Soft, chewy chocolate chip pudding cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth to any occasion. These cookies stand out due to their unique pudding ingredient, which keeps them irresistibly soft and moist. Whether you are dunking them in a cold glass of milk, using them as ice cream sandwich bases, or enjoying them warm right out of the oven, these cookies are sure to please everyone. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply treating yourself, they are a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unmatched Softness: The addition of pudding mix ensures each cookie is soft and chewy.
- Quick and Easy: With a simple preparation process, these cookies can be ready in just over 30 minutes.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them alone, with ice cream, or as part of a dessert platter.
- Family Favorite: Their delicious flavor makes them a hit among both kids and adults alike.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy night in, these cookies fit right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the ingredients and instructions, it’s essential to gather the right tools for making chocolate chip pudding cookies. Having the correct equipment will make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cookie sheet
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools help achieve the perfect creamy texture by efficiently mixing ingredients.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for separating dry and wet ingredients while preventing spills.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup quick after baking.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (vegan butter works too)
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (3.4-ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-Ins
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
How to Make Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In another bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the softened butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar on high speed until light and creamy—this should take at least three minutes. Do not skip this important step!
Step 4: Mix in Pudding and Eggs
Add the dry pudding mix along with the vanilla extract and eggs into the creamed mixture. Beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until everything is light and fluffy.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
Slowly add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while keeping the mixer on low speed to avoid flour flying everywhere. Once well combined, increase to high speed until fully mixed. Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients until just combined. Gently fold in chocolate chips using a rubber spatula.
Step 6: Bake Cookies
Using a large cookie scoop or 1/4 cup measuring cup, drop balls of cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until slightly golden on top but still soft in the center. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for two minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
With these steps completed, you can now enjoy your delicious chocolate chip pudding cookies!
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies
Chocolate chip pudding cookies are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Their soft, chewy texture makes them perfect for pairing with different dishes or serving on their own.
With a Glass of Milk
- A classic pairing! These cookies are perfect for dunking in a cold glass of milk, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Ice Cream Sandwiches
- Create delicious ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This combination is sure to delight anyone!
Warm and Gooey
- Serve the cookies warm straight from the oven for that irresistible melty chocolate experience. Enjoy them as they are, or with a sprinkle of sea salt on top.
Cookie Platter
- Arrange these cookies on a platter for parties or gatherings. They make an excellent addition to any dessert table.
With Coffee or Tea
- Pair these cookies with your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The rich chocolate flavor complements the warmth of these beverages perfectly.
Gift Packs
- Package the cookies in cute boxes as gifts. They make thoughtful treats for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.
How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies
To ensure your chocolate chip pudding cookies turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Let butter and eggs sit out before baking. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even mixing.
- Don’t skip the creaming step: Creaming the butter and sugars thoroughly is crucial. It incorporates air into the mixture, resulting in lighter, fluffier cookies.
- Chill the dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading and enhances flavor.
- Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups and level off with a knife. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
- Check cookie doneness: Remove from the oven when edges are golden but centers look slightly underbaked. They will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
- Store properly: Keep uneaten cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness.
Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies
While chocolate chip pudding cookies are delicious on their own, certain side dishes can elevate your dessert experience even further.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice, vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the warm cookie.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a tartness that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
- Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream is perfect for topping off your cookie servings or ice cream sandwiches.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over your cookie stack for an extra indulgent treat.
- Caramel Sauce: Sweet caramel sauce complements the chocolate chips beautifully, adding richness to each bite.
- Coffee or Espresso: A hot cup of coffee or espresso pairs wonderfully with these sweet treats, enhancing their flavors.
- Milkshakes: Blend up a thick milkshake for a fun and indulgent drink alongside your cookies.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can provide freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the pudding cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final result. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Skipping the Creaming Step: Failing to cream the butter and sugars properly can lead to dense cookies. Make sure to beat them for at least 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Using too much flour can make your cookies dry. Always spoon and level your flour for accurate measurements.
- Overbaking the Cookies: Baking for too long can result in hard cookies instead of soft, chewy ones. Keep an eye on them, pulling them out when they are slightly golden.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs and butter can affect how well your dough comes together. Let both sit at room temperature before using.
- Ignoring the Dough Resting Time: If you rush straight from mixing to baking, you might miss out on enhanced flavor. Allowing the dough to rest for a bit helps improve texture.
- Using Non-Instant Pudding Mix: Regular pudding mix won’t work in this recipe. Make sure to use instant vanilla pudding mix for the best results.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the fridge.
Freezing Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies
- Place cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place cookies on a baking sheet, and heat for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: Place cookie on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat for about 1-2 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies so soft?
The addition of pudding mix keeps these cookies incredibly moist and chewy, making them perfect for any dessert lover.
Can I use different types of chocolate chips?
Absolutely! You can customize your Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies with milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or even white chocolate chips based on your preference.
How do I make these cookies vegan?
To make vegan Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies, substitute unsalted butter with vegan butter and replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?
Yes! Feel free to add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even dried fruits for extra flavor and texture in your Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies.
How long do these cookies last after baking?
Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies can last up to one week at room temperature in an airtight container or longer if refrigerated.
Final Thoughts
These Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies are a delightful treat that combines softness with rich chocolate flavor. Their versatility allows you to customize them according to your taste preferences—whether adding nuts or experimenting with different types of chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how quick and easy it is!