As I pulled the first batch of freshly baked cookies from the oven, a wave of excitement swept over me. These Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies are not just any cookies; they hold a delightful surprise inside that makes them the ultimate springtime treat! With their thick, buttery texture and vibrant marshmallow centers, they’re perfect for celebrating Easter or simply indulging in something sweet. Not only are these cookies visually stunning, but they’re incredibly customizable too—feel free to switch up the colors and types of Peeps or even opt for white chocolate! Imagine impressing friends and family with a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Are you ready to bake some unforgettable memories? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These Cookies So Special?
Irresistible Combination: With a thick, buttery cookie and a gooey marshmallow center, these cookies create a unique taste experience that’s truly unforgettable.
Customizable Fun: Tailor your cookies with different colors and types of Peeps or switch out chocolate chips for white or milk chocolate. The options are endless!
Perfect for Easter: Ideal for spring celebrations, these vibrant cookies will steal the show at any gathering, making them the perfect treat to impress guests.
Quick and Easy: Made with simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch quickly—great for when you need a last-minute dessert.
Great for Kids: Involve little hands in creating these colorful delights—baking together is a fun way to make memories!
These Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies provide an exceptional twist on traditional cookies, and if you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out these Oatmeal Chocolate Chip or Chocolate Peanut Butter treats!
Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies
These cookies are a delightful spring treat filled with colorful surprises!
For the Cookie Dough
- Unsalted Butter – Offers richness and tenderness; be sure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Granulated Sugar – Contributes crisp edges; can be swapped for coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and chewiness; choose light or dark, depending on your taste.
- Large Eggs – Binds ingredients; room temperature eggs mix better and create a smoother batter.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates flavor; always use pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
- Baking Soda – A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise for that fluffy texture.
- Baking Powder – Works alongside baking soda to maintain the dough’s shape and height.
- Cornstarch – Softens the texture for tender cookies; critical for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors; don’t skip this for the best results.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; a gluten-free blend can replace this for a gluten-free version.
For the Filling
- Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips – Adds rich chocolate goodness; swap for milk chocolate or white chocolate if desired.
- Peep Marshmallows – The star of the show! Can be replaced with flavored marshmallows or mini Peeps for different cookie sizes.
For Decoration
- Easter Sprinkles – Adds festive flair; completely optional but highly recommended for a colorful finish.
Get ready to bake and watch your loved ones delight at the sight and taste of these Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a stand mixer, cream together 2 sticks of room-temperature unsalted butter, ½ cup granulated sugar, and ¾ cup brown sugar for about 5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. Next, add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well in between, followed by 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract until fully combined, creating a rich and creamy base for your Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, ¾ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture in the stand mixer on low speed, letting them blend together smoothly for about 1 minute until just combined. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture.
Step 3: Combine Add-ins
With a spatula, gently fold in 2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips and ½ cup of Easter sprinkles to the dough, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout. The vibrant sprinkles will add a festive touch to the cookies. Ensure not to overmix to keep the cookie dough fluffy and tender for the Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies.
Step 4: Portion and Stuff
Using a 4oz cookie scoop, portion out 8 dough rounds. Flatten each round in your hand, place a Peep in the center, and wrap the dough completely around the marshmallow, ensuring it is fully sealed. These filled dough balls will become the star of your cookies, bringing a delightful surprise with every bite.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Place the stuffed dough balls onto a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate them for at least 2 hours or up to 48 hours. Chilling is essential to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking, allowing the flavors to meld together. This will ensure your Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies maintain their thick and chewy texture.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Once the oven is ready, bake 4 cookies at a time for 14-16 minutes. Watch for the edges to turn golden, while the centers remain slightly soft. This will give you the perfect combination of a crispy exterior and a gooey marshmallow center.
Step 7: Cool Down
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 20-30 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period is crucial for the cookies to set properly, ensuring the Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies are chewy yet firm enough to hold their shape, while still encasing that delicious melty Peep inside.
Expert Tips for Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This creates a smooth, well-blended dough, essential for the perfect cookies.
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Chill the Dough: Don’t skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the dough for at least 2 hours helps maintain cookie size and texture, preventing them from spreading too thin while baking.
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Peep Placement: Make sure the dough completely encapsulates the Peep to avoid any marshmallow leakages during baking. This ensures that each cookie retains its delightful surprise inside.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be golden at the edges but soft in the center. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture rather than the gooeyness you want from your Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies.
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Experiment with Flavor: Don’t hesitate to mix up the chocolate chips or Peeps! Using different flavors or colors can elevate your cookies and make the most of seasonal marshmallow variations.
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Decorate Deliberately: Add sprinkles before chilling for a fun decorative touch. If you prefer a cleaner look, wait until after baking to sprinkle on those festive Easter vibes!
