Beyond the Cup: Creative Recipes Featuring the New Reese’s Shapes
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are a timeless classic, an iconic treat that has delighted generations. But Reese’s innovation never stops! They’re constantly introducing new flavors, sizes, and even *shapes* to keep things interesting. And that’s where we come in. The latest Reese’s shapes – think trees for Christmas, hearts for Valentine’s Day, eggs for Easter, pumpkins for Halloween, and even stars and footballs – aren’t just for snacking; they’re an invitation to get creative in the kitchen. This article explores a range of delicious and exciting recipes that leverage the unique appeal of these shaped Reese’s, turning simple treats into unforgettable culinary experiences.
## Why Shaped Reese’s Are a Game Changer
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s appreciate why these shaped candies are more than just a novelty. Their distinct forms add a visual element to your desserts and snacks that traditional cups simply can’t match. Imagine a Halloween dessert table adorned with pumpkin-shaped Reese’s in brownies, or a Christmas platter featuring tree-shaped Reese’s atop cupcakes. These shapes instantly elevate the presentation and make your creations more festive and appealing. Moreover, the varying sizes and thicknesses of these shapes can subtly alter the texture and peanut butter-to-chocolate ratio in each bite, offering a slightly different sensory experience.
## Recipe 1: Reese’s Stuffed Chocolate Chip Cookies
This recipe takes the classic chocolate chip cookie and elevates it to new heights by stuffing it with a whole Reese’s shape. The result is a gooey, peanut-buttery surprise in every bite.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* ¾ cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups chocolate chips (milk, semi-sweet, or dark, your choice!)
* 24 Reese’s shapes (any shape will work, but holiday-themed ones add a nice touch)
**Instructions:**
1. **Cream the Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Ensure the butter is properly softened, but not melted, for the best results.
2. **Incorporate the Wet Ingredients:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
3. **Combine the Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking ensures the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
4. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a less tender cookie.
5. **Stir in Chocolate Chips:** Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the dough. Use a spatula to gently fold them in to avoid overmixing.
6. **Chill the Dough (Important!):** Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking and helps to develop the flavors.
7. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
8. **Assemble the Cookies:** Scoop out a generous tablespoon of cookie dough. Flatten it slightly in your palm. Place a Reese’s shape in the center of the flattened dough. Scoop another tablespoon of dough and flatten it. Place it on top of the Reese’s, completely encasing the candy. Gently press the edges together to seal the cookie. Alternatively, divide the dough in half, flatten each half, place the Reese’s on one half, and top with the other half. Gently mold the dough around the Reese’s to completely cover it.
9. **Bake the Cookies:** Place the stuffed cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. The baking time may vary depending on your oven.
10. **Cool and Enjoy:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these gooey, peanut-buttery delights!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use different types of chocolate chips:** Experiment with milk chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips to customize the flavor.
* **Add nuts:** Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the cookie dough for added texture and flavor.
* **Sprinkle with sea salt:** A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the baked cookies enhances the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
* **Use different extracts:** Try adding almond extract or peppermint extract for a unique flavor twist, especially around the holidays.
* **Make them gluten-free:** Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
## Recipe 2: Reese’s Peanut Butter Rice Krispie Treats
Take the classic Rice Krispie treat and give it a Reese’s-inspired makeover! This recipe is simple, quick, and perfect for a no-bake dessert.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal
* 10 ounces marshmallows
* ¼ cup butter
* ½ cup peanut butter
* 1 cup Reese’s shapes, coarsely chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt Butter and Marshmallows:** In a large saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Add the marshmallows and stir constantly until completely melted and smooth. Make sure to use low heat to prevent the marshmallows from burning.
2. **Stir in Peanut Butter:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the peanut butter until well combined. Mix until the peanut butter is fully incorporated into the melted marshmallow mixture.
3. **Add Rice Krispies and Reese’s:** Add the Rice Krispies cereal and chopped Reese’s shapes to the marshmallow mixture. Gently fold until the cereal and Reese’s are evenly coated. Be careful not to crush the Rice Krispies.
4. **Press into Pan:** Grease a 9×13 inch pan with butter or cooking spray. Press the mixture evenly into the prepared pan. You can use a piece of parchment paper or a spatula to help press the mixture down smoothly.
