Delicious Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Cookies Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Flavor Combination: The delightful blend of rich dark chocolate and crunchy salted pistachios creates a taste sensation that’s both sweet and savory.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cookies are perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy night in, a holiday gathering, or a bake sale, these cookies are sure to impress.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different nuts, chocolates, or even add a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra touch!

Introduction

Are you ready to embark on a delicious adventure that will tantalize your taste buds? Say hello to the Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Cookies! These cookies are not just your average sweet treat; they are a delightful fusion of flavors that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Imagine biting into a warm, gooey cookie filled with rich dark chocolate chunks and the satisfying crunch of roasted salted pistachios. It’s a match made in cookie heaven! So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this fun and easy recipe that will make your kitchen smell heavenly!

Ingredients

• ½ cup (60g) roasted salted pistachios (no shell)
• 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil
• 7 tbsp (100g) salted butter, softened
• ½ cup (110g) packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
• ¼ tsp pure almond extract
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup plus 2 tbsp (160g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp matcha powder
• 1 cup (5oz/142g) dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 tbsp ground pistachios
• Flaky sea salt (optional for sprinkling)

Directions

1. Make the Pistachio Paste: In a small food processor, pulse the roasted salted pistachios until finely ground. Add the olive oil and blend until it forms a thick paste. Set aside some ground pistachios for topping later.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with both the light brown sugar and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until the mixture is smooth. Incorporate the pistachio paste into the mixture.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, matcha powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Mix the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, folding it in gently. Finally, mix in the chopped dark chocolate until evenly distributed. The dough will be soft and sticky.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for 2 hours. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect cookie texture!
7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
8. Scoop the Cookies: Using a 1.5 oz cookie scoop, place the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 3 inches apart. Top each cookie with extra ground pistachios.
9. Bake: Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until they are golden at the edges. Allow them to cool on a wire rack for a minute before transferring them to cool completely.
10. Finish with Flaky Sea Salt: If desired, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt on top of the warm cookies for an extra burst of flavor!

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

These Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ways to present and serve them:

• Cookie Platter: Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter, garnished with a few whole pistachios and chocolate chunks for a rustic look.
• Gift Jars: Layer the cookies in a mason jar, tied with a ribbon, for a thoughtful homemade gift.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Pair with Beverages: Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or even a warm cup of tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Storage and Shelf Life

To keep your Salted Pistachio Chocolate Chunk Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will last for about 5-7 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes!

FAQs

1. Can I use unsalted pistachios? Yes, but you may want to adjust the salt in the recipe to taste.
2. What can I substitute for olive oil? You can use melted coconut oil or any neutral oil.
3. Can I use different types of chocolate? Absolutely! Feel free to use milk chocolate or white chocolate for a different flavor.
4. Is it necessary to chill the dough? Yes, chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape and texture.
5. Can I make these cookies gluten-free? Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
6. How do I know when the cookies are done baking? They should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
7. Can I add other nuts? Yes, feel free to mix in your favorite nuts for added texture and flavor!
8. What’s the best way to store leftover cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for optimal freshness.
9. Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
10. What’s the secret to chewy cookies? Make sure not to overbake them; they should be slightly underbaked when you take them out of the oven.