Unlocking Culinary Delights: Irresistible Recipes Featuring the New Reese’s Big Cup Flavor
Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups have held a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of candy lovers for generations. The iconic combination of smooth peanut butter and rich chocolate is a timeless classic. When Reese’s introduces a new flavor to their Big Cup lineup, it’s an event that sends ripples of excitement through the culinary world. Forget just eating them straight from the wrapper; let’s unleash the potential of the new Reese’s Big Cup flavor in a series of delectable recipes that will transform your kitchen into a peanut butter paradise.
Before we dive into specific recipes, let’s address the elephant in the room: What is the *new* Reese’s Big Cup flavor? Because Reese’s frequently releases limited editions and seasonal varieties, it’s critical to know exactly what taste profile we’re working with. Is it a cup infused with pretzels, potato chips, caramel, or a completely new twist? For the purpose of these recipes, we will operate under the premise that the new flavor is **Reese’s Big Cup with Caramel**. This combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and gooey caramel offers a fantastic base for creating sweet and savory culinary masterpieces.
## Why Cook with Reese’s?
Beyond the sheer joy of incorporating everyone’s favorite candy into new dishes, using Reese’s Big Cups in recipes offers several distinct advantages:
* **Unique Flavor Profile:** The combination of peanut butter, chocolate, and caramel (in our assumed new flavor case) provides a complex and satisfying flavor profile that is difficult to replicate. The salty peanut butter balances the sweetness of the chocolate and caramel, creating a harmonious blend that appeals to a wide range of palates.
* **Texture:** Reese’s Big Cups offer a delightful textural contrast. The smooth, creamy peanut butter filling, the solid chocolate shell, and the gooey caramel create a multi-sensory experience. This texture can be incorporated into your dishes, adding depth and interest.
* **Convenience:** Reese’s Big Cups are readily available in most grocery stores, making them a convenient ingredient to work with. They also require minimal preparation; simply unwrap and chop or melt as needed.
* **Nostalgia and Comfort:** For many, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups evoke feelings of nostalgia and comfort. Incorporating them into your recipes can add a touch of warmth and familiarity to your dishes.
## Recipe Ideas: The Caramel-Reese’s Revolution
Here are some innovative recipes that showcase the versatility of the hypothetical new Reese’s Big Cup with Caramel flavor:
### 1. Reese’s Caramel Stuffed Brownies
These brownies take the classic chocolate dessert to a whole new level. The combination of rich, fudgy brownie batter and the surprise of a gooey, caramel-infused Reese’s Big Cup center is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 box (18.3 ounces) brownie mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
* 12 Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel, unwrapped
* Optional: Chocolate chips, chopped nuts for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Brownie Batter:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the brownie batter according to the instructions on the box.
2. **Fill the Brownie Pan:** Pour half of the brownie batter into a greased and floured 9×13 inch baking pan. Make sure it’s evenly spread.
3. **Add the Reese’s Big Cups:** Arrange the unwrapped Reese’s Big Cups evenly over the brownie batter, pressing them down slightly. You should have a grid of cups, leaving some space between them for the brownie to rise.
4. **Cover with Remaining Batter:** Carefully pour the remaining brownie batter over the Reese’s Big Cups, spreading it evenly to cover them completely. Don’t worry if the cups aren’t perfectly hidden; they’ll melt and blend into the brownie as it bakes.
5. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Sprinkle chocolate chips or chopped nuts over the top of the brownie batter for added texture and flavor.
6. **Bake:** Bake for the time recommended on the brownie mix box, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with moist crumbs (avoiding the candy cup centers when testing).
7. **Cool and Cut:** Let the brownies cool completely in the pan before cutting them into squares. This will allow the Reese’s Big Cups to set slightly and prevent them from making the brownies too gooey to handle. A warm knife will also make cleaner cuts.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Double Chocolate:** Use a double chocolate brownie mix for an even richer chocolate experience.
* **Peanut Butter Swirl:** Swirl a spoonful of peanut butter into the brownie batter before baking for an extra peanut butter kick.
* **Salted Caramel:** Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the brownies after baking to enhance the caramel flavor.
* **Ice Cream Pairing:** Serve warm brownies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
### 2. Reese’s Caramel Peanut Butter Blossoms
This recipe is a twist on the classic peanut butter blossom cookies, featuring the delightful addition of the new Reese’s Big Cup with Caramel flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter
* 2 large eggs
* 2 tablespoons milk
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 24 Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel, unwrapped
* Granulated sugar for rolling
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prep:** Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Peanut Butter, Eggs, Milk, and Vanilla:** Beat in peanut butter until well combined. Beat in eggs one at a time, then stir in milk and vanilla extract.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Shape the Dough:** Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
7. **Bake:** Place the sugar-coated balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
8. **Add Reese’s Big Cups:** Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press one unwrapped Reese’s Big Cup with Caramel into the center of each cookie. The heat from the cookie will soften the candy slightly.
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:** If the dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling it into balls.
* **Different Sugar:** Use colored sugar or sprinkles for a festive touch.
* **Peanut Butter Chips:** Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter chips to the dough for even more peanut butter flavor.
