There’s something irresistible about the classic combination of chocolate and cream, and Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies capture that magic perfectly. These cookies bring together the rich flavor of Hershey’s white chocolate with crunchy cookie bits for a delightful treat that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet snack, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
To create our delicious Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies, we gather a mix of dry, wet, and special ingredients that bring the iconic flavor and texture to every bite. Let’s break down what we need for this irresistible treat.
Dry Ingredients
The dry ingredients provide the structure and blend essential flavors for our cookies.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, sifted for lightness
- 1 teaspoon baking soda, to help the cookies rise evenly
- ½ teaspoon salt, to balance sweetness
- 1 cup granulated sugar, for sweetness and crisp texture
- ½ cup packed brown sugar, adds moisture and depth
Wet Ingredients
Our wet ingredients combine to create a smooth, creamy dough base that holds the pieces together perfectly.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature for easy mixing
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature for optimal blending
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, enhances the overall flavor profile
Special Ingredients (Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces)
This is what makes our cookies truly stand out — the Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces. These chunks infuse the dough with the trademark creamy white chocolate and crunchy cookie bits.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces | 1 ½ cups | Roughly chopped for texture |
| Coarsely crushed Oreo cookies | ½ cup | Optional: for extra crunch |
“Incorporating Hershey’s Cookies and Cream pieces ensures every bite bursts with classic flavor.”
With these ingredients at hand, we have the perfect foundation to bake a batch of cookies that radiate nostalgia and satisfy any sweet craving.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies, having the right equipment on hand is essential. This ensures every step from mixing to baking is smooth, precise, and yields the best results. Below is a detailed list of the necessary tools and their purposes:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Separate bowls for dry and wet ingredients |
| Electric Mixer | Efficiently cream butter and sugars, mix dough |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurate measurement of dry and wet ingredients |
| Rubber Spatula | Scrape down bowl sides and fold in cookie pieces |
| Cookie Scoop | Ensure uniform cookie sizes for even baking |
| Baking Sheets | Hold cookie dough for baking |
| Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat | Prevent cookies from sticking and promote even baking |
| Cooling Rack | Cool cookies evenly without sogginess |
| Oven Thermometer | Confirm oven temperature for consistent baking |
We recommend using an electric mixer for creaming the unsalted butter with sugars thoroughly. This creates a light and fluffy base crucial for the right cookie texture. A cookie scoop is equally important to keep cookie sizes consistent. This not only improves the presentation but also ensures cookies bake evenly without some burning while others remain undercooked.
Using parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on the baking sheets prevents cookies from sticking and promotes ideal baking conditions. Finally, having a cooling rack allows the cookies to cool completely, preserving their crispy exterior and soft interior.
By gathering and utilizing these tools, we set ourselves up for baking success with every batch of Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies.
Prep Work
Before diving into mixing our dough, let’s focus on the crucial Prep Work that ensures every batch of Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies turns out perfectly.
Preparing the Cookies and Cream Pieces
We start by handling the star component: the Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces. Gently break or chop the pieces into roughly ½-inch chunks if they are too large. This ensures the creamy white chocolate blends seamlessly with the crunchy cookie bits throughout each cookie.
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of crunch and nostalgia, consider adding coarsely crushed Oreo cookies alongside the Hershey’s pieces. This variation will deepen the cookies’ texture and flavor.
The table below describes the ideal sizes for both ingredients:
| Ingredient | Suggested Size | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Hershey’s Cookies and Cream | ½-inch chunks | Balanced cream and crunch |
| Optional Oreo Cookies | Coarsely crushed | Additional crunch and flavor |
Preheating the Oven
Proper oven temperature is vital for baking these cookies to golden perfection. We preheat our oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Use an oven thermometer to check for accuracy if your oven tends to run hot or cold.
- Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even heat distribution.
“Preheating guarantees that the cookies bake evenly and develop their signature chewy center with crisp edges.”
Preparing the Baking Sheets
To prevent sticking and promote even baking, we prepare our baking sheets carefully:
- Line them with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. These ensure effortless cookie removal without breaking.
- Avoid greasing the pans as excess oil can cause cookies to spread too thin.
- Use a cookie scoop to place dough mounds evenly spaced about 2 inches apart, allowing for uniform baking and shape retention.
By organizing these steps in advance, we create the perfect foundation to bake Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies that are as delightful to look at as they are to taste.
