Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

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Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies

Soft, Chewy, and Perfect Every Time

These Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies are a wonderful twist on a classic favorite. By adding instant vanilla pudding mix directly into the dough, the cookies turn out incredibly soft, moist, and tender, with a texture that stays perfect for days. If you love cookies that are thick, chewy, and filled with rich chocolate flavor, this recipe will quickly become one of your go-to options.

Unlike standard chocolate chip cookies that can become firm after cooling, these stay soft on the inside while holding their shape beautifully. They are simple enough for everyday baking yet impressive enough for sharing at gatherings, holidays, or weekend treats. Whether you are preparing a batch for the cookie jar or freezing dough for later, this recipe delivers consistent, bakery-quality results.

Why These Cookies Are So Good

Adding instant vanilla pudding mix is the key to the irresistible texture. The powder blends into the dough to create softness while enhancing the overall flavor. The cookies bake evenly, stay thick without spreading too much, and remain chewy for several days.

This recipe makes a generous batch, making it ideal for parties or for stocking up the freezer with dough balls. You can also switch the pudding flavor or chocolate type to create endless variations while using the same reliable base recipe.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper for even baking and easy cleanup.

2. Soften the Butter

Cut the butter into pieces and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Warm it in short intervals of 15 to 30 seconds. The butter should be very soft in the center with some melted liquid around the edges but not completely melted. This texture helps create thicker, softer cookies.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Beat for 1 to 2 minutes on medium speed until the mixture becomes creamy and well blended.

4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, beating just until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract. Avoid overmixing at this stage, as it can make the cookies spread too much.

5. Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Add the flour, instant vanilla pudding mix, salt, and baking soda. Mix on low speed until the dough comes together. If the dough feels too soft or sticky, add an extra tablespoon of flour at a time until the texture resembles soft playdough.

6. Add the Chocolate Chips

Fold the chocolate chips into the dough until they are evenly distributed throughout.

7. Shape and Bake

Roll the dough into balls using about 2 tablespoons of dough for each cookie. Place them on the prepared baking sheet with at least 2 to 3 inches of space between each ball.

Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, just until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain slightly soft. The cookies will continue setting as they cool.

8. Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container to maintain their soft texture.

Recipe Tips

  • Using instant pudding mix is essential. Cook-and-serve pudding will not give the same texture.
  • If your cookies spread too much, add a little more flour until the dough feels sturdier.
  • Try experimenting with different pudding flavors such as chocolate, butterscotch, or white chocolate.
  • The cookie dough freezes well. Freeze the dough balls on a tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. Bake directly from frozen, adding one to two extra minutes to the baking time.

Serving Ideas

These cookies pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk, a warm cup of coffee, or a mug of hot chocolate. They also make the perfect addition to dessert platters, holiday tins, and lunchbox treats.

Did You Make This Recipe?

If you try these Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies, I would love to know how they turned out. Share your experience in the comments or show your baked cookies in a photo. Your feedback helps others enjoy the recipe just as much.

 

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