Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Lawsuit Recipes: Sweeten the News with Delicious Treats
The recent Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup lawsuit has certainly stirred up a lot of buzz, leaving many wondering about the specifics. While the legal details unfold, let’s focus on something universally enjoyable: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups themselves! Instead of dwelling on the lawsuit, let’s turn lemons into delicious lemonade (or, in this case, legal woes into peanut butter bliss) by exploring some fantastic recipes featuring this iconic candy. These recipes will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also provide a fun distraction from the news cycle. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, there’s something here for everyone. So, grab a bag of Reese’s (or two!), and let’s get cooking!
Understanding the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Lawsuit
Before we dive into the delectable recipes, let’s briefly touch upon the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup lawsuit. The lawsuit generally revolves around allegations of misleading packaging or product representation. Typically, these lawsuits claim that the actual product doesn’t quite match the images or expectations set by the packaging. While the specifics vary, they often center on the size, shape, or quantity of the candy compared to what’s advertised.
It’s important to remember that legal proceedings can be complex and take time to resolve. In the meantime, regardless of the outcome, the beloved combination of peanut butter and chocolate remains a timeless classic, and we can certainly appreciate it in a variety of creative ways.
Recipe 1: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Brownies
These brownies are fudgy, decadent, and packed with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup goodness. They’re relatively easy to make and are always a crowd-pleaser.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
* 1 cup granulated sugar
* 1 cup packed light brown sugar
* 4 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
* ¼ teaspoon salt
* 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (about 12-15 cups)
* Optional: Extra Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. **Melt the Butter:** In a large microwave-safe bowl or saucepan, melt the butter. Be careful not to burn it.
3. **Add Sugars:** Stir in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined. The mixture should be smooth.
4. **Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt.
6. **Combine Wet and Dry:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. **Add Reese’s:** Fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
8. **Bake:** Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly. If desired, press extra Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups into the top of the batter.
9. **Bake Time:** Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs attached. Don’t overbake!
10. **Cool and Cut:** Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares. They are best served slightly chilled or at room temperature.
**Tips and Variations:**
* For extra fudgy brownies, use melted chocolate in addition to cocoa powder.
* Add a swirl of peanut butter to the top of the batter before baking for a marbled effect.
* Use different types of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, such as miniatures or white chocolate cups.
* Sprinkle with sea salt after baking to enhance the flavors.
* Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra-special treat.
Recipe 2: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are a peanut butter lover’s dream. The addition of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups takes them to the next level.
**Ingredients:**
* ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* ½ cup creamy peanut butter
* ½ cup granulated sugar
* ½ cup packed light brown sugar
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
* ¾ teaspoon baking soda
* ½ teaspoon salt
* 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (about 12-15 cups)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Cream Butter and Peanut Butter:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and peanut butter until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Sugars:** Gradually beat in the granulated sugar and brown sugar until well combined.
4. **Incorporate Egg and Vanilla:** Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
5. **Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. **Combine Wet and Dry:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
7. **Add Reese’s:** Fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
8. **Scoop and Bake:** Drop by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet.
9. **Bake Time:** Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
10. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use crunchy peanut butter for added texture.
* Roll the cookie dough in granulated sugar before baking for a sparkly finish.
* Top the cookies with a whole Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup after baking while they are still warm.
* Drizzle with melted chocolate or peanut butter after cooling.
* Chill the cookie dough for 30 minutes before baking to prevent spreading.
Recipe 3: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Cheesecake Bars
These cheesecake bars are rich, creamy, and bursting with peanut butter flavor. They’re perfect for parties or potlucks.
**Ingredients (Crust):**
* 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
* 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
**Ingredients (Filling):**
* 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
* ¾ cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* ½ cup sour cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup creamy peanut butter
* 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (about 12-15 cups)
**Ingredients (Topping):**
* ½ cup sour cream
* ¼ cup peanut butter
* ½ cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (about 6-8 cups)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with foil, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. **Make the Crust:** In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. **Bake the Crust:** Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden.
4. **Make the Filling:** In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract.
5. **Add Peanut Butter and Reese’s:** Stir in the peanut butter and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
6. **Pour and Bake:** Pour the filling over the baked crust and spread evenly.
7. **Bake Time:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
8. **Make the Topping:** In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and peanut butter. Spread the mixture evenly over the baked cheesecake.
9. **Add Topping Reese’s:** Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups over the sour cream topping.
10. **Cool and Chill:** Let the cheesecake cool completely in the pan, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before cutting into bars.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use a food processor to crush the graham crackers for a finer crust.
* Add a layer of melted chocolate to the bottom of the crust before pouring in the filling.
* Swirl melted chocolate or peanut butter into the cheesecake filling for a marbled effect.
* Garnish with whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce before serving.
* For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese.
Recipe 4: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Milkshake
This milkshake is the perfect way to cool down on a hot day. It’s thick, creamy, and packed with Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 scoops vanilla ice cream
* ½ cup milk
* 4 Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
* Optional: Whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine the vanilla ice cream, milk, and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. **Pour and Serve:** Pour the milkshake into a glass.
4. **Top (Optional):** Top with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, if desired.
5. **Enjoy:** Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla for a richer flavor.
* Add a tablespoon of peanut butter to the milkshake for an extra peanut butter kick.
* Drizzle the inside of the glass with chocolate syrup before pouring in the milkshake.
* Rim the glass with crushed Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for a fun presentation.
* Add a shot of espresso for a mocha-peanut butter milkshake.
Recipe 5: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Bark
This bark is a simple and delicious treat that’s perfect for gifting or snacking. It’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces chocolate chips (milk, dark, or semi-sweet)
* 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (about 12-15 cups)
* Optional: Sprinkles, sea salt, chopped nuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt Chocolate:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
2. **Spread Chocolate:** Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread evenly into a thin layer.
