Soft and gooey Pistachio Cream Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the unique flavor of pistachio. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party or simply enjoying a cozy night in. The standout feature of these cookies is the surprise pistachio cream filling that creates a warm, gooey center. Each bite offers a balanced blend of sweet and savory flavors that will leave you craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pistachio cream and chocolate creates a rich taste experience.
- Perfect Texture: Soft, chewy cookies with a gooey center make for a delightful treat.
- Simple Steps: This recipe is easy to follow, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: Great for holidays, birthdays, or just because you deserve something sweet!
- Impressive Presentation: These cookies look beautiful and will wow your friends and family.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cookie scoop
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Freezer-safe plate
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients properly without any mess.
- Cookie scoop: Helps create evenly sized cookie dough balls for consistent baking.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
Ingredients
For the Pistachio Cream Filling
- 150 g pistachio cream spread
For the Cookie Dough
- 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
- 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 your spread is thick enough, scoop it out into small dollops. Freeze for at least 1 hour or overnight until solid. If using the sheet method, cut it into squares when frozen.
Step 2: Prep Your Workspace
Line a cutting board or plate with parchment paper to chill the cookie dough on. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare Flour Mixture
In a small bowl, stir together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 4: Mix Butter Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until well combined. Add the egg and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture. Whisk gently until just combined; some flour patches should remain visible.
Step 6: Fold in Chocolate and Pistachios
Add chopped chocolate and pistachios to the dough. Use a spatula to fold these ingredients into the mixture until just combined.
Step 7: Scoop Cookie Dough
Use a 4-tablespoon cookie scoop to portion out cookie dough 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
Flatten each dough ball into a round shape using your fingers. Place a frozen square or dollop of pistachio cream in the center and seal around it.
Step 10: Add Toppings
Place stuffed cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheet with at least 2 inches between each one. Press additional chocolate chunks, pistachios, and frozen pistachio cream on top.
Step 11: Bake
Bake cookies for about 11-12 minutes or until edges are set but still soft in the center. Immediately sprinkle with flaky salt after removing from the oven. Allow cookies to cool on the sheet for five minutes before enjoying them warm!
With these simple steps, you’ll have delicious Pistachio Cream Cookies ready to impress!
How to Serve Pistachio Cream Cookies
Pistachio cream cookies are delightfully rich and flavorful. They can be enjoyed in numerous ways, making them a versatile treat for any occasion.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
- A warm cup of coffee enhances the nutty flavors of the cookies.
- Herbal teas offer a refreshing contrast that complements the sweetness.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Top a cookie with a scoop of vanilla or pistachio ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
- Create an ice cream sandwich for a fun twist on a classic treat.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries provide a tart balance to the sweet cookie.
- Slices of banana are also great, adding creaminess alongside the pistachio flavor.
Drizzle with Chocolate
- A light drizzle of melted chocolate adds an extra layer of richness.
- Consider using dark chocolate for a more intense flavor contrast.
Enjoy Warm with Flaky Salt
- Serving the cookies warm with flaky salt enhances the sweet and salty combination.
- It’s perfect for those who love that gourmet touch!
Create a Cookie Platter
- Mix these cookies with other varieties for an exciting dessert platter.
- Include different flavors to please every palate at gatherings.
How to Perfect Pistachio Cream Cookies
Making the ideal pistachio cream cookies requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions to elevate your baking game.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your egg and butter are at room temperature helps create a smoother dough that mixes evenly.
- Don’t overmix: When combining flour and wet ingredients, mix just until combined. This keeps your cookies tender and soft.
- Chill the dough: Chilling the dough allows it to firm up, which helps maintain shape during baking and results in chewier cookies.
- Experiment with nuts: If desired, try adding almonds or hazelnuts along with pistachios for extra texture and taste.
- Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies; they should be slightly underbaked for gooey centers. Adjust timing based on your oven’s performance.
- Store properly: To keep them fresh, store in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for longer shelf life.
Best Side Dishes for Pistachio Cream Cookies
Pistachio cream cookies pair wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile. Here are some delightful options to consider:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness to counterbalance the rich cookies.
- Cheese Platter: Offer soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese alongside crackers for a savory contrast.
- Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: These sweet treats complement the cookie’s flavors while adding elegance to your dessert spread.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a creamy, crunchy addition that balances sweetness.
- Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts provides crunch and pairs beautifully with the pistachio flavor in the cookies.
- Mini Cheesecakes: Bite-sized cheesecakes create a deliciously rich option that pairs well without overwhelming flavors.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over individual servings adds decadence and depth to your dessert experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: Light yet rich, this dessert offers a luxurious finish that complements the nutty notes of the cookies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pistachio Cream Cookies can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the freezing step: Failing to freeze the pistachio cream can lead to melted filling during baking. Always freeze it for at least one hour.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using imprecise measurements can impact the texture and taste. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy.
- Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined to keep them soft and chewy.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature may cause cookies to spread too much or remain undercooked. Always preheat your oven properly.
- Neglecting to chill cookie dough: Chilling the dough is essential for thick cookies that hold their shape. Don’t skip this step.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Pistachio Cream Cookies
- Place baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pistachio Cream Cookies
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat cookies for about 5 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds on medium power for a quick warm-up.
- Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, covered, for a couple of minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Pistachio Cream Cookies.
What makes Pistachio Cream Cookies so special?
The combination of soft cookie dough with rich pistachio cream creates a delightful surprise inside every bite, making them irresistible.
Can I use other nut creams instead of pistachio?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with almond or hazelnut cream for different flavors while maintaining the same method.
How do I know if my Pistachio Cream Cookies are done baking?
Look for set edges and a soft center. They should have a golden brown color around the edges while still being slightly underbaked in the center.
What is the best way to store leftover Pistachio Cream Cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.
Can I customize these cookies?
Yes! You can add different mix-ins like dried fruits or swap chocolate types to suit your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
Pistachio Cream Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Their gooey centers and rich flavors make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients and enjoy these delightful treats with family and friends!
Pistachio Cream Cookies
Indulge in the delightful experience of Pistachio Cream Cookies, where soft, chewy chocolate cookies hide a luscious pistachio cream filling. These irresistible treats are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy evening at home. Each bite offers a unique blend of sweet and nutty flavors with a gooey center that will have you reaching for seconds. With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is suitable for bakers of all skill levels. Treat yourself and your loved ones to these gourmet delights that are sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 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)
- 100 g brown sugar
- 50 g granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 100 g semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped)
- 50 g shelled pistachios (chopped)
- Flaky salt (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Freeze the pistachio cream spread on parchment-lined plate for at least one hour until solid.
- Prepare the flour mixture by whisking together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a bowl.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter with brown and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla; whisk until combined.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture and mix gently until just incorporated.
- Fold in chocolate and chopped pistachios.
- Scoop dough onto parchment-lined plate and chill for about one hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Flatten dough balls, place frozen pistachio cream in the center, and seal around it.
- Bake for about 11-12 minutes until edges are set but centers remain soft. Sprinkle with flaky salt immediately after baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie (40g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
