Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

Soft, chewy chocolate chip pudding cookies are a delightful treat that everyone will love. Made with pudding mix, these cookies stay soft and moist, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re dunking them in milk, sandwiching them around ice cream, or enjoying them warm straight from the oven, these Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies are sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Soft: The pudding mix ensures that each cookie is soft and chewy even days after baking.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up a batch without hassle.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, holiday gatherings, or a cozy night at home with milk.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of semi-sweet chocolate chips and vanilla pudding creates a rich and satisfying taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: These cookies are loved by both kids and adults alike—perfect for sharing!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience. Having everything ready will make the process fun and easy.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, resulting in light and fluffy dough.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for keeping ingredients organized while preparing your dough.
• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your cookies to perfection.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies, you will need:

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

Mix-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: Combine 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 a separate bowl using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the butter along with the brown sugar and granulated sugar on high speed until light and creamy. This should take at least 3 minutes—don’t skip this step as it adds air to the mixture!

Step 4: Add Pudding Mix and Eggs

Add the dry pudding mix, vanilla extract, and eggs into the butter mixture. Beat on high speed for 2-3 minutes until everything is light and fluffy.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Start mixing on low speed to avoid flour flying everywhere! Gradually increase to high speed until combined. Add the remaining dry ingredients and repeat until just combined. Use a rubber spatula to stir in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake Cookies

Using a large cookie scoop or a 1/4 cup measuring cup, drop dough balls onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until slightly golden brown on top. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for two minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies!

How to Serve Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies are versatile and delicious, perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

With Cold Milk

• Enjoy your cookies with a chilled glass of milk. The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the soft, chewy cookies.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create indulgent ice cream sandwiches by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies. This adds a refreshing twist!

Warm and Gooey

• Serve the cookies warm right out of the oven. The chocolate chips will be melty, creating a delightful experience.

Dessert Platters

• Arrange your cookies on a dessert platter alongside fruits or other treats. This makes for an inviting presentation at gatherings.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Complement your cookies with a hot cup of coffee or tea. The flavors blend beautifully, enhancing your snack time.

Festive Gift Packages

• Pack these cookies into decorative boxes as gifts during holidays or special occasions. They make thoughtful and tasty presents.

How to Perfect Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

To achieve the best Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies, follow these simple tips for perfect results every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients – Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Cream well – Beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy; this incorporates air for a lighter cookie.
• Don’t overmix the dough – Mix until just combined to keep the cookies tender and chewy.
• Chill cookie dough (optional) – Refrigerating dough for 30 minutes can enhance flavors and improve texture.
• Check baking time – Keep an eye on the cookies while baking; remove them once they’re slightly golden for optimal softness.
• Store properly – Keep cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

These side dishes pair wonderfully with Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies, making your dessert spread even more delightful.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that balances the dessert’s richness.
3. Nut Butter Dippers – Provide almond or peanut butter as a dip to add protein and flavor contrast.
4. Cheese Platter – Include soft cheeses like brie or mascarpone that provide a luxurious touch alongside sweet flavors.
5. Chocolate Fondue – Offer melted chocolate for dipping fruits or additional cookie pieces, creating an interactive treat.
6. Mini Pastries – Serve small pastries like éclairs or tarts for variety on your dessert table, adding elegance to your spread.
7. Chia Seed Pudding – A light pudding made with chia seeds offers a healthy yet indulgent alternative alongside your cookies.
8. Trail Mix – A homemade mix of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits adds crunch and complements the chewy texture of the cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chocolate chip pudding cookies is fun, but some common mistakes can ruin your batch. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Creaming Step: Not creaming the butter and sugars long enough can lead to dense cookies. Ensure you mix until light and fluffy for the best texture.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold eggs or butter can affect the dough consistency. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature before mixing.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too long after adding flour can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until combined for that soft, chewy texture.

• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down and result in too much flour. Spoon and level your flour for accuracy.

• Ignoring Baking Time: Overbaking will leave you with dry cookies. Keep a close eye on them and remove them when they are slightly golden.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months.
• Lay cookies flat in a single layer before sealing to maintain shape.

Reheating Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individually for 10-15 seconds on low power for a warm treat.
• Stovetop: Use a covered skillet over low heat for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chocolate chip pudding cookies:

How do I make my Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies chewier?

For chewier cookies, try using more brown sugar than white sugar. Brown sugar adds moisture, resulting in a softer texture.

Can I use other flavors of pudding mix?

Absolutely! Experimenting with different pudding flavors like butterscotch or chocolate can add unique tastes to your chocolate chip pudding cookies.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

How can I customize my Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies?

Feel free to mix in nuts, dried fruit, or swap chocolate chips for white chocolate or peanut butter chips for added flavor.

Can I use vegan butter in this recipe?

Yes! Vegan butter works wonderfully as a substitute and maintains the delicious taste of these cookies.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate chip pudding cookies are not only soft and chewy but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them with different mix-ins or flavors. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect whether you’re enjoying them with milk or sandwiching ice cream between two warm cookies!