Pistachio Cream Cookies

Soft and gooey chocolate chip cookies stuffed with pistachio cream in the middle, these Pistachio Cream Cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just indulging in a sweet moment at home, these cookies stand out with their rich flavors and warm textures. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the ultimate experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible flavor: The combination of chocolate and pistachio creates a unique taste that pleases the palate.
• Perfectly gooey centers: Biting into these cookies reveals a soft, creamy pistachio filling that enhances each bite.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, baking these cookies is enjoyable for everyone.
• Versatile for occasions: Great for parties, gatherings, or a cozy night in; they fit perfectly into any setting.
• Customizable toppings: Feel free to add extra chocolate or nuts on top for added texture and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin baking your Pistachio Cream Cookies, gather your tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Baking sheet: Provides a flat surface for even baking and easy transfer of cookies.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious Pistachio Cream Cookies:

For the Cookie Dough:

• 150 g pistachio cream spread
• 180 g all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 115 g unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 100 g brown sugar
• 50 g granulated sugar
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Mix-ins:

• 100 g semi-sweet or dark chocolate (roughly chopped)
• 50 g unsalted pistachios (shelled and roughly chopped)
• Flaky salt (for sprinkling)

How to Make Pistachio Cream Cookies

Step 1: Freeze Pistachio Spread

• Line a plate with parchment paper.
• Pour the pistachio spread on top and spread it into a thick sheet.
• If preferred, scoop it into small dollops with a spoon.
• Freeze for at least 1 hour or overnight until solid.
• If using the sheet method, cut into squares once frozen.

Step 2: Prep Chilling Surface

• Line a cutting board or plate with parchment paper to chill your cookie dough on.

Step 3: Prepare Flour Mixture

• In a small bowl, stir together:
• 180 g all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Step 4: Create Butter Mixture

• In a large mixing bowl, combine:
• 115 g unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
• 100 g brown sugar
• 50 g granulated sugar
• Whisk until combined.
• Add:
• 1 large egg (room temperature)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whisk until smooth and thick.

Step 5: Combine Flour and Butter Mixtures

• Add the flour mixture into the butter mixture.
• Whisk until just barely combined, leaving some flour patches visible.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Pistachios

• Add:
• 100 g semi-sweet or dark chocolate (roughly chopped)
• 50 g unsalted pistachios (shelled and roughly chopped)
• Use a spatula to fold everything together until just combined.

Step 7: Scoop Cookie Dough

• Use a 4-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out dough balls onto your lined board.
• Chill in the fridge for about 1 hour or until firm.

Step 8: Preheat Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 9: Stuff Cookie Dough

• Press each dough ball into a flat round.
• Place about three to four squares of frozen pistachio cream in the middle.
• Seal the cookie dough around the filling.

Step 10: Add Toppings

• Place stuffed cookie dough balls on your lined baking sheet, leaving about two inches between them.
• Press extra chocolate chunks, pistachios, and frozen pistachio cream chunks on top of each cookie dough ball.

Step 11: Bake Cookies

• Bake for about 11-12 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft.
• Immediately sprinkle with flaky salt.

Let cool on the baking sheet for five minutes before enjoying warm!

How to Serve Pistachio Cream Cookies

Pistachio Cream Cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be served in various creative ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your cookie experience.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Serve these cookies alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.
• Enjoy them with herbal tea for a light and refreshing pairing.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert.
• Try pairing pistachio ice cream for a cohesive flavor experience.

Dessert Platter

• Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter with fresh fruits like berries or sliced apples.
• Add nuts and chocolate pieces for an appealing touch.

Gift Packaging

• Stack the cookies in a decorative tin or box for a homemade gift.
• Include a handwritten recipe card for a personal touch.

Warm Up Before Serving

• Microwave the cookies for a few seconds to enhance their gooey center before serving.
• This warms up the pistachio filling, making it even more irresistible.

How to Perfect Pistachio Cream Cookies

For the best results, follow these tips to ensure your Pistachio Cream Cookies turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your egg and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the cookie dough for at least one hour before baking to help maintain structure and prevent spreading.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining the flour and butter mixtures, mix just until combined to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
• Watch Baking Time: Bake until the edges are set but the centers remain soft; this ensures that gooey texture we love.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add extra chocolate chunks or different nuts on top before baking for added flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pistachio Cream Cookies

Enhance your dessert experience by pairing Pistachio Cream Cookies with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balance to the rich flavors of the cookies.

2. Vanilla Yogurt
   The creaminess of vanilla yogurt pairs wonderfully, providing a cool contrast to warm cookies.

3. Chocolate Dipping Sauce
   Melted chocolate sauce offers an additional layer of indulgence when dipped.

4. Nutty Granola
   Crunchy granola made with nuts can provide texture that complements the softness of the cookies.

5. Coconut Whipped Cream
   Light and airy coconut whipped cream enhances flavors while adding a tropical twist.

6. Almond Milk Smoothie
   A smoothie made with almond milk, bananas, and spinach offers a nutritious drink that balances the sweetness of the cookies.

7. Cheese Platter
   Select mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to contrast with sweet flavors, creating an interesting platter experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Pistachio Cream Cookies can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can hinder your results.

• Overmixing the Dough: Mixing the dough too much can result in tough cookies. Combine ingredients until just incorporated for a softer texture.
• Not Chilling the Dough: Skipping the chilling step can lead to cookies that spread too much. Chill your dough for at least an hour to maintain shape.
• Using Warm Butter: Using melted butter that’s still warm can affect the cookie structure. Allow it to cool before mixing with sugars.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may lead to undercooked or overcooked cookies. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can ruin the balance of flavors and textures. Use a kitchen scale for precision when possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Pistachio Cream Cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pistachio Cream Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer; then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pistachio Cream Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place cookies in a pan on low heat for a few minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pistachio Cream Cookies?

Pistachio Cream Cookies are soft cookies filled with creamy pistachio spread, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.

How do I make my Pistachio Cream Cookies chewier?

To achieve chewier cookies, try using more brown sugar than granulated sugar, and ensure you don’t overbake them.

Can I customize my Pistachio Cream Cookies?

Absolutely! You can add different nuts, swap chocolate types, or even include dried fruits to personalize your cookies.

How do I store leftover Pistachio Cream Cookies?

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Pistachio Cream Cookies are a delicious treat that combines gooey centers with delightful flavors. Their versatility allows you to customize them with various mix-ins, making them perfect for any occasion. Try baking these scrumptious cookies today!