Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars Recipe
If you’re a fan of chocolate, peanut butter, and pure dessert bliss, then these Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars might just become your new favorite treat. They’re wonderfully thick, soft, and loaded with gooey chocolate chips and colorful Reese’s Pieces that bring a fun, irresistible twist. The best part? You only need a handful of basic ingredients and just about half an hour to whip up a batch of these bars, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings, after-school snacks, or whenever you’re craving something sweet, comforting, and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s so great about Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars is how they rely on everyday staples that, when combined, turn into something magical. Each ingredient brings its own unique charm—think richness from butter, decadent chocolate, and that legendary peanut butter pop from Reese’s Pieces. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Yellow cake mix: The key to a soft, buttery base with subtle vanilla flavor, making everything extra easy and delicious.
- Melted butter (1 stick): Adds moisture and a rich taste while helping bind the dough together beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: Just a splash deepens the flavor, amplifying every bite with a hint of warmth and sweetness.
- Eggs: Help create structure so the bars stay satisfyingly chewy and never dry out.
- Chocolate chips: For classic pockets of melty chocolate in every bite—choose semi-sweet, milk, or even a mix!
- Reese’s Pieces candy: The real stars here, delivering peanut butter crunch, cheerful color, and a nostalgic flair.
How to Make Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), which gets everything hot and ready for baking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan—either with butter, nonstick spray, or even a parchment paper lining if you want effortless removal later on.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, pour in your yellow cake mix, then add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and eggs. Stir it all together until well-combined and a thick, sticky batter forms. Now fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they’re evenly scattered throughout the dough. The aroma as you stir everything up is an instant mood booster!
Step 3: Press and Top
Take that glorious batter and press it evenly into your prepared pan. It helps to use the back of a spatula or your hands (lightly greased, if you’re feeling adventurous) to spread it all the way to the edges. Then, sprinkle the entire surface with Reese’s Pieces candy, pressing them down just a bit so they nestle gently into the dough. They’ll bake into lovely, colorful tops that everyone will want to claim as theirs.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges are a gorgeous golden brown and the center has set but is still slightly soft. Don’t overbake—these bars are best a little gooey in the middle!
Step 5: Cool and Slice
Once your Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are done, let them cool in the pan so they can firm up a bit. As tempting as it is to dig in right away, patience pays off here! When they’re cool, cut into bars of whatever size suits your mood or occasion. Now try to resist eating more than one—they’re truly addictive!
How to Serve Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars
Garnishes
These bars look stunning as-is since the Reese’s Pieces provide pops of color, but for extra flair, add a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted chocolate on top. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a swirl of whipped cream makes each bar extra indulgent, perfect for special occasions or parties.
Side Dishes
Pair your Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars with a tall glass of cold milk for a classic combo. They’re also wonderful alongside hot coffee or even a creamy peanut butter milkshake for those days when you’re feeling extra decadent. For a lighter contrast, add fresh fruit like strawberries or sliced bananas to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these bars on a colorful platter for birthday parties, or wrap individual bars in parchment paper and tuck them into lunchboxes for a delightful midday surprise. For gifting, pile them high in a cookie tin with a little tissue paper—they make a thoughtful, homemade treat for teachers, friends, or anyone who could use a sweet pick-me-up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for up to four days, though in most households, they barely last that long! If you prefer them extra chewy and fudgy, placing a slice of bread inside the container can help maintain their texture.
Freezing
These bars freeze beautifully. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to three months—just bring them to room temperature before enjoying, or heat briefly for that freshly baked taste.
Reheating
If you love your Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars a little warm and gooey, pop one in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The chocolate chips melt just slightly and the edges get tender all over again—a quick trick for a fresh-from-the-oven effect.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix gives a classic, buttery taste, feel free to experiment with white or even chocolate cake mix for a different flavor profile. Just keep an eye on the bake time, as some mixes may behave a bit differently.
Do I have to use a 9×13-inch pan?
If you want thicker bars, a slightly smaller pan like 9×9 inches works—just tack on a few extra minutes to the baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick in the center.
Can I double the chocolate chips or Reese’s Pieces?
Go right ahead! If you like even more chocolate and peanut butter crunch in your Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars, doubling the mix-ins will make them even more decadent. Just be sure not to overload, or the bars may not set as well.
Are these safe for peanut allergies?
Since Reese’s Pieces contain peanut butter, these bars are definitely not safe for anyone with a peanut allergy. If you need a nut-free version, swap out the Reese’s Pieces for plain candy-coated chocolates and make sure your cake mix and chocolate chips are allergy-safe.
Can I make the dough ahead and bake later?
Yes! You can prepare the batter, press it into the pan, cover it well, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, simply top with Reese’s Pieces and bake as directed (you might need a couple of extra minutes in the oven if baking straight from the fridge).
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a chocolate lover, a peanut butter fanatic, or just want a truly fun and easy dessert recipe, these Reese’s Pieces Chocolate Chip Cookie Bars are guaranteed to win rave reviews. Give them a try—you might just find yourself making them on repeat for every occasion!
