Chocolate Chip Cookies with Pudding Recipe
If you’ve ever wondered how to create cookies that are irresistibly soft, chewy, and packed with chocolatey goodness, you are going to fall head over heels for this Chocolate Chip Cookies with Pudding Recipe. The addition of instant pudding mix is an absolute game-changer, turning the classic chocolate chip cookie into something so tender and moist, it practically melts in your mouth. These cookies have the perfect balance of sweet, buttery richness and a delightful texture that keeps you reaching for one more. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just craving a special treat, this recipe will become your new go-to for homemade cookies that feel like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about this recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are. Each item plays a vital role, from creating the perfect chewy texture to delivering that rich chocolate flavor you love. Plus, they’re all pantry staples or easy to find, making this cookie recipe a breeze to bake anytime the craving hits.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to your cookies, ensuring they hold together beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise just enough and contributes to a tender crumb.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture, creating that melt-in-your-mouth sensation.
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like sweetness and keeps cookies chewy.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar: Adds the right amount of sweetness and helps with that slight crisp on the edges.
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix: The secret ingredient for unbelievably soft and moist cookies.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses lovely, warm flavor that complements the chocolate perfectly.
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips: Loads of chocolate goodness in every bite.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional): Adds delightful crunch and a nutty depth if you like some texture contrast.
How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookies with Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper—this ensures easy cookie removal and cleaning. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. The goal here is to distribute these dry ingredients evenly so every cookie bakes uniformly.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, take your softened butter and beat it with both the brown and granulated sugars until the mixture is light, creamy, and fluffy. This step incorporates tiny air bubbles that help with texture and creates a perfect base for your cookies.
Step 3: Add the Instant Pudding Mix
Beat in the instant vanilla pudding mix right after creaming the butter and sugars. This is the magic moment where your cookies begin their transformation into soft, tender delights. Mixing until fully incorporated ensures every bite benefits from that moist, pudding-enhanced texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add your eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to maintain a smooth, well-mixed dough. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that inviting aroma and flavor that goes hand-in-hand with chocolate and baked goods.
Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry flour mixture into the wet mixture, mixing just until everything comes together. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, so be gentle here to keep the softness intact.
Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips and Optional Walnuts
Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts if you’re using them. The chips add pockets of melty sweetness, while walnuts introduce a lovely crunch and a richer flavor profile.
Step 7: Shape and Bake the Cookies
Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough spaced about 2 inches apart onto your prepared baking sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the centers look set but not dry. This precise timing ensures the perfect chew without overbaking.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the pan for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This short cooldown lets them firm up just enough without losing that irresistible soft center.
How to Serve Chocolate Chip Cookies with Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
For a touch of elegance, sprinkle a few sea salt flakes on freshly baked cookies to enhance the chocolate flavor. You can also add a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for a pretty finish that elevates presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
These cookies shine alongside a cold glass of milk, but pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a dreamy dessert combo. If you’re feeling indulgent, a cup of rich coffee or hot chocolate perfectly complements their chewy sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Chocolate Chip Cookies with Pudding Recipe into a party favorite by stacking them into a cookie tower or sandwiching them with creamy frosting or nut butter for cookie sandwiches. You can also gently warm them and serve with a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious for up to 5 days, making them perfect for batch baking and enjoying throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, freeze your baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a sealed freezer bag. They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months and thawed at room temperature for easy, ready-to-eat treats anytime.
Reheating
Warm your cookies slightly before serving by popping them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes—this brings back their freshly baked softness and enhances that pudding-moist texture beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use chocolate or butterscotch pudding instead of vanilla?
Absolutely! Swapping in chocolate or butterscotch instant pudding adds a fun twist to the flavor profile and keeps the cookies just as soft and chewy.
What if I don’t have walnuts? Can I skip them?
Yes, you can leave out the walnuts if you prefer or have allergies. The cookies are still deliciously soft and chocolatey without them. You could also substitute with pecans, macadamia nuts, or your favorite mix-ins.
Why does the instant pudding mix make the cookies softer?
The pudding mix contains ingredients like starch and additional sugar that hold moisture in the cookie dough, resulting in a softer and more tender cookie texture compared to traditional recipes.
How long do these cookies last once baked?
Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies stay fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature. Beyond that, freezing is your best bet to preserve their texture and flavor.
Can I make the dough ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! You can refrigerate the dough for up to 48 hours before baking. Chilling the dough may enhance the flavors and slightly improve the texture as well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a batch of homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies with Pudding Recipe that brings smiles all around. Whether it’s a casual snack or a highlight of dessert time, these cookies offer an unbeatable combination of flavor and texture that keeps everyone coming back for more. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make your kitchen smell like a sweet bakery filled with love and warmth.
Print
Chocolate Chip Cookies with Pudding Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 36 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy these soft and chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies made extra tender with the addition of instant vanilla pudding mix. Perfectly balanced with semi-sweet chocolate chips and optional walnuts, these classic American cookies bake up with a golden edge and a moist center, ideal for dessert or an anytime treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined, setting this mixture aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: Using a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the cookie dough.
- Add Instant Pudding: Beat in the instant vanilla pudding mix thoroughly until it is fully incorporated, contributing to the cookies’ softness and chewiness.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cookies.
- Add Chocolate Chips and Walnuts: Fold in the semisweet chocolate chips and optional chopped walnuts evenly throughout the dough to distribute flavors and textures.
- Form and Bake Cookies: Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to prevent spreading together. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the cookie edges turn golden and centers look set.
- Cool Cookies: Let the baked cookies cool on the pan for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they firm up without losing moisture.
Notes
- The instant pudding mix keeps the cookies extra soft and chewy.
- You can use chocolate or butterscotch pudding mix as a flavorful twist.
- Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the cookies in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
