Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

Soft, chewy chocolate chip pudding cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. These cookies are uniquely made with pudding mix, which keeps them soft and adds a rich flavor. Whether enjoyed with a glass of cold milk, used as an ice cream sandwich, or savored warm right out of the oven, they are sure to impress. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet snack at home, these cookies will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Soft Texture: The addition of pudding mix ensures that each cookie remains soft and chewy even days after baking.
• Simple Ingredients: With common pantry staples, making these cookies is easy and accessible for everyone.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them plain, or get creative by adding nuts or different types of chocolate chips.
• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes minimal time from prep to bake, making it perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Baking these cookies together can be a fun activity for kids and adults alike!

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious chocolate chip pudding cookies, having the right tools will make the process smoother. Gather your equipment before you start baking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer (or hand mixer)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cookie sheet
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool makes creaming the butter and sugars quick and easy, ensuring a light texture in your cookies.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in chocolate chips without overmixing the dough.
• Cookie sheet: Provides an even surface for baking multiple batches of cookies at once.

Ingredients

To make your own batch of chocolate chip pudding cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cookies

• 2 1/4 cups all purpose flour (spooned and leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 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
• 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 aside.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or a hand mixer, cream the softened butter with both sugars on high speed until light and creamy. This should take about 3 minutes—don’t skip this step!

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Add the dry pudding mix along with eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat on high for an additional 2–3 minutes until it’s light and fluffy.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add half of your dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed to prevent messiness. Once combined, increase speed to high until well mixed. Repeat this step with the remaining dry ingredients until just combined. Gently stir in the chocolate chips using a rubber spatula.

Step 6: Bake Your Cookies

Using a large cookie scoop or 1/4 cup measuring cup, drop cookie dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven for 10–12 minutes or until slightly golden around the edges but still soft on top. Allow cooling on the baking sheet for two minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your freshly baked 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. Whether you prefer them warm from the oven or as part of an elaborate dessert, these cookies are versatile and perfect for any occasion.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing that enhances the rich chocolate flavor. The cold milk complements the warm, gooey cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor. The combination of warm cookies and cold ice cream creates a delicious contrast.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange your cookies on a platter with fresh fruit and whipped topping for an appealing dessert spread at parties or gatherings.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Serve warm cookies topped with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. Add chocolate drizzle for a gourmet touch.

Cookie Crumble Parfait

• Layer crumbled cookies with yogurt or pudding in a glass for a fun and tasty parfait. This makes for an eye-catching dessert option.

As Party Favors

• Package individual cookies in cute bags tied with ribbons to give away as party favors. They add a personal touch to any celebration.

How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

To achieve the perfect Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for easier mixing, resulting in a smoother dough.

• Do Not Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and chewy. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.

• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent spreading during baking.

• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake. Remove them when they’re slightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.

• Use Quality Chocolate Chips: Invest in high-quality semi-sweet chocolate chips for better flavor. Good chocolate makes all the difference!

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies pair well with various side dishes that can complement their sweet flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream balances out the sweetness and adds creaminess to each bite.
2. Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness of the cookies.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and healthy contrast to the dense cookie texture.
4. Nut Butter Dip: Serve nut butter as a dip for an extra layer of flavor; almond or peanut butter works wonderfully.
5. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle chocolate sauce over your cookies or serve it on the side for those who crave more chocolate.
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea enhances the cookie experience, making it perfect for afternoon snacks or desserts.
7. Milkshake: Blend up a chocolate milkshake for an indulgent pairing that turns snack time into dessert time!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies is fun, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the Creaming Step: Failing to cream the butter and sugars properly can lead to dense cookies. Make sure to beat them until light and fluffy for the best texture.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Overpacking flour can result in dry cookies. Use a spoon to fluff up the flour before spooning it into your measuring cup.
• Ignoring Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can affect dough consistency. Always let your ingredients reach room temperature before mixing.
• Overbaking the Cookies: Baking them too long will make them hard instead of chewy. Keep an eye on them; they should be slightly golden but still soft in the center.
• Using Old Ingredients: Expired baking soda or pudding mix can ruin your cookies. Check expiration dates for freshness before starting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• These cookies can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat each cookie for about 10-15 seconds, but watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat for a couple of minutes, turning occasionally for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies.

What makes Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies different?

Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies use instant pudding mix, which adds moisture and keeps them soft longer than traditional recipes.

Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?

Yes! You can use flax eggs or applesauce as egg replacements. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg.

How do I customize my Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies?

You can add nuts, dried fruits, or switch out chocolate chips for other types such as white chocolate or butterscotch chips for variety.

Why did my cookies spread too much?

If your dough was too warm or you didn’t chill it before baking, that could cause excess spreading. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.

How long do these cookies last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, they can last up to 5 days at room temperature and up to 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

These Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies are soft, chewy, and perfect for any occasion. They make great snacks and desserts that can easily be customized with your favorite mix-ins. Try this recipe today and enjoy its delightful versatility!