
Beyond the Basket: Creative Recipes Using Direct Ship Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs
Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs. The iconic Easter treat. That perfect combination of creamy peanut butter and smooth milk chocolate, shaped into a festive egg. While they are undeniably delicious on their own, did you know you can elevate your baking and cooking game by incorporating these delightful candies into a variety of recipes? And with direct shipping options readily available, getting your hands on a stash of Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs has never been easier, regardless of where you live. This article explores creative and delicious ways to transform your direct-shipped Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs into delectable desserts, snacks, and even breakfast treats! We’ll provide detailed step-by-step instructions to ensure your culinary creations are a resounding success.
Why Direct Ship Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs?
Before diving into the recipes, let’s address why direct shipping is a game-changer for Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg enthusiasts. Let’s face it; sometimes finding these seasonal treasures in stores can be a real challenge. Whether you live in an area with limited availability or simply want to avoid the Easter shopping frenzy, direct shipping provides a convenient and reliable solution.
* **Convenience:** Order from the comfort of your home and skip the crowded stores.
* **Availability:** Access Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs even if they aren’t readily available locally.
* **Freshness:** Direct shipping often ensures you receive the freshest possible product.
* **Bulk Buying:** Stock up for all your baking needs or share the joy with friends and family.
Now that you know the benefits of direct shipping, let’s unlock the possibilities of what you can create with these peanut butter wonders!
Recipe 1: Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg Brownies
Brownies are a classic dessert, and adding Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs takes them to a whole new level of fudgy, peanut butter goodness.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (18-20 ounces) brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, typically oil, eggs, and water)
* 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or as called for by your brownie mix)
* 1/4 cup water (or as called for by your brownie mix)
* 2 large eggs (or as called for by your brownie mix)
* 12 Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, unwrapped and halved
* Optional: 1/4 cup chopped peanuts for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the brownie mix box (usually 350°F or 175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will prevent the brownies from sticking.
2. **Mix the Brownie Batter:** In a large bowl, combine the brownie mix, oil, water, and eggs. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough brownies. A few lumps are okay.
3. **Pour and Arrange:** Pour the brownie batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
4. **Add the Reese’s Eggs:** Arrange the halved Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs evenly over the brownie batter, pressing them slightly into the batter. This will help them bake into the brownies.
5. **Bake:** Bake for the time specified on the brownie mix box, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs. Be careful not to overbake, as this will result in dry brownies. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
6. **Cool and Cut:** Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. This will allow them to set properly.
7. **Optional Topping:** Sprinkle chopped peanuts over the warm brownies immediately after removing them from the oven for added crunch and visual appeal.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Fudge Brownies:** Use a fudge brownie mix for an extra decadent treat.
* **Chewy Brownies:** Substitute melted butter for the oil in the brownie mix.
* **Double Chocolate:** Add chocolate chips to the brownie batter for an even richer chocolate flavor.
* **Peanut Butter Swirl:** Reserve a few tablespoons of melted peanut butter and swirl it into the brownie batter before baking.
* **Mini Brownies:** Bake the brownies in a mini muffin tin for individual bite-sized treats.
Recipe 2: Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg Cookies
These cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with peanut butter flavor, thanks to the addition of Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter
* 12 Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, unwrapped and chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating soft and chewy cookies. Use an electric mixer for best results.
3. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies.
6. **Stir in Peanut Butter and Reese’s Eggs:** Stir in the peanut butter and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons:** Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. The centers may still appear slightly soft, which is fine. They will continue to set as they cool.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chill the Dough:** Chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
* **Sea Salt Sprinkle:** Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
* **Peanut Butter Chips:** Add peanut butter chips to the cookie dough for an extra boost of peanut butter flavor.
* **Different Chocolate:** Use dark chocolate Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs for a richer, less sweet cookie.
* **Make Them Bigger:** For larger cookies, use a larger scoop to drop the dough onto the baking sheets and bake for a few minutes longer.
Recipe 3: Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg Bark
This bark is incredibly easy to make and perfect for gifting or satisfying a sweet craving. It requires no baking and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces milk chocolate chips (or semi-sweet or dark chocolate)
* 1 tablespoon vegetable shortening (optional, for smoother melting)
* 12 Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, unwrapped and roughly chopped
* Optional toppings: chopped peanuts, sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, pretzel pieces
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Chocolate:** In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips and shortening (if using) in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can burn.
