Butterscotch Reeses Pudding Cookies

Imagine biting into a cookie that is soft, chewy, and bursting with the delightful combination of butterscotch and peanut butter. Butterscotch Reeses Pudding Cookies are a dreamy treat that marries the rich, buttery flavor of butterscotch pudding with the irresistible goodness of chopped mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. These cookies are not just a dessert; they are an experience. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or simply indulging your sweet tooth, these cookies will steal the show at any gathering. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

The Upside of Butterscotch Reeses Pudding Cookies

What’s not to love about Butterscotch Reeses Pudding Cookies? Here are some of the delightful benefits:

– **Ultimate Flavor Explosion**: The combination of butterscotch and peanut butter is a match made in dessert heaven.
– **Soft and Chewy Texture**: Thanks to the pudding mix, these cookies remain soft and chewy even a few days after baking.
– **Quick and Easy**: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip these cookies up in no time.
– **Great for Sharing**: Perfect for cookie swaps, parties, and family gatherings—everyone will be asking for the recipe!

Ingredient List

To make Butterscotch Reeses Pudding Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/2 cup applesauce or one 4-ounce single serve package
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 (3.4 ounce) package butterscotch instant pudding mix
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, chopped

Tools of the Trade

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following tools handy:

• Mixing Bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to perfect cookies.
• Spatula: To stir and fold in those delicious chopped Reese’s.
• Baking Sheet: A non-stick or lined baking sheet is ideal for baking cookies.
• Cooling Rack: To cool your cookies once they’re out of the oven.
• Electric Mixer: While a hand mixer works, a stand mixer can make the job easier.

Cooking Butterscotch Reeses Pudding Cookies: The Process

Follow these simple steps to create the ultimate Butterscotch Reeses Pudding Cookies:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and rise perfectly.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.

Step 3: Add the Applesauce and Eggs

Mix in the applesauce (or single serve package) until well combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the butterscotch pudding mix, baking soda, and flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in the Chopped Reese’s

Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped mini Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups until evenly distributed throughout the cookie dough.

Step 6: Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely before indulging (if you can resist!).

International Equivalents

If you’re baking globally, here are some equivalents to help you out:

• 1 cup is approximately 240 ml
• 1 tablespoon is about 15 ml
• 1 teaspoon is about 5 ml
• Butter: 1/4 cup is approximately 56 grams

Flavor Logic

The flavor combination in Butterscotch Reeses Pudding Cookies creates a delightful balance:

• Butterscotch: Offers a rich, creamy sweetness that is buttery and delicious.
• Peanut Butter: The chopped Reese’s add a nutty, chocolatey punch that complements the butterscotch perfectly.
• Texture: The soft and chewy cookie base, combined with the chunks of chocolate and peanut butter, creates a satisfying bite.

Storage Pro Tips

To keep your Butterscotch Reeses Pudding Cookies fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
• Reheating: If you like them warm, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that freshly baked taste.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pudding mix?

Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for butterscotch pudding, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla or chocolate for a unique twist on the cookie.

What can I substitute for applesauce?

If you don’t have applesauce on hand, you can use a 4-ounce single serve yogurt container as a substitute, which will keep the cookies moist.

How do I ensure my cookies don’t spread too much?

Make sure your butter is softened but not melted, and chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps maintain the shape of the cookies.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Just ensure the other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Before You Go

As you prepare to embark on your baking adventure with Butterscotch Reeses Pudding Cookies, remember that the joy of baking comes not only from the delicious end product but also the fun of the process. Don’t hesitate to get creative by adding your favorite nuts or even a drizzle of chocolate on top. Enjoy every moment, and happy baking!