Few treats capture the perfect balance of creamy sweetness and chocolate crunch like Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream. This iconic flavor has won hearts worldwide, and now we’re bringing it straight to your kitchen with our easy-to-make Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream cookie recipe.
Ingredients
To recreate the classic Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream cookie flavor in our homemade cookies, we carefully select a balance of dry, wet, and signature components. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and authentic taste that fans love.
Dry Ingredients
Our dry ingredients form the foundation of the cookie dough, ensuring the right structure and crumb.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed chocolate sandwich cookies (reserve some larger cookie chunks for texture)
Wet Ingredients
The wet ingredients blend moisture and richness, creating a chewy, soft cookie base.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Hershey’s Cookies N Cream Components
To capture the essence of Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream, we incorporate these signature items that bring the iconic creamy chocolate crunch.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream Bar | 6 oz, chopped | Melts into dough for creamy chunks |
| White chocolate chips | ½ cup | Adds sweet, smooth creaminess |
| Additional cookie chunks | ½ cup | Enhances cookie crunch and texture |
These combined ingredients create our decadent version of the Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream cookie, bursting with delicious creamy chocolate and cookie crunch in every bite.
Equipment Needed
To achieve perfect Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream Cookies every time, having the right equipment is essential. Below is a detailed list of tools that streamline the process and ensure consistency in texture and flavor.
- Mixing Bowls: Use at least two large bowls—one for wet ingredients and one for dry. Stainless steel or glass bowls work best for thorough mixing.
- Electric Mixer: A stand mixer or hand mixer helps us cream the butter and sugar efficiently, creating the ideal dough texture.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precise measurement of ingredients like flour, baking soda, and sugar is key to replicating the classic Cookies ‘n’ Cream flavor.
- Spatula: A silicone spatula assists in scraping down the sides of the bowl to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
- Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon: For uniform cookie sizes, a scoop or tablespoon helps portion the dough.
- Baking Sheets: Use flat, rimmed baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for even baking and easy cookie removal.
- Cooling Rack: After baking, transferring cookies to a wire cooling rack prevents sogginess and preserves crisp edges.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine wet and dry ingredients separately |
| Electric Mixer | Cream butter and sugar to proper texture |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Ensure accurate ingredient quantities |
| Silicone Spatula | Mix and scrape bowl sides smoothly |
| Cookie Scoop | Portion dough for consistent cookie size |
| Baking Sheets | Provide flat surface for even baking |
| Cooling Rack | Cool cookies evenly without moisture buildup |
Using this equipment guarantees the best results when crafting our Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream Cookie Recipe. Having each tool ready before starting helps us maintain a smooth and enjoyable baking flow.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to create the perfect Hershey’s Cookies N Cream Cookie dough and bake irresistible cookies bursting with creamy sweetness and chocolate crunch.
Preparing the Dough
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter (softened) and 1 cup of granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure full incorporation.
- Mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract for rich flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning agents.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Use a silicone spatula to fold the mixture gently but thoroughly, aiming for a smooth, uniform dough.
Incorporating Hershey’s Cookies N Cream
To capture the iconic Hershey’s Cookies N Cream flavor and texture:
- Chop 1 cup of Hershey’s Cookies N Cream bars into small chunks, ensuring bits of cookie and creamy white chocolate are evenly sized.
- Fold these chunks into the dough along with 1 cup of white chocolate chips for added sweetness and melty texture.
- Finally, crush ½ cup of chocolate sandwich cookies coarsely and fold them in to enhance the chocolate crunch.
This combination creates a cookie dough packed with distinct layers of creamy sweetness and crispy chocolate cookie bits.
Shaping the Cookies
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out dough balls of approximately 2 tablespoons (about 1.25 ounces each) for consistent cookie sizes.
- Place the dough balls 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow spreading.
- For a generous texture, gently press additional cookie chunks or chocolate chips on top of each dough ball.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges turn golden but centers remain soft.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Oven Temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Dough Portion Size | 2 tablespoons (1.25 ounces) |
| Bake Time | 10 to 12 minutes |
| Cooling Time | 5 minutes on sheet, then on rack |
By following these steps, we ensure every cookie delivers the perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and chocolaty delight reminiscent of the beloved Hershey’s Cookies N Cream bar.
Baking Directions
Baking Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream Cookies requires precise timing and temperature to achieve that perfect balance of creamy sweetness and chocolate crunch. Let’s walk through the essential baking details for the best results.
