Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pudding Cookies

If you’re looking for the perfect cookie that balances rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pudding Cookies are the answer. This recipe combines chocolatey goodness, nutty pecan crunch, and the secret ingredient—pudding mix—that makes these cookies irresistibly soft. Here’s everything you need to know about making these crowd-pleasing treats.

Why You’ll Love Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pudding Cookies

1. Ultra-Soft Texture: The addition of pudding mix keeps these cookies tender and moist, even days after baking.
2. Flavorful Ingredients: Large chunks of chocolate provide bursts of sweetness, while toasted pecans add a delightful crunch.
3. Easy-to-Make Recipe: No special equipment or advanced skills are needed—just a love for baking.

Ingredients

To make these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 (3.4 oz) package vanilla or chocolate instant pudding mix
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups chocolate chunks (semi-sweet or dark)
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
   Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until creamy and smooth. Add the pudding mix and blend until well incorporated.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
   Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
5. Mix the Dough
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in chocolate chunks and toasted pecans.
6. Shape the Cookies
   Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cookies

• Chill the Dough: For thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Customize Mix-ins: Swap pecans for walnuts or add a handful of shredded coconut for extra texture.
• Storage: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully!

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cookies with a tall glass of milk, a cup of coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. They’re perfect for holiday cookie platters, potlucks, or simply indulging at home.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pudding Cookies bring a unique twist to classic cookies, making them a must-try for dessert lovers. Their combination of flavors and textures will have everyone asking for the recipe. Give them a try and elevate your cookie game to a whole new level!

Serving and Storage Tips for Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pudding Cookies

Serving Tips:

• Milk Pairing: These rich, decadent cookies pair perfectly with a cold glass of milk—whether it’s regular, almond, or oat milk.
• Coffee Companion: For a more sophisticated treat, serve them alongside a hot cup of coffee or espresso. The contrast of the warm beverage and the soft, chewy cookie enhances the flavors.
• Ice Cream Sandwich: Turn these cookies into a delicious dessert by placing a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent ice cream sandwich.
• Holiday Platters: These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, cookie swaps, or potlucks. Their unique flavor and texture make them stand out on any dessert platter.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their softness, place a slice of bread in the container—this helps to keep the cookies fresh.
• Freezing: You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Simply scoop the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen dough balls to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
• Frozen Cookies: If you have leftover baked cookies, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a storage bag. When ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their fresh-baked texture.

With these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure that your Chocolate Chunk Pecan Pudding Cookies stay delicious for days, or even longer!

1. Can I use a different type of pudding mix?
Yes! While vanilla pudding is the most common choice, you can experiment with different flavors like chocolate, butterscotch, or even cheesecake for a fun twist. Just make sure to use an instant pudding mix for the best texture.

2. Can I substitute the pecans with another nut or ingredient?
Absolutely! You can replace pecans with walnuts, almonds, or macadamia nuts. If you’re looking for a nut-free option, try using shredded coconut or even dried fruits like cranberries or raisins.

3. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much during baking?
If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This will help solidify the butter and prevent excessive spreading. Additionally, make sure you’re using the right amount of flour and not overmixing the dough.

4. Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes! You can freeze the dough by scooping it into balls and placing them on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or zip-top bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake for an extra 1-2 minutes.

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