Instructions
Follow these steps carefully to achieve perfectly chewy and flavorful Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies that boast the iconic crunch and creamy white chocolate taste.
Making the Dough
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, combine ½ cup unsalted butter (softened), ¾ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in two large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients separately: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt until evenly distributed.
Mixing Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet butter-sugar mixture while mixing on low speed.
- Mix just until the dough comes together; be careful not to overmix or the cookies will become dense.
- Use a rubber spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl ensuring all flour is fully incorporated into the dough.
Adding Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces
- Chop the Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces into roughly ½-inch chunks for even texture throughout the cookies.
- Fold in 1 cup of the chopped Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces gently into the dough using a spatula.
- For extra crunch and nostalgia, optionally fold in ½ cup coarsely crushed Oreo cookies at this stage.
- Use a cookie scoop to form dough balls and place them 2 inches apart on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the center remains soft.
- Remove from oven and transfer cookies to a cooling rack to cool completely before serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | ½ cup | Softened |
| Granulated Sugar | ¾ cup | — |
| Brown Sugar | ½ cup | Packed |
| Large Eggs | 2 | — |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 teaspoon | — |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 ¾ cups | — |
| Baking Soda | ½ teaspoon | — |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | — |
| Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces | 1 cup | Chopped, ½-inch chunks |
| Oreo Cookies (optional) | ½ cup | Coarsely crushed for crunch |
Directions for Baking
To bake the perfect Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies, precise portioning, baking time, and cooling are key. Let’s walk through these essential steps for a flawless batch every time.
Portioning the Dough
We start by ensuring uniform cookie sizes for consistent baking. Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion the dough into rounded balls about 1.5 tablespoons each. This size strikes the perfect balance between soft centers and crisp edges.
Once portioned, place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving at least 2 inches of space between each to allow for spreading. Remember:
| Action | Detail |
|---|---|
| Dough ball size | 1.5 tablespoons (approx. 1 inch diameter) |
| Spacing on baking sheet | 2 inches apart |
| Baking sheet preparation | Lined with parchment paper or silicone mats |
Avoid pressing down the dough balls to keep the texture light and chewy.
Baking Time and Temperature
Preheat the oven to a precise 350°F (177°C) as recommended. Baking at this temperature ensures an even bake with a soft center and slightly crisp edges.
Bake each batch of cookies for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are set and lightly golden, while the centers remain slightly soft. This slight underbaking guarantees chewy, tender cookies that set as they cool.
| Baking Temperature | Baking Time | Visual Cue |
|---|---|---|
| 350°F (177°C) | 10 to 12 minutes | Edges set, centers soft |
To maintain oven accuracy, consider using an oven thermometer. Rotate the baking sheets halfway through baking for even color and texture.
Cooling the Cookies
Once baked, transfer the cookies to a cooling rack immediately using a spatula. This prevents sogginess by allowing air to circulate around the cookies, preserving their texture.
Let cookies cool completely, about 10-15 minutes, before serving or storing. This time allows the Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces to firm up, delivering that signature crunchy and creamy bite we love.
In summary:
- Do not leave cookies on hot baking sheets, or they will continue cooking and become too crisp.
- Cooling on a rack keeps cookies perfectly chewy and deliciously textured.
With these baking directions, we can enjoy consistently scrumptious Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies that impress every time.
Tips for Best Results
To achieve the ultimate Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies experience, follow these key tips carefully:
1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure the unsalted butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth dough that creams properly, resulting in a tender yet chewy cookie texture.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars Thoroughly
Beat the butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air for a soft crumb while maintaining the cookie’s structure.
3. Measure Dry Ingredients Precisely
Use the spoon-and-level method for flour measurement to avoid packing. Accurate measurements of all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt create the right cookie structure and rise.
| Dry Ingredients | Measurement Tips |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Spoon into cup, level with knife |
| Baking soda | Measure exactly |
| Salt | Use precise pinch or spoon |
4. Fold in Hershey’s Pieces Gently
Add the chopped Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces and optional coarsely crushed Oreo cookies last to avoid breaking them too fine. This preserves their delightful crunch and creamy bursts.
5. Portion Dough Consistently
Use a 1.5-tablespoon cookie scoop for uniform-sized dough balls. This ensures even baking so each cookie has the perfect balance of crispy edges and soft centers.