* **Salted Peanut Butter:** Use salted peanut butter to balance the sweetness of the cookies.
### 3. Reese’s Caramel Peanut Butter Cup Ice Cream
This homemade ice cream is a peanut butter lover’s dream. The creamy peanut butter base is studded with chunks of the new Reese’s Big Cup with Caramel, creating a truly indulgent treat.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups heavy cream
* 1 cup whole milk
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 12 Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel, chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Cream, Milk, Sugar, and Salt:** In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar is dissolved. Do not boil.
2. **Add Peanut Butter:** Remove from heat and whisk in peanut butter until smooth.
3. **Stir in Vanilla:** Stir in vanilla extract.
4. **Chill the Mixture:** Pour the mixture into a bowl, cover with plastic wrap (pressing the wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a skin from forming), and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
5. **Churn the Ice Cream:** Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. **Add Reese’s Big Cups:** During the last few minutes of churning, add the chopped Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel. The ice cream should be soft-serve consistency.
7. **Harden the Ice Cream:** Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours to harden completely.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Roasted Peanut Flavor:** Toast the peanut butter in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring constantly, to enhance its flavor. Let it cool slightly before adding it to the ice cream mixture.
* **Chocolate Swirl:** Drizzle melted chocolate into the ice cream during the last few minutes of churning for a chocolate swirl effect.
* **Peanut Butter Cups:** Use other varieties of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups (such as the original or dark chocolate) in addition to the new flavor for a variety of flavors and textures.
* **Serve with Toppings:** Serve the ice cream with peanut butter sauce, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, and chopped nuts.
### 4. Reese’s Caramel Peanut Butter Bark
This easy-to-make bark is a perfect treat for parties, holidays, or just a simple sweet snack. It’s customizable and incredibly addictive.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
* 6 ounces white chocolate chips
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter
* 12 Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel, chopped
* Optional: Sprinkles, chopped pretzels, sea salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt Semi-Sweet Chocolate:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave (in 30-second intervals, stirring in between) until smooth.
2. **Spread Chocolate:** Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer.
3. **Melt White Chocolate and Peanut Butter:** In a separate bowl, melt the white chocolate chips and peanut butter together in a double boiler or microwave (in 30-second intervals, stirring in between) until smooth.
4. **Drizzle Peanut Butter Mixture:** Drizzle the peanut butter mixture over the semi-sweet chocolate layer. Use a knife or toothpick to swirl the two layers together.
5. **Add Reese’s Big Cups and Toppings:** Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel and any other desired toppings (such as sprinkles, chopped pretzels, or sea salt) over the bark.
6. **Chill:** Refrigerate the bark for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
7. **Break into Pieces:** Break the bark into pieces and store in an airtight container.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Dark Chocolate:** Use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
* **Peanut Butter Swirl:** Use different types of peanut butter, such as chunky or natural, for a more textured swirl.
* **Pretzel Pieces:** Add broken pretzel pieces to the bark for a salty and crunchy element.
* **Colorful Sprinkles:** Use festive sprinkles to match the occasion.
### 5. Reese’s Caramel Peanut Butter Cup Milkshake
This milkshake is a quick and easy way to satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s a creamy, peanut butter-y, chocolate-y delight that’s perfect for a hot day.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups vanilla ice cream
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
* 4 Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel, chopped
* Optional: Whipped cream, chocolate syrup, chopped Reese’s Big Cups for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a blender, combine vanilla ice cream, milk, peanut butter, and chopped Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel.
2. **Blend:** Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
3. **Pour and Top:** Pour the milkshake into a glass. Top with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, and chopped Reese’s Big Cups, if desired.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Chocolate Ice Cream:** Use chocolate ice cream instead of vanilla ice cream for a richer chocolate flavor.
* **Peanut Butter Powder:** Add a tablespoon of peanut butter powder to the milkshake for an extra peanut butter boost.
* **Frozen Banana:** Add half of a frozen banana to the milkshake for added creaminess and sweetness.
* **Caramel Sauce:** Drizzle caramel sauce inside the glass before pouring in the milkshake for a decorative touch.
### 6. Reese’s Caramel and Peanut Butter Pancakes
These pancakes are a decadent treat that’s perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. They’re fluffy, peanut butter-y, and loaded with chopped Reese’s.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 tablespoons sugar
* 2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 egg
* 1 cup milk
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
* 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
* 6 Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel, chopped
* Optional: Maple syrup, whipped cream, peanut butter for topping
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, and melted butter. Stir in peanut butter until smooth.
3. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:** Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. **Stir in Reese’s Big Cups:** Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel.
5. **Cook Pancakes:** Heat a lightly oiled griddle or frying pan over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the hot griddle for each pancake.
6. **Flip and Cook:** Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. **Serve:** Serve immediately with maple syrup, whipped cream, and peanut butter, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Buttermilk Pancakes:** Substitute buttermilk for milk for tangier and fluffier pancakes.
* **Whole Wheat Flour:** Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
* **Chocolate Chips:** Add chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolate flavor.
