We’ve always been fans of the irresistible mix of creamy chocolate and crunchy cookies, and Hershey’s Cookies and Cream recipes capture that magic perfectly. Originating from the beloved American brand Hershey’s, these treats blend rich cocoa with buttery cookie pieces for a nostalgic delight that’s easy to whip up at home.
As food enthusiasts, we’re excited to guide you through simple variations that elevate everyday baking. Whether you’re craving a classic dessert or a fun twist, our recipes promise mouthwatering results every time.
Ingredients
In our exploration of Hershey’s Cookies and Cream recipes, we focus on the essential ingredients that bring together the creamy chocolate and crunchy cookie elements for irresistible homemade treats. Below, we list the ingredients for a classic Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookie recipe, ordered as they are used in preparation. This ensures a smooth baking process while highlighting key components for optimal flavor and texture.
For the Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Sifted to ensure a light, airy base for our dough.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Freshly measured to provide the perfect rise and crunch.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Added for enhanced flavor balance in the dry mix.
For the Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter – Softened at room temperature to cream easily and create a rich, velvety texture.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Whisked in to add sweetness and help with browning.
- ¾ cup brown sugar – Packed firmly for a deeper, caramel-like taste that complements the chocolate.
- 2 large eggs – Beaten lightly before adding for better incorporation and structure.
Add-Ins and Flavor Enhancers
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Pure variety for authentic, aromatic notes that tie the flavors together.
- 1 ½ cups Hershey’s Cookies and Cream candy bars – Chopped into ½-inch pieces to deliver the signature creamy chocolate and cookie crumbles; use 4 standard bars for the best distribution.
- 1 cup chocolate chips – Semi-sweet variety to amplify the chocolate intensity without overwhelming the cookies.
This selection of ingredients, sourced from everyday pantry staples and Hershey’s Cookies and Cream essentials, allows us to craft desserts that evoke nostalgia while being simple to prepare at home.
Required Tools and Equipment
To bring our Hershey’s Cookies and Cream recipes to life seamlessly after gathering the ingredients, we need a set of essential tools and equipment. These items ensure precision, efficiency, and professional results in our baking endeavors. Let’s break down the key tools you’ll need, organized by category for easy reference.
Basic Mixing Tools
- Mixing bowls: We recommend using two or three sturdy, medium-sized stainless steel or glass mixing bowls. These allow us to combine dry and wet ingredients separately before blending, preventing lumps and ensuring even distribution of flavors like the creamy chocolate from Hershey’s Cookies and Cream bars.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success, so opt for a set of standard dry and liquid measuring cups (1 cup, ½ cup, etc.) and spoons (1 tablespoon, 1 teaspoon, etc.). This helps us achieve the perfect balance in our cookie dough, avoiding overly dry or sticky results.
Baking Essentials
- Electric mixer or whisk: For incorporating butter and sugars smoothly, an electric hand mixer or stand mixer speeds up the process, but a sturdy wire whisk works for smaller batches. We find this tool indispensable for creating the light, airy texture that complements the crunchy cookies in Hershey’s Cookies and Cream treats.
- Baking sheets and parchment paper: Use one or two rimmed baking sheets lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This setup promotes even baking and easy cleanup, ensuring our cookies bake uniformly without sticking.
Oven and Accessories
- Oven: A standard conventional or convection oven preheated to the correct temperature (typically 350°F for cookies) is our go-to for achieving golden-brown perfection. Always use an oven thermometer to verify accuracy, as it directly impacts the texture of our Hershey’s Cookies and Cream delights.
- Spatula and cooling rack: A silicone spatula for scooping and dropping dough onto sheets, paired with a wire cooling rack, allows cookies to cool evenly and maintain their signature crunch. This step is key to preserving the nostalgic appeal of the treat.
By having these tools on hand, we can transition smoothly from mixing ingredients to baking our irresistible Hershey’s Cookies and Cream recipes with confidence and ease.
Instructions
We make baking Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookies straightforward and fun with these step-by-step directions. Follow along to transform your ingredients and tools into irresistible treats that capture creamy chocolate and crunchy cookie nostalgia.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we begin, gather and prep all ingredients in the order we’ll use them for smooth baking. Start by measuring 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt into a medium bowl – sift them together for even distribution and a fluffy texture. Next, chop 4 Hershey’s Cookies and Cream candy bars into small chunks for that signature crunch we love. Soften 1 cup of unsalted butter to room temperature until it’s pliable, then crack 2 large eggs and measure 1 cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract – these wet components will blend seamlessly for rich flavor.