2. **Spread the Chocolate:** Pour the melted chocolate onto a parchment-lined baking sheet and spread it into an even layer.
3. **Add Reese’s Eggs and Toppings:** Immediately sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs and any other desired toppings over the melted chocolate.
4. **Chill:** Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
5. **Break into Pieces:** Once the bark is set, break it into pieces. Store in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **White Chocolate Bark:** Use white chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
* **Swirls:** Swirl melted peanut butter into the melted chocolate before adding the toppings.
* **Candy Cane Bark:** Add crushed candy canes for a festive holiday bark.
* **Nutella Bark:** Swirl Nutella into the melted chocolate for a hazelnut twist.
* **Marshmallow Bark:** Add mini marshmallows for a fluffy and sweet bark.
Recipe 4: Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg Milkshake
This milkshake is a decadent and refreshing treat, perfect for a warm day. It’s quick to make and requires minimal ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups vanilla ice cream
* 1/2 cup milk
* 4 Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, unwrapped
* Optional: whipped cream, chocolate syrup, chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. **Pour and Garnish:** Pour the milkshake into a glass and garnish with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, if desired.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Ice Cream:** Use chocolate ice cream for a richer, more chocolatey milkshake.
* **Peanut Butter:** Add a tablespoon of peanut butter for an even stronger peanut butter flavor.
* **Malt Powder:** Add a tablespoon of malt powder for a classic malted milkshake flavor.
* **Espresso:** Add a shot of espresso for a coffee-flavored milkshake.
* **Oreo Milkshake:** Add Oreo cookies for a cookies and cream milkshake.
Recipe 5: Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg Stuffed French Toast
Transform your breakfast into a decadent treat with this Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg stuffed French toast. It’s a surprisingly simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for special occasions.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 slices of bread (challah, brioche, or Texas toast work well)
* 4 Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, unwrapped and quartered
* 2 eggs
* 1/4 cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
* 2 tablespoons butter
* Optional: powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Filling:** Place the quartered Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs between two slices of bread to form a sandwich.
2. **Make the Custard:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.
3. **Soak the Bread:** Dip each sandwich into the custard, making sure to coat both sides evenly. Let the bread soak for a few seconds on each side to absorb the custard.
4. **Cook the French Toast:** Melt the butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the soaked sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Make sure to cook slowly enough that the peanut butter egg melts, but the bread does not burn.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately, topped with powdered sugar, maple syrup, and fresh berries, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Cream Cheese Filling:** Add a layer of cream cheese to the sandwich for a richer filling.
* **Nutella Filling:** Add a layer of Nutella to the sandwich for a hazelnut twist.
* **Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle caramel sauce over the French toast for an extra sweet treat.
* **Bake It:** For a less hands-on approach, bake the stuffed French toast in a baking dish. Arrange the soaked sandwiches in a greased baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
* **Different Bread:** Experiment with different types of bread, such as croissants or bagels.
Recipe 6: Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg Popcorn
Add a touch of sweetness to your favorite movie night snack with this easy Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg Popcorn recipe.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 cups popped popcorn (air-popped or lightly buttered)
* 4 Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, melted
* Optional: Sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, chopped peanuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Pop the Popcorn:** Pop the popcorn and place it in a large bowl. Remove any unpopped kernels.
2. **Melt the Reese’s Eggs:** Melt the Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until smooth. Be careful not to overheat.
3. **Drizzle and Toss:** Drizzle the melted Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs over the popcorn and toss to coat evenly. Use a spatula or spoon to ensure all the popcorn is coated.
4. **Add Toppings:** Sprinkle with sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or chopped peanuts, if desired.
5. **Let Set:** Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it set for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate has hardened.
6. **Break Apart:** Break the popcorn into clusters and enjoy.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Caramel Corn:** Mix in caramel corn for a sweet and salty treat.
* **Pretzel Pieces:** Add pretzel pieces for a salty crunch.
* **Dark Chocolate:** Use dark chocolate Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs for a richer flavor.
* **Coconut Flakes:** Sprinkle with shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
* **Spicy Popcorn:** Add a pinch of chili powder for a sweet and spicy flavor combination.
Recipe 7: Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg Parfaits
These parfaits are a simple and elegant dessert or snack that can be assembled in minutes. They’re perfect for showcasing the layers of flavor and texture.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup vanilla yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
* 1/2 cup granola
* 4 Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, unwrapped and chopped
* Optional: fresh berries, whipped cream
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer the Ingredients:** In a glass or parfait dish, layer the yogurt, granola, and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs. Repeat the layers until the glass is full.