Make Ahead Options
These Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cookie dough and refrigerate it for up to 48 hours before baking. Simply follow the first four steps of the recipe, then portion and stuff the dough around each Peep, placing them in an airtight container in the fridge. If you want to plan even further ahead, you can freeze the stuffed dough balls for up to 3 months; just ensure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to maintain quality. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—simply add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for fresh, gooey cookies that are just as delicious as if made from scratch that day!
What to Serve with Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies
Indulging in these delightful cookies calls for a perfect accompaniment to elevate your dessert experience.
- Glass of Milk: A classic pairing that enhances the cookie’s rich flavors, bringing nostalgia with every sip.
- Fresh Strawberries: Juicy and sweet, strawberries add a refreshing contrast that cuts through the cookie’s sweetness beautifully.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of whipped cream on the side will turn your cookies into a mini dessert dream.
- Easter-themed Punch: A fruity, refreshing punch celebrates the festivities beautifully, balancing the cookies’ richness with its zesty flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Melted ice cream swirling around the warm cookies creates a delicious combination, turning every bite into a sweet memory.
- Chocolate Milkshake: Thick and creamy, a homemade milkshake combines flavors, creating a deliciously indulgent twist for any chocolate lover.
- Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the cookies, making for a delightful mid-afternoon treat.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel on top of your cookie adds a buttery sweetness that makes them truly irresistible.
- Fruit Salad: A light, colorful medley of fruits provides freshness and a hint of tartness, balancing the cookies’ sweetness perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies
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Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week to keep them fresh and soft.
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Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week. Let them come to room temperature before serving.
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Freezer: Freeze unbaked dough balls for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, just preheat the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
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Reheating: Warm cookies in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delightful twists on Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies!
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Different Peeps: Use an array of Peeps in various colors and flavors to create a vibrant cookie lineup. Swap in strawberry or cotton candy for a fun flavor surprise!
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Chocolate Choices: Substitute semi-sweet chocolate chips with white chocolate or even milk chocolate for a sweet twist. The sweetness contrasts beautifully with the gooey marshmallow center.
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Gluten-Free: To make these cookies gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Enjoy every bite without compromise!
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Add Nuts: For a satisfying crunch, mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. This adds texture and a lovely nutty flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Flavor Enhancements: Incorporate a teaspoon of espresso powder or almond extract for added depth. It beautifully complements the chocolate and elevates your cookies to gourmet status.
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Fruity Touch: Consider mixing in dried fruit like cranberries or cherries for a tart contrast to the sweetness of chocolate and Peeps. It’s a surprising and tasty addition!
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Sprinkle Fest: Go wild with the sprinkles! Use themed sprinkles such as bunnies or eggs for an Instagram-worthy look. You can even top with colorful frosting after baking.
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Stuffed Surprises: For more fun, stuff the cookies with flavored marshmallows or even caramel for an extra gooey center. Your cookies will be a hit at every gathering!
Unlock different flavor profiles and textures with these fun variations! If you’re looking for more inspiration, consider trying these tasty Oatmeal Chocolate Chip cookies or a rich Chocolate Peanut Butter dessert!
Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies Recipe FAQs
How can I select the best Peeps for my cookies?
Absolutely! When choosing Peeps, look for vibrant colors and ensure they’re fresh, without dark spots all over. This ensures you get that gooey texture in the center. If you’re feeling adventurous, try different flavors or colors to add a unique twist!
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
You can store your Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week, which keeps them soft and chewy. If you prefer them slightly firmer, refrigerate them for the same duration. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! To freeze your unbaked dough balls, place them on a parchment-lined tray, freeze until solid, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and add an extra minute or two to the baking time for fresh-baked goodness!
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies are spreading too thin, the likely culprit is warm dough. Make sure to chill the stuffed dough balls for at least 2 hours before baking, as this helps maintain their shape. If they still spread too much, consider adding a touch more flour next time or decreasing the temperature of your oven by 25°F for a gentler bake.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Very much so! To make gluten-free Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free blend. This ensures you still achieve that chewy texture while accommodating any gluten sensitivities. Just double-check your chocolate chips and Peeps to ensure they are gluten-free as well!
How can I prevent the marshmallows from leaking during baking?
To avoid marshmallow blowouts, ensure the cookie dough is evenly thick around the Peep and seal it tightly. If you’re using mini Peeps, adjust the cookie size accordingly—smaller marshmallows may require less dough. For best results, chill the dough after shaping them to solidify before baking.
Giant Chocolate Chip Peep Stuffed Easter Cookies You'll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a stand mixer, cream together unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about 5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well, followed by vanilla extract until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, cornstarch, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed, blending until just combined.
- Fold in chocolate chips and Easter sprinkles evenly throughout the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop, portion out dough rounds, flatten, place a Peep in the center, and wrap dough around it.
- Refrigerate the stuffed dough balls for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Bake cookies in batches for 14-16 minutes until edges are golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on baking sheets for 20-30 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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