Chocolate Pistachio Cookies

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chocolate chips; 1 cup pistachios, chopped and toasted

Highlighted under: Oven Recipes

I absolutely love making these Chocolate Pistachio Cookies because they combine rich chocolate and nutty pistachios in a perfect harmony. Each time I bake them, the aroma fills my kitchen and brings back the fondest memories of baking with my grandmother. These cookies are not only delicious, but their combination of flavors and textures creates an indulgence that is hard to resist. With a soft center and a slight crunch from the pistachios, these cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion.

Created by

Rosalyn Whitfield

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:17:35.494Z

When I first experimented with this cookie recipe, the idea was to blend two of my favorite ingredients - chocolate and pistachios. The results were so good that they quickly became a staple in my baking repertoire. It's funny how the simplest combinations often yield the most delightful treats!

Another tip I learned through trial and error is the importance of toasting the pistachios before adding them to the dough. This step enhances their flavor and adds a nice crunch that pairs perfectly with the smooth chocolate. Trust me, once you try it, you won't go back!

Why You'll Love These Cookies
Decadent chocolate flavor with a savory crunch from pistachios
Soft and chewy texture that's irresistible
Perfect for a cozy evening or as gifts for loved ones

The Key to Perfect Cookies

Achieving the ideal cookie texture is all about the balance between wet and dry ingredients. In this recipe, the softened butter plays a crucial role, as it not only contributes to the cookie's rich flavor but also impacts its moisture content. Make sure your butter is at room temperature, as this allows for better incorporation with the sugars, resulting in a creamy mixture that's fluffy and light. If you're short on time, you can microwave the butter in short bursts, but be careful not to melt it!

Another important aspect is the creaming process. When you cream the butter and sugars together, you want to mix until the mixture appears significantly lighter in color and fluffy in texture. This aeration helps the cookies rise during baking, creating that soft, chewy center you crave. Don't rush this process; aim for about 3-5 minutes of mixing on medium speed. If your mixture seems overly dense, it's a sign you might need to cream it longer.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of cocoa powder and chocolate chips elevates the chocolate flavor in these cookies significantly. Using high-quality chocolate chips can greatly enhance the taste, so look for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips. If you're feeling adventurous, consider mixing in some white chocolate chips for a delightful contrast. Just keep an eye on the overall sweetness, as the white chocolate can enhance it.

Pistachios are the star nut in this recipe; their unique savory flavor complements the rich chocolate beautifully. If you find yourself without pistachios, feel free to substitute with toasted almonds or walnuts, though the flavor profile will differ slightly. Just be sure to toast whichever nuts you choose to unlock their full flavor potential, enhancing the overall experience of the cookie.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started on these delicious cookies:

Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chocolate chips
1 cup pistachios, chopped and toasted

Once you have everything ready, you'll be just a few steps away from enjoying these delicious cookies!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Chocolate Pistachio Cookies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Fold in Chocolate Chips and Pistachios

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and toasted pistachios until evenly distributed.

Scoop and Bake

Using a cookie scoop, drop balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Once they are cooled, store these cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkle with sea salt before baking for added flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These Chocolate Pistachio Cookies are incredibly versatile when it comes to make-ahead options. You can prepare the cookie dough in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 72 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and improves the overall texture. When you're ready to bake, simply scoop and bake directly from the fridge, adding an extra minute or two to the baking time if the dough is particularly cold.

Storing the baked cookies is also easy. Once cooled completely, keep them in an airtight container to maintain their softness. They can last for about a week at room temperature or up to two weeks if kept in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing them; wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature for a perfect treat anytime you're craving something sweet!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These cookies serve wonderfully on their own, but if you're looking to impress, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience. The warmth of the cookies combined with the cold creaminess of ice cream creates an irresistible texture contrast that is truly indulgent. You can also serve them alongside a rich mocha or cappuccino for a cozy treat during a gathering.

For a festive twist, try adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough or some crushed peppermint candy canes during the holiday season. This adds a refreshing touch that complements the chocolate beautifully. Plus, you can experiment with different nut varieties or even add a hint of chili powder for a spicy kick. The flexibility of this cookie recipe means you can customize it to your taste, ensuring every batch is a unique delight!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, you can substitute other nuts like walnuts or pecans if you prefer.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before baking.

→ What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan alternative.