Chocolate Pistachio Cookies

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 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; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup chopped pistachios; 1 cup chocolate chips

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I absolutely love making Chocolate Pistachio Cookies whenever I am in the mood for something sweet yet unique. These cookies perfectly blend rich chocolate and crunchy pistachios, creating a delicious treat that never fails to impress. The first time I made them, I was amazed at how easily the flavors come together, and each bite offers a satisfying contrast in texture. Whether for a holiday party or a quiet evening at home, these cookies bring joy to every occasion I bake them for.

Created by

Arabelle Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-13T07:25:36.451Z

When I first experimented with combining chocolate and pistachios, it was a match made in dessert heaven. Each ingredient complements the other beautifully; the nuttiness of the pistachios elevates the rich chocolate flavor. I found that using roasted, salted pistachios adds an unexpected dimension to the sweetness of the dough, making every bite phenomenally delightful.

To achieve the perfect cookie texture, I recommend chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies retain their shape and become wonderfully chewy on the inside while slightly crisp on the outside. Trust me; it's worth the wait!

        Why You'll Love These Cookies
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with crunchy pistachios
Chewy texture with a delightful crispiness
Perfect for any occasion, from festive gatherings to casual snacking

      

The Role of Each Ingredient

Understanding the purpose of each ingredient in Chocolate Pistachio Cookies can elevate your baking. The unsalted butter is essential for achieving the right texture—creamy and soft, it allows for a chewy consistency and rich flavor. Meanwhile, the combination of granulated and brown sugars not only sweetens the cookies but also adds a depth of flavor; the brown sugar contributes moisture and a slight caramel note, which beautifully complements the chocolate and pistachios.

When it comes to the dry ingredients, all-purpose flour provides the structure, while cocoa powder adds that deep chocolate essence. It’s crucial to use unsweetened cocoa powder to balance the sweetness from the sugars properly. The baking soda gives the cookies a light lift, so they aren’t overly dense, while the salt enhances all the flavors—don’t skip this ingredient, as a touch of salt makes a significant difference!

Tips for Perfecting Your Cookies

Chilling the dough is a vital step in this recipe. By refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes, you not only enhance the flavors as they meld but also help the cookies maintain their shape while baking. This prevents them from spreading too thin, resulting in a chewy, delicious cookie with the perfect balance of softness and structure. If you're short on time, even a 15-minute chill can help, but I recommend sticking with the full 30 minutes for the best results.

When baking, keep an eye on the cookies as they can go from perfectly done to overbaked quickly. Ideal baking time is about 10 minutes at 350°F. You'll know they're ready when the edges are firm and just lightly golden, while the centers still look soft and underbaked. Allowing them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack helps them set without losing that delightful chewy center.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start baking to ensure a smooth process.

Ingredients for Chocolate Pistachio Cookies

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

Make sure to measure ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your perfect Chocolate Pistachio Cookies.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla. Combine the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt; gradually blend into the creamed mixture. Finally, fold in the pistachios and chocolate chips.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 10 minutes, until edges are set but the centers are still soft. Allow to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.

Enjoy your fresh-baked cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea!

Pro Tips

For richer flavor, use dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet. You can also experiment with adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking for an extra flavor boost.

Variations and Add-Ins

While the classic combination of chocolate and pistachios is irresistible, feel free to play with mix-ins to craft your ideal cookie. Try swapping out the pistachios for walnuts or macadamia nuts for a different texture and flavor profile. You can also incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or cherries to add a tartness that nicely balances the sweetness of the chocolate and sugars.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of espresso powder to the dough. It enhances the chocolate flavor without making the cookies taste like coffee. Another delightful twist is to drizzle melted white chocolate over cooled cookies for a pretty finish and additional sweetness.

Storage and Freezing

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to enjoy them for an extended period, freezing is an excellent option. After the cookies have fully cooled, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy a cookie, just let it thaw at room temperature, or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that soft, fresh-baked warmth.

If you find yourself with leftover dough, it freezes well too. Shape the dough into individual cookie portions, place them on a baking sheet to freeze for a couple of hours, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can bake a fresh batch whenever the craving hits without having to make the dough from scratch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use unsweetened chocolate instead of cocoa powder?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the sugar in the recipe to maintain the desired sweetness.

→ How should I store leftover cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute other nuts for pistachios?

Absolutely! Almonds or walnuts would work well if you prefer a different nut flavor.

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

If the dough is stickier than expected, chill it a bit longer before baking to make it easier to handle.