Mix the Dough
Now we mix the dough to create a velvety base that highlights Hershey’s Cookies and Cream essence. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars using an electric mixer on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy – this step ensures a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each to incorporate air for a soft rise, then stir in the vanilla extract for a warm aroma. Gradually add the sifted flour mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined to avoid toughening the dough – the result should be a smooth, slightly sticky batter that promises a melt-in-your-mouth delight when baked.
Bake the Cookies
With the dough ready, we bake to achieve golden perfection and that irresistible crunch. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper for even heat distribution and easy cleanup. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow for spreading – each cookie will develop crispy edges and a chewy center. Press a few Hershey’s Cookies and Cream chunks into the tops for visual appeal and extra creaminess. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft – the aroma of chocolate and vanilla will fill your kitchen, signaling these treats are ready to cool.
Cool and Assemble
Finally, we cool and assemble to lock in the textures that make Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookies so nostalgic. Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies rest on them for 5 minutes to firm up – this prevents breakage and enhances their chewiness. Transfer them to a cooling rack using a spatula and allow them to cool completely for 15-20 minutes until they reach a crisp exterior with a gooey interior. For added flair, assemble by sandwiching two cookies with a dollop of whipped cream or melted candy bar pieces if desired – this step elevates the creamy chocolate experience for a decadent finish.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
As we wrap up our guide to baking irresistible Hershey’s Cookies and Cream recipes, let’s dive into practical strategies for preparing ahead and storing your treats. This ensures your cookies stay fresh, maintain their signature crispy edges and chewy centers, and are ready whenever cravings strike.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love making these Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookies in advance to save time without sacrificing flavor. Follow these steps for seamless preparation:
- Prepare the Dough: Mix your dough as outlined in our earlier steps, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. This prevents drying and keeps the chocolatey goodness intact.
- Refrigerate: Chill the dough in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This not only enhances the flavors but also makes the cookies easier to scoop and results in a better texture.
- Freeze for Longer Storage: For extended make-ahead options, shape the dough into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months, allowing you to bake fresh batches on demand.
- Baking from Frozen: When ready to bake, place frozen dough balls on your prepared baking sheet and add 1-2 extra minutes to the baking time. We recommend preheating your oven as usual to achieve that perfect golden finish.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is key to preserving the nostalgic appeal of your Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookies. Here’s how we handle it for maximum freshness:
- Room Temperature Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps them fresh for up to 5 days, maintaining their crunchy cookie pieces and creamy chocolate.
- Refrigeration for Extended Freshness: If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate cookies in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to 1 week—just let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to restore their ideal texture.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: For long-term storage, wrap cookies individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen cookies retain quality for up to 3 months, perfect for pulling out for spontaneous treats.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 5 days | Use an airtight container to prevent staleness. |
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 week | Avoid moisture buildup; reheat in oven at 300°F for 5 minutes if needed. |
| Freezing (Dough) | Up to 3 months | Thaw in fridge overnight before baking. |
| Freezing (Baked) | Up to 3 months | Thaw at room temperature for even defrosting. |
Conclusion
We’re thrilled to have guided you through these Hershey’s Cookies and Cream delights
They bring joy to every bake and spark endless creativity in your kitchen
Let’s savor the memories these treats create and keep experimenting with our favorite flavors
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookies so appealing?
Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookies combine creamy chocolate with crunchy cookie pieces for a nostalgic treat. They’re easy to make at home, offering simple variations that enhance everyday baking. This mix satisfies classic cravings while allowing for creative twists, making them perfect for all skill levels.
What ingredients are needed for a classic Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookie recipe?
You’ll need dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and salt, plus wet ones such as butter, sugars, eggs, and vanilla extract. Don’t forget the signature Hershey’s Cookies and Cream candy bars for that iconic flavor. This simple list ensures a delicious, nostalgic bake with minimal effort.
What tools are required to bake Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups, an electric mixer, baking sheets, parchment paper, a spatula, and a cooling rack. A properly preheated oven is key for achieving the perfect texture. These basics help create golden, chewy cookies without complicating the process.
How do I bake Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookies step by step?
Start by measuring and mixing dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, and salt, then prepare wet ones including butter, sugars, eggs, and chopped candy bars. Combine into a dough, shape into balls, and bake at the recommended temperature until golden with crispy edges. Cool on a rack and enjoy as is or with additions like whipped cream.
Can I prepare the dough for Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookies in advance?
Yes, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours or freeze shaped balls for up to three months. This make-ahead option lets flavors develop, making baking more convenient while keeping the cookies fresh and delicious when you’re ready to bake.
How should I store Hershey’s Cookies and Cream cookies to keep them fresh?
Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze individually for longer-term enjoyment. Proper storage maintains their chewy texture and nostalgic taste, ensuring they stay irresistible.