Chocolate Pistachio Cookies

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 1 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking these Chocolate Pistachio Cookies, especially when I'm in the mood for something indulgently sweet yet nutty. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios gives a wonderful texture and flavor that is hard to resist. Each bite is an experience, and what I love most is how the aromas fill my kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. These cookies have become a go-to treat for gatherings and cozy nights in, and I can't wait to share them with you!

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:28:13.363Z

When I first made these Chocolate Pistachio Cookies, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The melted chocolate and crunchy pistachios were a match made in heaven, and I found myself sneaking a few bites straight from the cooling rack! I also learned that letting the dough chill for a bit before baking really enhances the flavors, allowing the chocolate to marry beautifully with the nutty pistachios.

I've tried different variations, but this combination never fails to impress. If you want to elevate your cookie game, don't forget to sprinkle a little sea salt on top before baking. It takes the sweetness to a whole new level and creates a flavor explosion. You'll definitely want to make these more than once!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Decadent chocolate flavor complemented by crunchy pistachios
Unique texture that combines chewiness and crunch
Perfect for gifting or as a delightful personal treat

      

The Role of Pistachios

Pistachios not only add a delightful crunch but also bring a subtle nuttiness that perfectly balances the sweetness of the chocolate. When incorporating the pistachios, ensure they are roughly chopped rather than finely ground; this preserves their texture and allows you to enjoy their unique flavor with each bite. If you're looking for a more intense nutty flavor, consider toasting the pistachios briefly before adding them to the dough—this enhances their natural oils and gives the cookies an extra layer of depth.

If you find yourself short on pistachios, almonds or walnuts can serve as effective substitutes without compromising the cookie's integrity. Just remember to chop them to a similar size as the pistachios, so they blend well into the dough. However, if you or your guests have nut allergies, you can skip the nuts altogether and double the chocolate chips for a truly indulgent treat.

Chilling the Dough

Chilling the cookie dough is a crucial step that helps the flavors meld together and improves the cookie's texture. By refrigerating for at least 30 minutes, the dough will firm up, which prevents the cookies from spreading excessively during baking—resulting in thicker, chewier cookies. If you're short on time, chilling for a minimum of 15 minutes can still provide better texture, but the longer, the better.

To make your baking experience even easier, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it. Simply scoop the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freeze until solid, and then transfer the scoops to a Ziplock bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Baking Tips for Perfection

Achieving the perfect cookie is all about monitoring your baking time closely. The cookies should be baked until the edges are set and start to turn golden brown, while the centers may look slightly soft. This visual cue ensures the cookies retain that chewy texture, which is essential for a delightful bite. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack—this allows them to finish setting up while still warm.

For added flair, consider sprinkling a pinch of sea salt on top right before baking. This contrast enhances the chocolate flavor and adds an exciting crunch. Additionally, if you prefer your cookies more cake-like, you can adjust the flour-to-cocoa powder ratio slightly. A bit more flour will result in a softer texture, while sticking close to the original ratios will give you that chewy delight you’re craving.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cream the Butter and Sugars

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

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Combine Mixtures

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

Add Chocolate Chips and Pistachios

Fold in the chocolate chips and chopped pistachios until evenly distributed.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat Oven

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

Scoop and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

Serving Suggestions

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding orange zest to the dough or experimenting with different nuts like walnuts or macadamia nuts.

Serving Suggestions

These Chocolate Pistachio Cookies are versatile enough to be served on their own or dressed up for special occasions. You can enjoy them with a glass of milk, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. If you're hosting a gathering, consider assembling a dessert platter with these cookies alongside other sweet treats, such as brownie bites or mini cupcakes, to appeal to various palates.

For a festive touch, you can drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed pistachios. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also introduces an extra layer of sweetness and texture, making them perfect for holiday celebrations or gifting.

Storage and Freshness

To keep these cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to maintain their texture, consider placing a slice of bread in the container; it helps absorb moisture that could otherwise make the cookies soft. If you prefer an even longer shelf life, these cookies can be frozen in a similar fashion to the dough. Just ensure they are fully cooled and arranged in a single layer before storing them in a freezer-safe container or bag.

If you're planning to serve them at a later date, simply let the cookies thaw at room temperature, or, if you're eager for a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for just a few seconds. These methods keep the cookies tasting fresh and delightful, making every batch enjoyable long after baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute pistachios with walnuts, almonds, or any of your favorite nuts.

→ How do I store the cookies?

Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?

Yes, using dark chocolate will give you a richer flavor; just adjust the sweetness to your liking.

→ What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough feels too sticky, chill it for a bit longer, and it should be easier to handle.