6. Space Cookies Adequately on Baking Sheet
Place dough balls at least 2 inches apart on lined baking sheets to prevent spreading and merging. Proper spacing promotes even airflow and uniform cookie shapes.
7. Bake with Visual Cues, Not Just Time
While baking at 350°F (177°C) for 10-12 minutes is standard, watch for the edges to become set and lightly golden while the centers appear slightly soft. This subtle cue guarantees a chewy inside with a gentle crunch outside.
8. Cool Cookies Properly
Immediately transfer baked cookies to a cooling rack. This stops residual heat from overbaking and preserves the cookie’s texture. Allow cookies to cool completely for sturdy handling and serving.
Quick Reference: Baking and Portioning Details
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Oven temperature | 350°F (177°C) |
| Baking time | 10-12 minutes |
| Dough ball size | 1.5 tablespoons |
| Dough spacing on sheet | Minimum 2 inches apart |
| Cooling | Transfer to rack immediately |
“Consistent portioning and attentive baking transform each batch of Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies into a delectable, nostalgic treat.”
By applying these tips our batches will always deliver that signature creamy white chocolate flavor with the perfect cookie crunch.
Storage Instructions
To maintain the freshness and texture of our Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies, proper storage is essential. Follow these guidelines to enjoy each cookie at its best for days or even weeks.
Cool Completely Before Storing
Ensure the cookies are completely cooled on a rack before storage. Warm cookies release moisture, which can make them soggy when stored.
Room Temperature Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Place a sheet of parchment paper or wax paper between layers to prevent sticking.
- Cookies will stay fresh for up to 5 days when stored this way.
Refrigeration
- For longer keeping, store cookies in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Refrigeration extends freshness up to 2 weeks.
- Bring cookies to room temperature before serving for optimal taste and texture.
Freezing
We recommend freezing for extended storage without sacrificing quality:
- Arrange cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour.
- Transfer frozen cookies to a freezer-safe airtight container or resealable bag.
- Separate layers with parchment paper.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw frozen cookies, leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes or warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
| Storage Method | Container Type | Storage Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Airtight container | Up to 5 days | Use parchment between layers |
| Refrigeration | Airtight container | Up to 2 weeks | Bring to room temp before serving |
| Freezing | Airtight/freezer bag | Up to 3 months | Freeze individually before storing |
Pro Tip: Avoid storing cookies near strong odors as they can absorb unwanted flavors, diminishing the iconic Hershey’s Cookies and Cream taste.
By following these Storage Instructions, we guarantee our Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies remain just as delightful bite after bite.
Conclusion
Baking Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies is a rewarding experience that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can create batches that are consistently delicious and nostalgic.
By paying attention to details like portioning, baking time, and proper cooling, we ensure every cookie turns out perfectly chewy with just the right crunch. These cookies are not only a treat to enjoy fresh but also store well, making them great for sharing or savoring over time.
Let’s keep these tips in mind and enjoy the process of baking cookies that celebrate the classic taste of Hershey’s white chocolate and cookies in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies special?
Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Cookies combine creamy white chocolate with crunchy cookie bits, offering a nostalgic and satisfying treat perfect for any occasion.
What are the main ingredients needed for these cookies?
You’ll need dry ingredients like flour, baking soda, salt, granulated and brown sugar; wet ingredients such as butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; plus Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces for the signature flavor.
Can I add anything extra to the cookies?
Yes, coarsely crushed Oreo cookies can be added for extra crunch and classic flavor.
What equipment is required to bake these cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a rubber spatula, cookie scoop, baking sheets, parchment paper or silicone mats, cooling rack, and an oven thermometer.
How do I prepare the Hershey’s Cookies and Cream Pieces for baking?
Chop or break them into roughly ½-inch chunks to ensure even distribution and consistent texture in your cookies.
What oven temperature should I use?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and position the rack in the center for even baking.
How long should I bake the cookies?
Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set and lightly golden, while the centers remain soft.
How important is spacing the dough on the baking sheet?
Very important — space dough balls at least 2 inches apart to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
What’s the best way to cool the cookies?
Transfer them immediately to a cooling rack to maintain texture and let cool completely before serving or storing.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, refrigerate up to 2 weeks, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Any tips for perfect cookies every time?
Use room temperature ingredients, cream butter and sugars thoroughly, measure precisely, avoid overmixing, portion dough evenly, and use visual baking cues.