* **Peanut Butter Drizzle:** Drizzle melted peanut butter over the pancakes before serving.
### 7. Reese’s Caramel Peanut Butter Parfaits
These parfaits are a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for entertaining. They’re layered with creamy yogurt, crunchy granola, and chopped Reese’s Big Cups.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups vanilla yogurt
* 1 cup granola
* 6 Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel, chopped
* Optional: Fresh berries, whipped cream
**Instructions:**
1. **Layer Ingredients:** In individual glasses or parfait dishes, layer yogurt, granola, and chopped Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel.
2. **Repeat Layers:** Repeat the layers until the glasses are full.
3. **Top and Serve:** Top with fresh berries and whipped cream, if desired.
4. **Serve Immediately:** Serve immediately or chill for later.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Greek Yogurt:** Use Greek yogurt for a thicker and tangier parfait.
* **Different Granola:** Use different flavors of granola, such as chocolate or peanut butter.
* **Fruit Variations:** Add different fruits, such as bananas, strawberries, or raspberries.
* **Chocolate Shavings:** Top with chocolate shavings for a more elegant presentation.
### 8. Savory Application: Reese’s Caramel Peanut Butter Chicken Satay Skewers
Who said Reese’s were just for desserts? This unexpected twist brings the peanut butter cup to a savory dish, creating a delightful fusion of sweet and salty flavors.
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 1/4 cup soy sauce
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 clove garlic, minced
* 1/2 inch ginger, grated
* 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
* 2 Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel, finely chopped and melted slightly (for incorporation into the sauce)
* Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate the Chicken:** In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
2. **Prepare the Satay Sauce:** In a separate bowl, combine peanut butter and melted, chopped Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel. Adjust the consistency with a little water or soy sauce if needed to create a smooth, pourable sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired (you may want a dash of sriracha for a slight kick).
3. **Thread Skewers:** Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked bamboo skewers.
4. **Grill or Bake:** Grill the skewers over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. **Serve:** Serve the chicken satay skewers with the prepared peanut butter and Reese’s Caramel dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the marinade or satay sauce for a spicy kick.
* **Vegetable Skewers:** Add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini to the skewers for a more balanced meal.
* **Coconut Milk:** Substitute coconut milk for some of the water in the satay sauce for a richer flavor.
* **Lime Juice:** Add a squeeze of lime juice to the satay sauce for a brighter flavor.
### 9. Reese’s Caramel Peanut Butter Cup Popcorn
Movie night will never be the same! This sweet and salty popcorn recipe is a perfect blend of textures and flavors.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 cups popped popcorn
* 1/4 cup butter
* 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons corn syrup
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 6 Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel, chopped
* Optional: Sprinkles, chopped peanuts
**Instructions:**
1. **Pop the Popcorn:** Pop the popcorn and place it in a large bowl.
2. **Make the Caramel Sauce:** In a saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. **Pour and Mix:** Pour the caramel sauce over the popcorn and toss to coat evenly.
4. **Add Reese’s Big Cups:** Sprinkle the chopped Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel over the popcorn and toss gently to distribute.
5. **Spread and Cool:** Spread the popcorn on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Sprinkle with sprinkles and chopped peanuts, if desired. Let cool completely.
6. **Break and Serve:** Break the popcorn into pieces and serve.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Microwave Caramel:** Melt the butter, brown sugar, corn syrup, and salt in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
* **White Chocolate:** Drizzle melted white chocolate over the popcorn for an extra layer of sweetness.
* **Pretzel Pieces:** Add broken pretzel pieces to the popcorn for a salty and crunchy element.
* **Different Popcorn:** Use kettle corn for a sweeter and saltier base.
### 10. No-Bake Reese’s Caramel Peanut Butter 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, and they’re a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without derailing your diet.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup rolled oats
* 1/2 cup peanut butter
* 1/4 cup honey
* 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 4 Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel, chopped
* Optional: Chocolate chips, shredded coconut
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine rolled oats, peanut butter, honey, ground flaxseed, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
2. **Stir in Reese’s Big Cups:** Stir in the chopped Reese’s Big Cups with Caramel.
3. **Chill:** Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to firm up.
4. **Roll into Balls:** Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls.
5. **Add Toppings (Optional):** Roll the balls in chocolate chips or shredded coconut, if desired.
6. **Store:** Store the energy bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Protein Powder:** Add a scoop of protein powder to the mixture for an extra protein boost.
* **Chia Seeds:** Add chia seeds for added fiber and nutrients.
* **Dried Fruit:** Add dried cranberries, raisins, or apricots for added sweetness and texture.
* **Nut Butter:** Use different nut butters, such as almond butter or cashew butter.
## Conclusion
The arrival of a new Reese’s Big Cup flavor is more than just a candy release; it’s an invitation to explore new culinary horizons. These recipes offer a starting point for unleashing the potential of the iconic peanut butter and chocolate combination, especially when augmented with a flavor like Caramel. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adapt these recipes to your own tastes and preferences. The only limit is your imagination! So grab a few of the new Reese’s Big Cups, head into the kitchen, and let the culinary adventure begin. Remember to have fun and enjoy the delicious results!