5. **Cool and Cut:** Let the Rice Krispie treats cool completely before cutting them into squares. This will help them hold their shape. Cooling usually takes about 30 minutes to an hour.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add a chocolate drizzle:** Melt chocolate chips and drizzle them over the cooled Rice Krispie treats for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
* **Use different types of peanut butter:** Experiment with creamy or crunchy peanut butter for different textures.
* **Add pretzels:** Add crushed pretzels to the mixture for a salty-sweet combination.
* **Use different cereals:** Try using Cocoa Krispies or Fruity Pebbles for a colorful and flavorful twist.
* **Top with sprinkles:** Add sprinkles on top before the treats cool for added color and fun.
## Recipe 3: Reese’s Peanut Butter Bark
This recipe is incredibly easy to make and perfect for gifting. The combination of chocolate, peanut butter, and the festive shapes of Reese’s makes it a crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces chocolate (milk, semi-sweet, or dark), chopped
* 1 cup peanut butter chips
* 1 cup Reese’s shapes, coarsely chopped
* Optional: sprinkles, chopped nuts, sea salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Chocolate:** Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Be careful not to burn the chocolate.
2. **Spread Chocolate on Baking Sheet:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer. Aim for a thickness of about ¼ inch.
3. **Melt Peanut Butter Chips:** Melt the peanut butter chips in a separate bowl in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth. Again, avoid burning the peanut butter chips.
4. **Drizzle Peanut Butter Over Chocolate:** Drizzle the melted peanut butter over the chocolate layer in a decorative pattern. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for more precision.
5. **Sprinkle with Reese’s and Toppings:** Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s shapes and any other desired toppings (sprinkles, chopped nuts, sea salt) over the chocolate and peanut butter layers. Gently press the toppings into the chocolate to ensure they adhere.
6. **Chill and Break:** Refrigerate the bark for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm. Once firm, break the bark into pieces.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use different types of chocolate:** Combine milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and white chocolate for a visually appealing and flavorful bark.
* **Add different toppings:** Experiment with different toppings such as pretzels, dried fruit, coconut flakes, or mini marshmallows.
* **Use flavored peanut butter chips:** Try using chocolate peanut butter chips or white chocolate peanut butter chips for a different flavor profile.
* **Create a swirl effect:** Use a toothpick or knife to swirl the peanut butter into the chocolate for a marbled effect.
* **Make it festive:** Use holiday-themed sprinkles and Reese’s shapes for a festive treat.
## Recipe 4: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cupcakes
These cupcakes are a peanut butter lover’s dream! The moist chocolate cupcake, creamy peanut butter frosting, and a Reese’s shape on top make them irresistible.
**Ingredients (Cupcakes):**
* 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
* ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
* 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
* ¾ teaspoon salt
* 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
* ¾ cup buttermilk
* ¾ cup vegetable oil
* 2 large eggs
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
* ¾ cup hot coffee
**Ingredients (Frosting):**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3 cups powdered sugar
* 1 cup peanut butter
* ¼ cup milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Reese’s shapes, for topping
**Instructions (Cupcakes):**
1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. **Stir in Hot Coffee:** Gradually stir in the hot coffee until the batter is smooth. The coffee helps to enhance the chocolate flavor.
6. **Fill Cupcake Liners:** Fill the cupcake liners about ¾ full.
7. **Bake Cupcakes:** Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven.
8. **Cool Cupcakes:** Let the cupcakes cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Instructions (Frosting):**
1. **Cream Butter and Peanut Butter:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
2. **Gradually Add Powdered Sugar:** Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. **Add Milk and Vanilla:** Add the milk and vanilla extract and beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
4. **Frost Cupcakes:** Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them with the peanut butter frosting. You can use a piping bag or a spatula to frost the cupcakes.
5. **Top with Reese’s:** Top each cupcake with a Reese’s shape.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add chocolate chips to the batter:** Add chocolate chips to the cupcake batter for extra chocolate flavor.
* **Fill the cupcakes with peanut butter:** Core out the center of the cupcakes and fill them with peanut butter before frosting.
* **Use different extracts:** Try using almond extract or coffee extract for a unique flavor twist.
* **Make a chocolate ganache:** Drizzle the cupcakes with chocolate ganache before adding the Reese’s shape.
* **Add a peanut butter swirl:** Swirl peanut butter into the frosting for a marbled effect.
