If you’re on the hunt for a cookie that’s irresistibly soft, packed with rich chocolate chips, and just the right hint of creamy vanilla, the Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe is your new best friend. These cookies rise to perfection with the magic of instant pudding mix, delivering a texture that’s both chewy and tender. Whether you’re baking for a cozy night in or sharing with loved ones, this recipe blends simplicity and deliciousness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe plays a star role, from the buttery softness of the butter to the subtle vanilla flavors that brighten up each bite. The combination keeps the texture plush and the color inviting, while the chocolate chips bring that classic melty goodness we all crave.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure without making the cookies tough.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise beautifully and creates that perfect spread.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and helps with that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar: Offers a deep, caramel-like sweetness and keeps cookies moist.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Contributes to crisp edges and a subtle crunch.
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix: The secret ingredient that makes these cookies insanely soft and flavorful.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the cookie’s aroma and taste with warm, sweet notes.
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips: For those pockets of gooey chocolate that are pure joy.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and help your cookies bake evenly with a beautiful golden bottom.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients Together
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Combining these dry ingredients thoroughly ensures your cookies have the perfect texture and rise evenly every time.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Grab a large mixing bowl and beat the softened butter with the light brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This essential step creates air pockets that translate into soft, tender cookies.
Step 4: Add Pudding Mix, Eggs, and Vanilla
Now, mix in the instant vanilla pudding mix, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. The pudding adds that signature moistness and subtle vanilla flavor that sets this recipe apart.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make the cookies tough. Then fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips, distributing them throughout the dough for maximum chocolaty goodness.
Step 6: Scoop and Bake
Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop portions of dough onto your prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges turn golden but the centers still look slightly soft. This timing keeps the cookies chewy and soft, rather than crispy.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right after baking can elevate the chocolate flavor while offering a lovely contrast to the sweetness. For an extra festive touch, try rolling the dough balls in crushed nuts before baking or sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top for extra indulgence.
Side Dishes
These cookies are wonderful on their own, but pairing them with a cold glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for an unforgettable treat. You can also serve them alongside a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate to complement the warm, sweet flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond the cookie jar? These cookies make fantastic sandwich-style treats with a layer of your favorite frosting, marshmallow fluff, or peanut butter in between. Arrange them stacked on a beautiful plate or in a pretty tin for gifting—everyone will feel like they’re receiving a homemade treasure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe fresh and soft, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to a week, maintaining that perfect chewy texture every single day.
Freezing
If you want to bake ahead or save some for later, these cookies freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. When you’re ready, thaw them at room temperature for a couple of hours, and you’ll have freshly soft cookies anytime.
Reheating
To enjoy these cookies warm and melty, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or briefly heat them in the oven. This simple step revives their gooey, soft charm just like they came fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix in the Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe?
Absolutely! While vanilla pudding is classic and complements the chocolate chips wonderfully, feel free to experiment with butterscotch, chocolate, or even banana pudding mixes to create your unique twist.
Why does the pudding mix make a difference in cookies?
Instant pudding mix adds moisture and tenderness to the cookie dough, resulting in softer, chewier cookies that stay fresh longer. It also imparts subtle flavors that elevate the overall taste.
Can I substitute the butter for margarine or oil?
Butter is preferred for its rich flavor and structure, but margarine can be used if needed. Oil isn’t recommended as it may change the dough’s texture, causing the cookies to be too greasy or flat.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Make sure your butter is softened but not melted and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to control spreading. Also, accurate measurement of flour helps keep the dough sturdy.
What should I do if my cookies bake unevenly?
Rotate your baking sheet halfway through baking and ensure your oven temperature is accurate with an oven thermometer. Using parchment paper or silicone mats also promotes even baking.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe enough if you’re craving that perfect balance of soft, chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor. It’s a recipe you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again, whether for everyday snacking or special occasions. So, why not gather those simple ingredients and start baking some smiles today?
Print
Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies are delightfully soft and chewy, combining classic chocolate chips with instant vanilla pudding mix for added moisture and flavor. Perfectly golden on the edges and tender in the center, they make an irresistible treat for any cookie lover.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Using an electric mixer, cream the softened unsalted butter with the light brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and well combined.
- Add Pudding Mix and Eggs: Mix in the instant vanilla pudding mix, followed by the eggs and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly until the batter is smooth.
- Combine Mixtures and Add Chocolate Chips: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough. Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.
- Scoop and Bake: Scoop spoonfuls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers are set but still soft.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature to achieve proper creaming.
- Do not overmix the dough after adding dry ingredients to keep cookies tender.
- If desired, chill the dough before baking to reduce spreading and get thicker cookies.
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.
