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 all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped

Highlighted under: Baked Favorites

I absolutely love making Chocolate Pistachio Cookies—they're a delightful blend of rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios. Whenever I need a quick treat or a dessert for a gathering, these cookies never fail to impress! The nuttiness of pistachios really complements the chocolate, creating an irresistible flavor. Baking these cookies fills my kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that makes it hard not to sample them straight from the oven. I can’t wait to share this delicious recipe with you!

Created by

Ione Rutherford

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:37:36.557Z

When I first combined chocolate and pistachios, I was amazed at how well they harmonize. The soft texture of the cookies contrasts beautifully with the firm crunch of the nuts. I remember the first time I made this batch; I was skeptical about whether the flavors would work together, but one bite convinced me otherwise!

Another fun tip is to let the dough chill for about 30 minutes before baking. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. Trust me, the patience pays off when you take that first warm bite!

Why You'll Love These Cookies
The perfect marriage of rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios.
A chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more.
Ideal for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in.

Nuts and Chocolate: A Perfect Pairing

The combination of chocolate and pistachios is not just delicious; it also brings a wonderful contrast in texture. The creamy, semi-sweet chocolate melts beautifully, creating a rich base for each cookie, while the pistachios add a delightful crunch. Use high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor, as they will enhance the overall profile of your cookies. If you prefer a bit of extra flavor, opt for dark chocolate chips, which will create a deeper taste that pairs well with the nuttiness of the pistachios.

When chopped, pistachios not only contribute to the flavor but also add vibrant green flecks to the cookies, making them visually appealing. To ensure an even distribution, chop the pistachios finely, but not too small—about the size of a pea works well. This way, each bite has both chocolate and pistachio for a balanced taste experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, try toasting the pistachios lightly in a dry skillet for a few minutes before adding them to the dough; this will enhance their flavor and aroma.

Mixing and Baking Techniques

The creaming process is crucial for achieving the right texture in your cookies. When you cream the softened butter with the sugars, aim for a light and fluffy consistency—this typically takes about 2-3 minutes of mixing. The sugar granules help aerate the butter, which creates a chewy texture as the cookies bake. Make sure your butter is at room temperature for optimal results; if you forget to take it out in advance, you can cut it into small cubes and let it soften for about 15 minutes.

Baking time can vary depending on your oven, so it’s essential to keep an eye on the cookies as they approach the 10-minute mark. Look for golden edges with a slightly soft center; the cookies will continue cooking on the baking sheet after being removed from the oven. If the cookies spread too much, check your butter temperature or consider chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking to firm it up, helping to maintain a nice shape during baking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup pistachios, chopped

Make sure to measure accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your cookies:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown sugar and granulated sugar until smooth.

Add Egg and Vanilla

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chips and pistachios.

Scoop and Bake

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

Cool and Enjoy

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

Enjoy your freshly baked cookies with a glass of milk!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use high-quality chocolate chips and don't skip the chilling step for the dough.

Storing and Freezing Tips

Once your cookies have cooled, storing them properly can keep them fresh for longer. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay good for about a week. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them. Lay the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet for a few hours until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag. When properly stored, they can last up to three months in the freezer.

To thaw frozen cookies, simply take them out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before enjoying. If you prefer warm cookies, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will restore their gooey chocolate centers while keeping the pistachios crisp for that perfect bite.

Delicious Variations

If you want to give your chocolate pistachio cookies a twist, consider adding other mix-ins. Chopped dried fruit like apricots or cranberries can provide a sweet contrast to the rich chocolate. Alternatively, try incorporating a tablespoon of espresso powder into the dough for a mocha flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate. These additions will make each batch unique and delightful to enjoy.

For a touch of extra flavor, you can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sprinkle sea salt on top just before baking. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a sophisticated touch. These variations can make your cookie experience even more enjoyable, and are a fun way to experiment with the basic recipe!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Yes, you can substitute pistachios with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor.

→ How do I store the cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just scoop and place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag.

→ Are these cookies gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.