence
While these are undoubtedly a treat, they offer more than just empty calories:
· Mood Booster: The combination of carbohydrates, sugar, and peanut butter can trigger the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of well-being and happiness.
· Protein Power: Thanks to the peanut butter and Reese’s candies, these cookies provide a small protein boost (about 4g per cookie), which can help stave off hunger.
· Social Connection: Baking and sharing these decadent cookies is an act of love, strengthening bonds with family and friends.
· Pure Joy: Sometimes, the greatest benefit is the simple, unadulterated pleasure of eating something truly delicious.
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A Note for the True Peanut Butter Lovers
This recipe is your anthem. For the ultimate experience, consider these pro-lover tips:
· Extra Gooey: Under-bake by a minute for an even softer, melt-in-your-mouth center.
· Salted Perfection: Sprinkle a tiny flake of sea salt on top of each cookie right when they come out of the oven.
· The Quadruple Threat: For the truly fearless, drizzle melted peanut butter and chocolate over the cooled cookies.
· Serve Warm: Gently warm a cookie for 10 seconds in the microwave and serve with a cold glass of milk for the ultimate comfort duo.
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Conclusion
The Triple Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookie is more than a recipe; it is a declaration of love for one of the world’s greatest flavor combinations. It takes the familiar and elevates it to the extraordinary. With its perfect chewy texture, rich peanut butter flavor, and delightful pockets of chocolate and candy, this cookie is the ultimate achievement for any baker looking to deliver pure, unapologetic joy. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and prepare to bake your way into peanut butter legend.