Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies: An Italian-Inspired Twist on a Classic

Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are a delightful twist on the classic cookie, infusing the deliciously nutty flavor of pistachios into a beloved favorite. This Italian-inspired recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of sophistication and a unique flavor to their cookie repertoire.

Why Make This Recipe

If you love cookies that are soft, chewy, and packed with flavor, then these Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies are for you! They’re not your everyday chocolate chip cookies; the addition of pistachio cream gives them a rich, nutty taste that beautifully complements the sweet chocolate chunks. Perfect for sharing with friends, family gatherings, or even just as a treat for yourself, these cookies are a showstopper. Plus, they are simple to make and require only a few ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

How to Make Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

Creating these cookies is a fun and straightforward process. You’ll whisk together simple ingredients, combining the rich flavors of pistachio cream with classic cookie elements. Here’s how you can whip up this delectable treat.

Ingredients

• 8 tablespoons pistachio cream (plus extra for decorating)
• ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1⅓ cups (160g) all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup + 1 tablespoon (100g) chopped chocolate
• ⅓ cup (45g) crushed pistachios

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the room temperature butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale, which should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
3. Add the pistachio cream and mix until well combined; it’s okay if the mixture looks slightly grainy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the dough comes together smoothly, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly distributed.
6. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. It’s best to stop mixing when you still see a few streaks of flour.
7. Gently fold in the chopped chocolate and crushed pistachios, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Scoop 2-tablespoon portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
9. For a signature look, dollop a small amount of pistachio cream on top of each dough ball and swirl it gently with a toothpick.
10. Bake for 11-13 minutes until the edges are golden brown but the centers still look slightly underdone; they will continue to cook on the hot pan.
11. Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Success with Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature for a smoother batter that combines more easily.
• Don’t Overmix: When adding the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mix just until combined to ensure the cookies stay soft and chewy rather than tough.
• Chill the Dough: If you have the time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help the cookies retain their shape and enhance their flavor.
• Bake in Batches: If your oven isn’t large enough for both trays, bake them successively to prevent overcrowding.
• Don’t Overbake: The centers should look slightly underdone when you take them out. They will firm up as they cool on the baking sheet.

Flavor Variations for Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

• Add Citrus Zest: Incorporate a little lemon or orange zest into the dough for a refreshing, zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with pistachios.
• Swap Chocolate Types: Experiment with white, dark, or even milk chocolate for different sweetness levels and flavor profiles.
• Add a Dash of Spice: A pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon can provide a warm spice note that complements the nutty pistachios.
• Mix in Other Nuts: Try adding toasted almonds or hazelnuts along with or instead of the crushed pistachios for an extra crunch.
• Use Flavored Extracts: Instead of vanilla, consider almond or hazelnut extract for an even deeper nut flavor.

Serving Suggestions for Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve them warm with a glass of cold milk for a classic treat or pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for an afternoon snack. They also make a great addition to any dessert platter, offering a lovely contrast in texture and flavor alongside other baked goods. For something extra special, consider sandwiching a layer of pistachio buttercream between two cookies for a dessert twist that’s sure to impress.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy a cookie, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them into the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|————|————|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 90mg |

FAQ About Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

Can I use homemade pistachio cream for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade pistachio cream can add a personal touch and freshness to your cookies. Just make sure it’s blended to a smooth consistency for the best results.

How do I fix a runny cookie dough?

If your cookie dough seems too runny, it may be due to warmer ingredients or an incorrect measurement of flour. Try adding a tablespoon of all-purpose flour at a time until the dough reaches the desired consistency.

Can I substitute other types of nuts in this recipe?

Yes, you can! If you prefer different nuts, feel free to swap crushed pistachios with walnuts, almonds, or pecans. Each will bring a unique flavor and texture to the cookies.

How can I make these cookies healthier?

To make these cookies a bit healthier, consider swapping out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour, using less sugar, or substituting the unsalted butter with softened coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Make sure the mix contains xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients together.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown, but the centers still look a bit soft. They will firm as they cool, so it’s important not to overbake them.

Final Thoughts

Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies offer a delightful and unique spin on traditional cookies that will charm anyone who tries them. With their nutty flavor and chewy texture complemented by rich chocolate chunks, these cookies are sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just for yourself, this recipe is simple, rewarding, and guaranteed to impress. Enjoy the delightful fusion of flavors and the joy of baking these scrumptious treats!

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