What are pudding cookies?

Pudding cookies are a type of cookie that includes a packet of instant pudding mix right in the dough. This simple addition is a total game-changer! The cornstarch and other ingredients in the pudding mix help the cookies retain moisture, which results in an incredibly soft, chewy, and tender texture that lasts for days longer than many traditional cookie recipes.

What else can I do with pistachio pudding mix?

Pistachio pudding mix is surprisingly versatile! Beyond these cookies, you can use it to make a classic no-bake pistachio pie by mixing it with milk and whipped topping and pouring it into a graham cracker crust. You can also create a delicious layered dessert, alternating pistachio pudding with layers of whipped cream and crushed cookies. I've even seen people mix it with yogurt or cream cheese to create a sweet, nutty dip for fruit.

What's the best brand of pistachio pudding mix?

Honestly, most brands work wonderfully in this recipe. I most often use the Jell-O brand because it's widely available and provides a consistent, classic pistachio flavor that I love. However, I have also used store brands like those from Target or Walmart with great success. They all create that signature soft texture, so feel free to use whichever brand you can find!

Is pistachio pudding good for you?

Let's call it what it is—a dessert. The pudding mix itself contains sugar and artificial flavorings, so I wouldn't classify it as a health food. However, life is all about balance, and enjoying a delicious cookie is one of life's simple pleasures! Plus, this recipe uses real pistachios, which provide healthy fats, fiber, and protein. My philosophy is to enjoy sweet treats like these Pistachio Pudding Cookies in moderation as part of a balanced lifestyle.

The Unforgettable Pistachio Pudding Cookies You Need to Bake ASAP

Description

Prepare to fall in love with the most irresistibly soft and chewy pistachio cookies that practically melt in your mouth!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cookie Base:

¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup packed light brown sugar
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 large egg

For the Dry Mix:

1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 (3-ounce) package pistachio instant pudding mix
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt

For the Finishing Touch:

1½ cups shelled chopped pistachios
2–3 drops green food coloring (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper or leave them ungreased – these cookies won’t stick thanks to their buttery texture.

② Create the Base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both brown and granulated sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy – about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer. Add the vanilla extract and egg, beating until just combined and smooth.

③ Add the Magic: Mix in the flour, pistachio pudding mix, baking powder, and salt. Continue mixing until the dough just comes together – don’t overmix! The pudding mix is what gives these cookies their signature soft, chewy texture.

④ Fold in the Goodness: Gently stir in the chopped pistachios and the green food coloring (if using) until the color is evenly distributed throughout the dough. The dough should have a lovely pale green hue with flecks of pistachio pieces.

⑤ Bake to Perfection: Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, portion the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes – they might look slightly underbaked, but that’s perfect! Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

The key to perfect pistachio pudding cookies is using properly softened butter and not overbaking them! Your cookies should look slightly underdone when you remove them from the oven – this ensures they’ll have that perfect chewy texture once they cool. Also, make sure to use a 3-ounce package of pudding mix (some brands vary in size), and beat the butter and sugars until truly fluffy – this creates the ideal texture that makes these cookies so irresistible!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American