Step 1: Prepare the wet ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until the mixture is creamy and smooth. This step is crucial to creating the soft, gooey texture of the cookies. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add eggs and vanilla
Crack the eggs into the mixture, one at a time, ensuring that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will enhance the overall flavor and aroma of the cookies.

Step 3: Combine dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, resulting in perfectly risen cookies. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.

Step 4: Fold in Reese’s and chocolate chips
Gently fold in the chopped Reese’s peanut butter cups and chocolate chips. Be generous here—the more chunks, the gooier and more delicious your cookies will be! Make sure the pieces are evenly distributed throughout the dough to guarantee Reese’s goodness in every bite.

Step 5: Chill the dough
For the best results, cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking. Scoop out heaping tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared sheets, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are just set. The cookies should appear slightly underbaked—this ensures they remain gooey inside.

Step 7: Cool
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.