Name: Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Italian
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

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

Baking is a wonderful way to explore culinary traditions, and with this recipe for pistachio cream chocolate chip cookies, you can enjoy an Italian-inspired twist on a timeless favorite. Combining the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with the classic allure of chocolate chips, these cookies are sure to delight everyone in your family or circle of friends.

Why Make This Recipe

If you love cookies, there’s a good chance you adore chocolate chip cookies. But why settle for the ordinary when you can elevate your baking with something extraordinary? These pistachio cream chocolate chip cookies bring a unique flavor profile that blends sweet, nutty, and chocolatey goodness into a single, scrumptious bite. The addition of pistachio cream not only enhances the taste but adds a delightful creaminess that contrasts perfectly with the crunchy pieces of chopped pistachios and chocolate. This recipe is simple enough for bakers of all skill levels, making it an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy night at home or a festive gathering.

How to Make Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

Creating these delightful cookies is straightforward and fun! Follow these easy steps and enjoy the rhythm of mixing, baking, and the tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen.

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

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the room temperature butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy and pale, which should take around 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
Add the pistachio cream and mix until well combined; don’t worry if the mixture looks slightly grainy—it’s perfectly normal!
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until the dough comes together smoothly, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly distributed.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined. It’s important not to overmix, so stop mixing when you still see a few streaks of flour.
Gently fold in the chopped chocolate and crushed pistachios, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
Scoop 2-tablespoon portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there’s about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
For a signature look, dollop a small amount of pistachio cream on top of each dough ball and swirl it gently with a toothpick.
Bake for 11-13 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown while the centers still look slightly underdone. They will continue cooking on the hot pan.
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for Success with Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is at room temperature to achieve a fluffy, creamy texture when creaming with the sugars.
Don’t Overmix: It’s tempting to keep mixing, but overmixing can result in tough cookies. Stop when the flour is just combined.
Chill the Dough: If you have the time, chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can help improve the texture and flavor of the cookies.
Add More Nuts: Feel free to experiment with the amount of crushed pistachios; if you’re a fan, adding a bit more can enhance that nutty flavor.
Even Cookie Size: Use a cookie scoop for uniformly sized cookies, ensuring even baking throughout.

Flavor Variations for Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

Dark Chocolate: Swap out the standard chocolate chips for dark chocolate chunks for a richer taste.
White Chocolate: Wow your guests by using white chocolate chips in place of traditional chocolate for a contrasting sweetness.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing twist that plays well with the pistachio cream.
Spice It Up: Include a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for added warmth and depth.

Serving Suggestions for Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

These cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be served in various delightful ways:

Pair with a glass of your favorite milk or plant-based milk for a classic pairing.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Create a dessert platter with an assortment of cookies, brownies, and mini pastries for entertaining.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

To keep your pistachio cream chocolate chip cookies fresh:

Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For best results, layer them between parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Freezing: You can freeze cookie dough balls before baking. Simply portion them and place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to bake, you can bake them directly from the freezer—add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|———————–|—————|
| Calories | 150 |
| Protein | 2g |
| Carbohydrates | 19g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 75mg |

FAQ About Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies

Can I use other nut creams instead of pistachio cream?

Absolutely! While the pistachio cream adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with almond or hazelnut cream for a deliciously different twist.

What type of chocolate is best for these cookies?

Milk chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate are popular choices, but using dark chocolate can add a richer flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the cookie.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! You can easily make these cookies gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

How can I tell when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers still appear slightly underdone. They will continue to cook once removed from the oven. Be cautious not to overbake.

Is it possible to make these cookies vegan?

You can attempt a vegan version by substituting the butter with a plant-based butter and using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) instead of the egg. The results may vary, but it can be a fun experiment!

Can I add other mix-ins, like dried fruit or shredded coconut?

Of course! Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite dried fruits, nuts, or even shredded coconut to the dough. Just make sure not to overload the batter to maintain the right cookie structure.

Final Thoughts

Baking pistachio cream chocolate chip cookies is an enjoyable activity that results in a delicious treat that everyone will love. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can transform an ordinary cookie recipe into something truly special. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the oven or sharing with loved ones, these cookies are sure to make lasting memories. Happy baking, and enjoy your delightful Italian-inspired twist on a classic!

Pistachio Cream Chocolate Chip Cookies