2. **Garnish:** Top with fresh berries and whipped cream, if desired.
3. **Serve Immediately:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Yogurt:** Use chocolate yogurt for a more decadent parfait.
* **Peanut Butter Yogurt:** Use peanut butter yogurt for an extra peanut butter boost.
* **Different Granola:** Experiment with different flavors of granola, such as chocolate chip or maple pecan.
* **Fruit Compote:** Add a layer of fruit compote for a burst of flavor.
* **Cookie Crumbs:** Use crushed cookies instead of granola for a sweeter parfait.
Recipe 8: Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg Energy Bites
Fuel your body with these delicious and healthy energy bites. They’re packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a perfect pre- or post-workout snack.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup rolled oats
* 1/2 cup peanut butter
* 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
* 1/4 cup ground flaxseed or chia seeds
* 1/4 cup shredded coconut
* 4 Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, unwrapped and chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey or maple syrup, ground flaxseed or chia seeds, shredded coconut, and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs.
2. **Mix Well:** Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. **Roll into Balls:** Roll the mixture into bite-sized balls.
4. **Chill:** Place the energy bites in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
5. **Store:** Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Protein Powder:** Add a scoop of protein powder for an extra protein boost.
* **Dried Fruit:** Add chopped dried fruit, such as cranberries or raisins, for added sweetness and texture.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add mini chocolate chips for a chocolatey treat.
* **Nut Butter:** Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.
* **Seeds:** Add sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for added nutrients and crunch.
Recipe 9: Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg S’mores
Upgrade your classic s’mores with the addition of Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs! This simple twist adds a delightful peanut butter flavor to the campfire favorite.
**Ingredients:**
* Graham crackers
* Marshmallows
* Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, unwrapped
**Instructions:**
1. **Toast the Marshmallow:** Toast a marshmallow over a campfire or grill until golden brown and gooey.
2. **Assemble the S’more:** Place a Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg on a graham cracker. Top with the toasted marshmallow and another graham cracker.
3. **Enjoy:** Gently press the graham crackers together and enjoy your delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg s’more!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Graham Crackers:** Use chocolate graham crackers for an extra chocolatey s’more.
* **Peanut Butter Graham Crackers:** Use peanut butter graham crackers to enhance the peanut butter flavor.
* **Different Marshmallow Flavors:** Experiment with different marshmallow flavors, such as chocolate or vanilla.
* **Add Chocolate Sauce:** Drizzle chocolate sauce over the marshmallow before adding the top graham cracker.
* **Grilled S’mores:** Wrap the assembled s’more in foil and grill it for a few minutes until the chocolate and marshmallow are melted and gooey.
Recipe 10: No-Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Egg Cheesecake Bars
These no-bake cheesecake bars are rich, creamy, and packed with peanut butter flavor. They are surprisingly easy to make and require no oven time. Perfect for hot weather or when you just don’t feel like baking!
**Ingredients:**
**For the Crust:**
* 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter, melted
**For the Filling:**
* 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
* 1 cup powdered sugar
* 1 cup peanut butter
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 12 Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs, unwrapped and chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
2. **Make the Filling:** In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
3. **Fold in Reese’s Eggs:** Fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs.
4. **Pour Filling over Crust:** Pour the filling over the crust and spread evenly.
5. **Chill:** Cover the baking dish and chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
6. **Cut into Bars:** Cut into bars and serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Crust:** Use Oreo crumbs instead of graham cracker crumbs for a chocolate crust.
* **Peanut Butter Cup Crust:** Use crushed peanut butter cups mixed with melted butter for an even more intense peanut butter crust.
* **Chocolate Ganache Topping:** Top the cheesecake bars with a chocolate ganache for an extra decadent treat.
* **Peanut Butter Swirls:** Swirl melted peanut butter into the filling before chilling.
* **Add Chocolate Chips:** Fold in chocolate chips into the filling for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs are more than just a seasonal candy; they are a versatile ingredient that can elevate your desserts, snacks, and even breakfast. With the convenience of direct shipping, you can easily stock up on these peanut butter treasures and experiment with these delicious recipes. So, go ahead, order your direct-shipped Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs and unleash your culinary creativity! From brownies and cookies to milkshakes and parfaits, the possibilities are endless. Happy baking (and cooking)!