Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I adore these Pistachio Pudding Cookies because they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The instant pistachio pudding mix imparts a subtle nutty taste and a vibrant green hue, while the addition of almond extract enhances the pistachio flavor. The cookies are soft and chewy, with a slight crispness around the edges, making them irresistibly delicious. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings, special occasions, or simply as a treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ teaspoon almond extract

• 1 large egg

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• Green food coloring (optional, for a more vibrant color)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: I begin by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, I cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the Wet Ingredients: I mix in the instant pistachio pudding mix, vanilla extract, almond extract, and egg until well combined.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, I whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. If desired, I add a few drops of green food coloring to achieve a more vibrant green color.

6. Shape the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, I portion out the dough and roll it into balls. I place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

7. Bake: I bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. I allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 24 cookies

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 10–12 minutes

• Total Time: 25–27 minutes

Variations

• Add-Ins: I sometimes mix in white chocolate chips or chopped pistachios for added texture and flavor.

• Flavor Twist: I substitute the almond extract with hazelnut or maple extract for a different nutty profile.

• Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, I use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and ensure the pudding mix is gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: I store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

• Freezing: I can freeze the dough balls before baking. Once frozen, I transfer them to a freezer bag and bake directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

• Reheating: I reheat the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore their softness.

FAQs

Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?

Yes, I can experiment with other flavors like vanilla, chocolate, or butterscotch pudding mix for a unique twist on this recipe.

Do I need to chill the dough before baking?

No, I don’t need to chill the dough. These cookies bake perfectly without any chilling time.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While I can use margarine, I prefer butter for its flavor and texture. If I use margarine, the cookies may spread more during baking.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

I can add colored sprinkles or drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies for a festive touch.

Can I make these cookies without the pudding mix?

The pudding mix adds flavor and texture, but if I don’t have it, I can substitute with an equal amount of all-purpose flour and add a bit more almond extract for flavor.

Conclusion

These Pistachio Pudding Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with a soft and chewy texture. The addition of almond extract enhances the pistachio flavor, making each bite a delicious experience. Whether I’m baking for a special occasion or just craving a sweet snack, these cookies never disappoint.

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