Oven Temperature and Baking Time
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking. This temperature allows the cookies to cook through without burning the edges or undercooking the centers.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Oven temperature | 350°F (175°C) |
| Baking time | 10-12 minutes |
| Cookie size | About 1.5 tablespoons dough per cookie |
| Baking sheet type | Non-stick or lined with parchment paper |
Place the cookie dough balls spaced about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow for even spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft. The cookies will firm up more as they cool.
Tips for Perfect Cookies
To ensure every batch of our Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream Cookies comes out perfectly, keep these baking tips in mind:
- Use room temperature butter for a smoother cream and better dough consistency.
- Do not overmix once you add the dry ingredients; this keeps the cookies tender.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes if you want thicker cookies with minimal spreading.
- Rotate baking sheets halfway through baking for consistent heat distribution.
- Cool cookies on a wire rack immediately after removing from the oven to prevent sogginess.
Cooling and Serving
Once we remove the Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream Cookies from the oven, immediate attention to cooling will ensure optimum texture and flavor. We transfer the hot cookies onto a wire cooling rack using a spatula. This allows air to circulate freely around each cookie, preventing moisture buildup and sogginess.
We recommend letting the cookies cool on the rack for at least 15 minutes. During this time the edges firm up while the centers stay soft and creamy, perfectly showcasing the signature texture of the cookies. Cooling also allows the white chocolate chips and chopped Hershey’s bars inside to set just right, enhancing every bite with a delightful balance of crunch and creaminess.
| Cooling Step | Purpose | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Transfer cookies to wire rack | Prevent sogginess and retain crisp edges | Immediately after baking |
| Cool completely | Set texture and flavors | 15 minutes or until fully cooled |
For serving, we suggest presenting these cookies slightly warm. We can gently rewarm cooled cookies for 10 seconds in the microwave to revive their fresh-baked softness. Pairing a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream amplifies the creamy chocolate flavors, making for an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.
Remember to store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness. Placing a slice of bread inside the container helps keep cookies soft by absorbing excess moisture.
To sum up our Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream Cookie Recipe serving tips:
Storage and Shelf Life
To maintain the fresh taste and texture of our Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream Cookies it is essential to follow proper storage guidelines. Here is how we can extend their shelf life while preserving their signature creamy crunch.
Room Temperature Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container immediately after they have cooled completely.
- Add a slice of bread inside the container to keep the cookies soft and moist. The bread absorbs excess air moisture without drying the cookies.
- Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Shelf Life at Room Temperature
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight container | 3 to 5 days | Best consumed within this period for freshness |
| Airtight container + bread slice | Up to 7 days | Maintains softness longer |
Refrigeration
- If we want to store cookies longer than a week, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Bring cookies back to room temperature before serving to restore softness or warm them briefly in the microwave.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
- Freeze cookies in a single layer on parchment paper in a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in a microwave for that fresh-baked taste.
Shelf Life in the Freezer
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Airtight container or bag | Up to 3 months | Maintains flavor and texture when properly sealed |
Pro Tip: Always label containers with the date of baking or freezing to manage freshness effectively.
By following these simple storage tips our Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream Cookies will stay deliciously creamy and crunchy every time we enjoy them. Proper storage preserves the balance of flavors and textures that make these cookies a classic treat.
Conclusion
Baking Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream cookies at home is a rewarding experience that brings a classic favorite right to our kitchen. With the right ingredients and tools, we can easily achieve that perfect balance of creamy sweetness and chocolate crunch.
These cookies make for a delightful treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying any time. By following simple tips and storage guidelines, we ensure each bite stays fresh and delicious.
Let’s keep baking and savoring the joy that comes from homemade cookies with that iconic Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream cookies?
You need all-purpose flour, baking soda, crushed chocolate sandwich cookies, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, chopped Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream bars, white chocolate chips, and extra cookie chunks for texture.
What equipment is necessary for baking these cookies?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, an electric mixer, measuring cups and spoons, a silicone spatula, a cookie scoop, baking sheets, and a cooling rack.
How should I prepare the cookie dough?
Cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy, add eggs and vanilla, mix dry ingredients separately, then combine all. Finally, fold in chopped Hershey’s bars, white chocolate chips, and crushed cookies.
At what temperature and time should the cookies be baked?
Bake cookies at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until edges are lightly golden and centers remain soft.
How can I ensure my cookies have the perfect texture?
Use room temperature butter, avoid overmixing, chill dough for thicker cookies, rotate baking sheets during baking, and cool on a wire rack to prevent sogginess.
What is the best way to cool and serve these cookies?
Cool cookies on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes. Serve slightly warm, optionally reheated briefly in the microwave, and pair with cold milk or vanilla ice cream.
How should I store leftover Hershey’s Cookies ‘n’ Cream cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days with a slice of bread to keep moisture. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze with proper labeling.