Chocolate Pistachio Cookies

Name: Chocolate Pistachio Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup (50g) cocoa powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup (75g) chopped pistachios; 1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I absolutely love making chocolate pistachio cookies! They are the perfect blend of rich chocolate flavor and crunchy pistachios that always leave my family and friends asking for seconds. The combination of these two ingredients creates a delightful contrast that I can’t resist. With just the right amount of sweetness, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a sweet treat to enjoy, I assure you, these cookies will not disappoint! Making them is truly a joyful experience.

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-13T01:55:35.731Z

When I first tried to combine chocolate and pistachios in cookies, I was pleasantly surprised at how well they complemented each other. The richness of the dark chocolate paired with the nutty, earthy flavors of the pistachios creates a special balance. I recommend using high-quality chocolate for the best results, as it enhances the overall flavor exponentially.

One of the key tips I discovered while perfecting this recipe was to chill the cookie dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This step ensures that the cookies hold their shape and become wonderfully chewy. Trust me, the end result is worth the wait!

Why You'll Love These Cookies
Rich chocolate flavor complements the nutty pistachios
A delightful chewy texture with a crunchy finish
Perfect for sharing or enjoying with your favorite beverage

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor of chocolate pistachio cookies. The all-purpose flour provides structure, while the cocoa powder enriches the cookies with a deep chocolate flavor. The combination of unsalted butter and brown sugar not only adds sweetness but contributes to a chewy texture. Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy blending; this ensures a smoother dough and helps incorporate air for a light result.

Chopped pistachios are not just for decoration; they bring a unique nutty flavor and a delightful crunch to the cookies. When folding them in, aim for an even distribution without overmixing, which can lead to a denser cookie. If pistachios are hard to find, walnuts or pecans can make excellent substitutes, offering a different yet complementary texture and taste.

Perfecting the Cookie Dough

Chilling the dough after mixing is an essential step that can significantly enhance the final product. By refrigerating for at least 30 minutes, you allow the fats to solidify, which prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. This results in a thicker, chewier cookie. Alternatively, you can leave the dough overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor development. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature for easier scooping.

When it comes to baking, keep an eye on the timing. Each oven can vary slightly, so start checking your cookies at the 10-minute mark. You're aiming for firm edges; the centers should look slightly underbaked as they'll continue to firm up while cooling. If your cookies spread too much, it might be an indication that the dough was too warm or that the butter was too melted. Adjusting these factors will help you achieve consistent results.

Ingredients

Cookies

1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
1/2 cup (50g) cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup (150g) brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup (75g) chopped pistachios
1/2 cup (90g) chocolate chips

Instructions

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, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add Egg and Vanilla

Mix in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine Mixtures

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

Fold in Pistachios and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and chocolate chips.

Chill the Dough

Chill the cookie dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Shape and Bake

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each. Bake for 10 minutes or until edges are firm.

Cool and Enjoy

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

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking.

Storage and Freezing

These chocolate pistachio cookies store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you're looking to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Just ensure the cookies are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply leave them at room temperature for about 30 minutes or pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to recreate that fresh-baked experience.

For added convenience, you can also freeze portions of the unbaked cookie dough. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag. This way, you can bake fresh cookies on demand by adding an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies pair wonderfully with a wide variety of beverages. Serve them with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk to create a lovely contrast to the rich chocolate and nutty pistachios. For an elegant touch, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful dessert experience.

If you're entertaining guests, try arranging the cookies on a decorative platter alongside fresh fruit or a selection of cheeses. The combination of sweet and savory elements offers a visually appealing and tasty treat that everyone will enjoy. For added flair, dust some confectioners' sugar on top of the cookies or drizzle them with melted chocolate before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative?

Absolutely! You can use coconut oil or any plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.

→ What can I use instead of pistachios?

You can replace pistachios with walnuts or almonds based on your preference.

→ How should I store these cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough! Just roll it into balls and place them in a freezer bag for up to three months.