Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies Recipe

I love making these Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies whenever I want something soft, chewy, and packed with peanut butter flavor. The colorful candy pieces add the perfect crunch and sweetness, making these cookies a fun dessert for parties, holidays, or simple afternoon treats. I find that they stay soft for days and always disappear quickly from the cookie jar.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy these cookies are to make with simple pantry ingredients. The peanut butter creates a rich and creamy flavor while the Reese’s Pieces add pops of sweetness and crunch in every bite. I also like that the dough comes together quickly without any complicated steps. These cookies bake up soft in the center with lightly crisp edges, which makes them irresistible fresh from the oven.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup Reese’s Pieces candies

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, I cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
3. I mix in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. I gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until a soft dough forms.
6. I fold in the Reese’s Pieces candies evenly throughout the dough.
7. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, I place rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. I bake the cookies for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain soft.
9. I let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

• Servings: About 24 cookies
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: About 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use chunky peanut butter for extra texture and crunch. When I want even more chocolate flavor, I mix in mini chocolate chips along with the Reese’s Pieces. I also enjoy adding chopped peanuts for a salty contrast. For holiday versions, I swap the candies with seasonal Reese’s Pieces colors to match celebrations.

storage/reheating

I store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, I freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. I like reheating a cookie in the microwave for about 10 seconds to make it warm and soft again.

FAQs

Can I use natural peanut butter?

I prefer regular creamy peanut butter because natural peanut butter can make the dough too oily or crumbly.

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, I freeze scoops of cookie dough on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

I make sure not to overbake them. The centers should still look slightly soft when I remove them from the oven.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Absolutely. I often mix in mini chocolate chips for extra sweetness and texture.

Do I need to chill the dough?

I usually bake the dough right away, but chilling it for 20–30 minutes can help create thicker cookies.

Conclusion

I enjoy making these Reese’s Pieces Peanut Butter Cookies because they are simple, colorful, and full of rich peanut butter flavor. The combination of soft cookie texture and crunchy candy coating makes every bite satisfying. Whether I bake them for family gatherings or weekend treats, they always turn out delicious and crowd-pleasing.