Pistachio Pudding Cookies

These soft, chewy pistachio pudding cookies are a delightful treat bursting with the rich flavor of pistachios. Made with instant pistachio pudding mix, they have a wonderful texture and a hint of sweetness that makes them irresistible. Perfect for any occasion, they’ll quickly become a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique flavor: The pistachio pudding mix gives these cookies a distinctive nutty flavor.
• Soft and chewy texture: The pudding mix ensures a moist and tender cookie every time.
• Simple ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry already.
• Versatile: These cookies are perfect for dessert platters, snacks, or gifting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Instant pistachio pudding mix
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• All-purpose flour
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Chopped pistachios or white chocolate chips (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix wet ingredients: Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Add pudding mix: Stir in the instant pistachio pudding mix until fully combined.
5. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Optional additions: Fold in chopped pistachios or white chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
7. Scoop dough: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and lightly golden.
9. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies, depending on the size.
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 20-22 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: Include chopped pistachios, white chocolate chips, or dried cranberries for extra flavor and texture.
• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute.
• Vegan version: Swap butter with vegan margarine and use a flax egg instead of regular eggs.
• Extra green tint: Add a few drops of green food coloring for a more vibrant cookie.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature.
• Reheating: If you prefer warm cookies, heat them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different pudding flavor?

Yes, you can substitute pistachio pudding with other flavors like vanilla or chocolate, though the distinct pistachio taste will be different.

2. Do I need to chill the dough?

Chilling is not necessary for this recipe, but it can enhance the cookie’s flavor and texture.

3. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavor.

4. Are these cookies overly sweet?

No, the sweetness is balanced, especially with the nutty flavor of pistachios.

5. What type of pistachios should I use?

Use shelled and chopped pistachios for convenience. Roasted pistachios add extra flavor.

6. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

7. How can I ensure soft cookies?

Avoid overbaking and store cookies in an airtight container to retain their softness.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and follow the same directions.

9. What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) as an egg replacement.

10. How do I know when the cookies are done?

The edges will be set, and the centers will still look slightly soft. They’ll continue to set as they cool.

Conclusion

Pistachio pudding cookies are a delightful and easy-to-make dessert that everyone will love. Their soft texture and nutty flavor make them a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them as-is or with creative variations, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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