Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Name: Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: PT-486424H16M11S
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup chocolate chips; 1/2 cup Reese’s Pieces; Melted chocolate for drizzling (optional)

Author: Lora

Published: May 19, 2025

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Introduction to Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

As a busy home cook, I know the challenges of balancing work, family, and the desire to whip up something delicious. That’s why I absolutely adore my Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies. Imagine biting into a warm cookie, the creamy cheesecake filling melting into your mouth, paired with chocolatey goodness—it’s pure bliss! This recipe is not only quick but impressively simple, making it a favorite for gatherings, or just a sweet treat on a hectic day. Trust me, these cookies will become your new go-to dessert that everyone will rave about!

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

What’s not to love about a dessert that marries the rich goodness of cheesecake with the charm of cookies? These Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies are easy to make, and they come together quickly, perfect for those busy afternoons. Each bite is a delightful mix of creamy and crunchy, creating a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for more. Plus, they’re ideal for sharing with family and friends or simply treating yourself!

Ingredients for Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Ready to dive into the sweet world of Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies? Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouth-watering treat. Don’t worry, the exact measurements are listed at the bottom of the article and are printable for your convenience!

Cream Cheese – This is the star of our cheesecake filling. Make sure it’s softened; nobody wants lumps in their filling!
Powdered Sugar – A perfect sweetener for our cream cheese, adding that melt-in-your-mouth texture. It blends effortlessly!
Vanilla Extract – A splash of this magical liquid enhances both the cream cheese and cookie dough flavors. It’s like a warm hug in baking!
Unsalted Butter – This gives our cookies that rich, buttery flavor. Using unsalted helps control the overall saltiness of the recipe.
Brown Sugar – Adding moisture and that caramel-like flavor, brown sugar is essential for achieving soft, chewy cookies.
Granulated Sugar – For a bit of crunch and sweetness, a balance of white sugar works wonders within the dough.
Large Egg – This binds everything together, providing moisture. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
All-Purpose Flour – The backbone of our cookie dough, helping to create the perfect chewy texture.
Baking Soda – This is our leavening agent, giving the cookies a nice lift while keeping them soft.
Salt – Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, making our cookies taste irresistible.
Chocolate Chips – Because what’s a cookie without chocolate? They add delightful melty pockets in every bite!
Reese’s Pieces – These colorful candies bring a fun crunch and that amazing peanut butter flavor we all love. Feel free to toss in any extra for an even more decadent treat!
Melted Chocolate (Optional) – Drizzling some melted chocolate on top is the cherry on top! It takes the presentation and taste to the next level.

How to Make Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s get into the fun part—making these delectable Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies! Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through every step of the process. With a bit of patience and love, you’ll have cookies that are sure to wow your family and friends.

Step 1: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

Start with the cheesecake filling, which is the heart of our cookies. In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or a whisk, blend until smooth. You want this mixture to be as creamy as a cloud!

Once blended, scoop small dollops onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Think of them as little treasures waiting to be wrapped in cookie dough! Pop the baking sheet in the freezer for at least one hour. This step is crucial; freezing helps maintain that gooey center when baked.

Step 2: Create the Cookie Dough

Next, let’s create the cookie dough that will wrap around our cheesecake-filled nuggets. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. You’re aiming for a light and fluffy texture, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Once you achieve that fluffy consistency, crack in the large egg and add a splash more of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is combined yummy and smooth!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Now, let’s prepare the dry ingredients! In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures even mixing of the ingredients.

Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the buttery wet mixture. Stir gently until it all comes together, showing no dry flour. This dough needs to be a bit thick, which is perfect for the chewy texture we’re after.

Step 4: Assemble the Cookies

It’s time for the exciting part! Take about two tablespoons of your cookie dough and flatten it in your palm. Place one frozen cheesecake filling piece right in the center. Envelop the filling with the dough by pinching the edges together. Make sure it’s sealed tight, or you could lose that gooey goodness while baking!

Repeat this process until all your filling is wrapped up in delicious dough. Place the assembled cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them some room—we want them to spread beautifully!

Step 5: Bake the Cookies

Let’s get baking! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and slide those delightful cookie balls in. Bake for about 12-14 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown. Your house will smell heavenly—like a bakery! Remember, they will look a bit soft in the middle; that’s alright! They’ll firm up as they cool.

Step 6: Final Touches

After pulling the cookies from the oven, give them about 5 minutes to cool on the baking sheet. This allows for easy transfer without breaking. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely.

If you’re feeling a bit extravagant, drizzle some melted chocolate on top for an extra touch of decadence. It’s the cherry on top of what already is a sweet masterpiece!

Tips for Success

Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth filling.
Don’t skip freezing the cheesecake filling; it keeps that gooey texture intact.
Experiment with chocolate chip varieties, like milk or dark, to customize flavor.
For added fun, mix in mini Reese’s cups for an extra crunch!
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep cookies fresh and chewy.

Equipment Needed

Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients; glass or stainless steel works best.
Hand Mixer or Whisk: A hand mixer speeds up blending; a whisk makes for a great workout!
Parchment Paper: Use this to line your baking sheet for easy cleanup; foil works too in a pinch.
Baking Sheet: A sturdy cookie sheet is key; half-sheet pans are perfect!
Spatula: Helps in transferring cookies; silicone is great for non-stick use.

Variations of Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Chocolate Chip Swirl: Mix in a swirl of cream cheese and chocolate for that extra chocolatey goodness.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate those with dietary restrictions.
Peanut Butter Bliss: Swirl in peanut butter into the cheesecake filling for an even richer flavor experience.
Festive Touch: During holidays, add colored sprinkles or use seasonal candies like candy corn or peppermint bits.

Serving Suggestions for Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Coffee or Milk: Pair these cookies with a warm cup of coffee or a tall glass of milk for a classic combo.
Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside fresh strawberries or raspberries to balance the sweetness.
Cookie Platter: Create an inviting dessert platter with an assortment of cookies for gatherings.
Ice Cream: Top a warm cookie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Decorative Plate: Present cookies on a colorful plate, garnished with mint leaves for a touch of elegance.

FAQs about Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies

Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cheesecake filling and freeze it up to a month in advance. Just make sure to assemble and bake the cookies the day you plan to serve them for the best results!

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

While cream cheese is essential for that rich cheesecake flavor, you can substitute it with mascarpone or Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative. Just remember it may slightly alter the texture and taste!

Can I use other candies besides Reese’s Pieces?

Definitely! Feel free to swap out with M&M’s, chocolate-covered pretzels, or mini marshmallows. Just think about what flavors would complement the cheesecake filling. The sky’s the limit!

How should I store any leftover cookies?

To keep these Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also refrigerate them for longer-lasting goodness, or freeze them if you want to keep them for a special occasion!

What makes these cookies so gooey?

It’s all about the frozen cheesecake filling! By freezing it before baking, you ensure that it remains soft and creamy, creating that irresistibly gooey texture in every bite. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!

Final Thoughts

Making Gooey Reese’s Cheesecake Cookies has been a delightful adventure in my kitchen! These cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a joyful experience wrapped in gooey goodness and sweet memories. Every bite brings back the warmth of gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing laughter and stories. Whether you whip them up for a hectic weeknight or special celebrations, they’re sure to spark joy. Embrace the magic of baking, and indulge in the rich flavors and textures you create. Trust me, these cookies will leave you craving more and sharing your sweet success!