3. **Add Toppings:** Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and any other desired toppings over the melted chocolate.
4. **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm.
5. **Break into Pieces:** Break the bark into pieces and store in an airtight container.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of chocolate for a layered effect.
* Add a swirl of peanut butter to the melted chocolate before adding the toppings.
* Sprinkle with sea salt to enhance the flavors.
* Add chopped nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, for added texture.
* Use different types of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, such as miniatures or white chocolate cups.
Recipe 6: No-Bake Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Energy Bites
These energy bites are a healthy and delicious snack that’s perfect for on-the-go. They’re packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup rolled oats
* ½ cup peanut butter
* ⅓ cup honey
* 2 tablespoons chia seeds
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (about 6-8 cups)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, chia seeds, and vanilla extract.
2. **Mix Well:** Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
3. **Add Reese’s:** Fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
4. **Roll into Balls:** Roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the energy bites to firm up.
6. **Enjoy:** Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Add protein powder for an extra boost of protein.
* Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.
* Add dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and chewiness.
* Roll the energy bites in shredded coconut or chopped nuts.
* Use sugar-free honey for a lower-sugar option.
Recipe 7: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Popcorn
This sweet and salty popcorn is a fun and easy snack that’s perfect for movie night. The addition of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups takes it to the next level.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 cups popped popcorn
* ½ cup melted butter
* ¼ cup granulated sugar
* ¼ cup peanut butter
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* ½ cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (about 6-8 cups)
**Instructions:**
1. **Pop the Popcorn:** Pop the popcorn using your preferred method (air-popped, stovetop, or microwave).
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a small saucepan, combine the melted butter, sugar, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. **Pour over Popcorn:** Pour the peanut butter mixture over the popped popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
4. **Add Reese’s:** Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups over the popcorn.
5. **Cool:** Let the popcorn cool completely before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use kettle corn instead of plain popcorn for a sweeter snack.
* Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors.
* Drizzle with melted chocolate after the popcorn has cooled.
* Add chopped nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, for added texture.
* Use different types of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, such as miniatures or white chocolate cups.
Recipe 8: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Stuffed Pretzels
These stuffed pretzels are a salty and sweet treat that’s perfect for parties or game day. They’re easy to make and are always a hit.
**Ingredients:**
* Large pretzel snaps
* Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
* Optional: Melted chocolate, sprinkles
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven:** Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C).
2. **Arrange Pretzels:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the pretzel snaps on the baking sheet.
3. **Top with Reese’s:** Place a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup on top of each pretzel snap.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 4-6 minutes, or until the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups are slightly softened but not melted.
5. **Press and Cool:** Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately press another pretzel snap on top of each Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup.
6. **Cool Completely:** Let the pretzels cool completely before serving.
7. **Drizzle (Optional):** Drizzle with melted chocolate and sprinkle with sprinkles, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use different types of chocolate for drizzling.
* Sprinkle with sea salt to enhance the flavors.
* Add chopped nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, for added texture.
* Use different types of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, such as miniatures or white chocolate cups.
* Use Rolos instead of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups for a caramel-chocolate variation.
Recipe 9: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Fudge
This fudge is rich, creamy, and packed with peanut butter flavor. It’s perfect for gifting or indulging in a sweet treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 3 cups granulated sugar
* ¾ cup butter
* ⅔ cup evaporated milk
* 1 (12 ounce) package semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow creme
* 1 cup peanut butter
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (about 12-15 cups)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Pan:** Line a 9×13 inch baking pan with foil.
2. **Combine Sugar, Butter, and Milk:** In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
3. **Boil and Stir:** Continue boiling for 5 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
4. **Remove from Heat:** Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips, marshmallow creme, peanut butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. **Add Reese’s:** Fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
6. **Pour into Pan:** Pour the fudge into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
7. **Chill:** Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.
8. **Cut into Squares:** Cut the fudge into squares and store in an airtight container.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
* Add a swirl of peanut butter to the fudge before chilling.
* Sprinkle with sea salt to enhance the flavors.
* Add chopped nuts, such as peanuts or almonds, for added texture.
* Use different types of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, such as miniatures or white chocolate cups.
Recipe 10: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup Overnight Oats
These overnight oats are a quick, easy and healthy breakfast option. Prepare them the night before and enjoy a delicious Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup flavor in the morning!
**Ingredients:**
* 1/2 cup rolled oats
* 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
* 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess and protein)
* 1 tablespoon chia seeds
* 1 tablespoon peanut butter
* 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
* 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 1/4 cup chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a jar or container with a lid, combine the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt (if using), chia seeds, peanut butter, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
2. **Add Reese’s:** Fold in the chopped Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.
3. **Refrigerate:** Seal the jar or container and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 4 hours. This allows the oats to soften and the flavors to meld together.
4. **Enjoy!** In the morning, give the oats a stir. If they seem too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy cold directly from the jar or container.
**Tips and Variations:**
* Adjust sweetness: Taste the oats in the morning and add more maple syrup or honey if needed.
* Add more protein: Mix in a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost.
* Make it vegan: Use non-dairy milk and maple syrup instead of honey.
* Top it off: Add extra chopped Reese’s, a drizzle of peanut butter, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder before serving.
Conclusion
Whether you’re following the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup lawsuit or simply looking for delicious ways to enjoy this classic candy, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. From fudgy brownies to creamy milkshakes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, get creative in the kitchen and let the peanut butter and chocolate magic happen!
While legal matters may be complex, the simple joy of a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup remains a delightful constant. These recipes offer a sweet escape and a reminder that even amidst challenging news, there’s always room for a little indulgence. So, go ahead, bake a batch of brownies, whip up a milkshake, or create a bark masterpiece. After all, a little peanut butter and chocolate can go a long way!