Pudding Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies, blending the soft, chewy texture of a classic cookie with the rich, creamy consistency of pudding. This recipe produces cookies that are not only deliciously flavored but also incredibly moist and tender. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your dessert repertoire.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this pudding cookies recipe for several reasons. First, the addition of pudding mix elevates the flavor profile, allowing for endless variations whether you prefer chocolate, vanilla, or even seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice. The ease of preparation makes this recipe perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros, as it requires no special techniques or equipment. Plus, these cookies make a great treat to share with friends and family, fitting seamlessly into a busy lifestyle without sacrificing taste.
Tips and Tricks
To ensure your pudding cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some tips and tricks:
- Use room temperature butter for better incorporation into the dough.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking to enhance the texture and flavor.
- Experiment with different flavors of pudding mix to create a variety of cookies; chocolate pudding creates a rich cookie while vanilla adds a light sweetness.
- Don’t overcrowd your baking sheet; give your cookies space to spread evenly.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking. For longer storage, freeze the dough for up to 2 months. Just portion out the dough balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, you can go straight from the freezer to the oven, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Recipe Variations
Consider these variations to customize your pudding cookies:
- Swap out the chocolate chips for butterscotch chips or nuts for added texture.
- Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist.
- Create stuffed cookies by placing a piece of your favorite candy in the center before baking!
How to Serve
These cookies shine when served warm, straight from the oven, accompanied by a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat. For an elegant presentation, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter and dust with powdered sugar. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a tall glass of cold milk is the classic choice, but you might also enjoy these cookies with a rich cup of coffee or a sweet dessert wine. Complementary desserts like brownies or chocolate mousse can create a delightful dessert table, especially for gatherings or parties.
How to Store
Leftover pudding cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you need to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to regain their soft texture.
Equipment Needed
You will need basic baking equipment for this recipe, including:
- Mixing bowls
- A hand mixer or stand mixer
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper (optional for easier cleanup)
- Measuring cups and spoons
If you don’t have a mixer, you can also mix by hand, although it will require a bit more elbow grease!
Dietary Adaptations
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) in place of the egg. For a dairy-free version, ensure your chocolate chips are dairy-free as well. For nut-free adaptations, simply omit any nuts and check your ingredients for any potential cross-contamination.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the fall, try incorporating spices like pumpkin spice pudding or adding shredded zucchini for a moist texture. During the summer, consider using lemon or coconut pudding to create a refreshing cookie. In winter, peppermint pudding can add a festive touch to your baking lineup.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I substitute the pudding mix? Yes, feel free to experiment with different flavors of pudding mix to suit your taste.
- What if I don’t have chocolate chips? You can use any type of chocolate, nuts, or even dried fruit as a substitute.
- How long should I bake the cookies? Bake the cookies for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Can I refrigerate the dough overnight? Absolutely! In fact, chilling the dough overnight can enhance the flavors.
Pudding Cookies
Pudding Cookies are a delightful twist on traditional cookies, blending the soft, chewy texture of a classic cookie with the rich, creamy consistency of pudding.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant pudding mix (flavor of your choice)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chocolate chips (or chips of your choice)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add the pudding mix, eggs, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, mixing until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Using a cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Information
Yield
24Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 203Total Fat 10gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 4gCholesterol 36mgSodium 123mgCarbohydrates 26gFiber 1gSugar 16gProtein 2g
TastyFitnessRecipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although tastyfitnessrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Pudding cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert table, offering a unique texture and rich flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and enjoy the deliciousness of these cookies fresh from your oven!