## Recipe 5: Reese’s Peanut Butter Smoothie
For a quick and satisfying treat, this smoothie is packed with peanut butter flavor and the goodness of Reese’s. It’s a perfect breakfast or snack option.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 frozen banana
* 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 2 tablespoons peanut butter
* ½ cup Reese’s shapes (any shape), roughly chopped
* 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for added sweetness)
* Ice cubes (optional, for a thicker smoothie)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the frozen banana, milk, peanut butter, chopped Reese’s shapes, and honey or maple syrup (if using).
2. **Blend Until Smooth:** Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. If you prefer a thicker smoothie, add a few ice cubes and blend again.
3. **Adjust Consistency:** If the smoothie is too thick, add a little more milk. If it’s too thin, add a few more ice cubes or a small piece of frozen banana.
4. **Pour and Enjoy:** Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add protein powder:** Add a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost of protein.
* **Use different types of milk:** Experiment with almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk for different flavors and textures.
* **Add spinach or kale:** Add a handful of spinach or kale for added nutrients. You won’t even taste it!
* **Add cocoa powder:** Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate peanut butter flavor.
* **Top with Reese’s pieces:** Garnish with Reese’s Pieces for added texture and flavor.
## Recipe 6: Reese’s Peanut Butter French Toast
Transform your breakfast with this decadent Reese’s-inspired French toast. It’s a delicious and indulgent way to start your day.
**Ingredients:**
* 6 slices of bread (challah or brioche work best)
* 2 large eggs
* ½ cup milk
* ¼ cup peanut butter
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* Butter, for cooking
* Reese’s shapes, for topping
* Maple syrup, for serving
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Custard:** In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, peanut butter, sugar, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. **Soak the Bread:** Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, making sure both sides are evenly coated. Let the bread soak for a few seconds on each side to absorb the custard.
3. **Cook the French Toast:** Melt butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook the soaked bread for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. **Serve and Top:** Serve the French toast immediately, topped with Reese’s shapes and maple syrup.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add cinnamon:** Add a pinch of cinnamon to the custard mixture for added warmth and flavor.
* **Use different types of bread:** Experiment with different types of bread such as cinnamon raisin bread or sourdough bread.
* **Add chocolate chips:** Add chocolate chips to the custard mixture or sprinkle them on top of the cooked French toast.
* **Make a peanut butter glaze:** Drizzle the French toast with a peanut butter glaze made from powdered sugar, peanut butter, and milk.
* **Serve with fresh fruit:** Serve the French toast with fresh berries or sliced bananas.
## Recipe 7: Reese’s Peanut Butter Popcorn
This sweet and salty popcorn is a perfect snack for movie night or any occasion. The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and popcorn is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 cups popped popcorn
* ¼ cup peanut butter
* ¼ cup butter
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons corn syrup
* ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup Reese’s shapes, coarsely chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Pop the Popcorn:** Pop the popcorn using your preferred method (air popper, stovetop, or microwave).
2. **Make the Peanut Butter Coating:** In a saucepan, melt the peanut butter and butter over low heat. Add the sugar and corn syrup and stir until smooth and combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Coat the Popcorn:** Pour the peanut butter coating over the popped popcorn and toss to coat evenly. Be gentle so that you don’t crush the popcorn.
4. **Add Reese’s:** Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s shapes over the coated popcorn and toss gently to distribute.
5. **Cool and Serve:** Spread the popcorn in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let it cool completely. Once cooled, break it into pieces and serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add pretzels:** Add crushed pretzels to the popcorn for a salty and crunchy texture.
* **Drizzle with chocolate:** Drizzle the popcorn with melted chocolate for an extra layer of chocolatey goodness.
* **Add nuts:** Add chopped peanuts, almonds, or cashews to the popcorn.
* **Use different extracts:** Try using almond extract or maple extract for a unique flavor twist.
* **Make it spicy:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the peanut butter coating for a spicy kick.
## Conclusion
The new Reese’s shapes offer a fun and delicious way to add a touch of creativity to your baking and snacking. These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment and create your own unique Reese’s-inspired masterpieces. Whether you’re making cookies, Rice Krispie treats, bark, cupcakes, smoothies, French toast, or popcorn, the possibilities are endless. So grab a bag of your favorite Reese’s shapes and get cooking! Enjoy the delightful combination of peanut butter and chocolate in these inventive and mouthwatering creations. Happy baking (and snacking)!