If you love soft, chewy cookies with a nutty twist and a little chocolate surprise on top, Pistachio Kiss Pudding Cookies are about to become your new favorite treat. Made with pistachio pudding mix for an irresistibly soft texture and topped with a classic Hershey’s Kiss, these cookies are festive, flavorful, and beautifully green — perfect for holidays, cookie exchanges, or anytime you want something that looks as good as it tastes. Each bite offers the perfect combination of buttery sweetness, subtle pistachio flavor, and creamy chocolate.
This recipe takes a beloved classic (pudding cookies) and gives it a modern, colorful update that’s both fun and elegant. Whether you’re baking for Christmas, St. Patrick’s Day, or just a cozy weekend treat, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and Chewy Texture: Pistachio pudding makes the cookies incredibly soft and moist.
- Perfectly Balanced Flavor: Sweet, nutty, and buttery with a hint of salt.
- Festive and Eye-Catching: The light green color and chocolate kiss on top make them visually stunning.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients, quick to prepare, and perfect for any skill level.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by kids and adults alike — they disappear fast!
Ingredients for Pistachio Kiss Pudding Cookies
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 (3.4-ounce) box instant pistachio pudding mix (dry)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pistachios (optional, for extra crunch)
- 36–40 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats. Unwrap the Hershey’s Kisses and place them in the refrigerator to stay firm — this helps them keep their shape after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes. Add the instant pistachio pudding mix (just the dry powder) and mix until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to make sure everything is well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix. If using, fold in the chopped pistachios for added texture and flavor.
Step 6: Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 9–11 minutes, or until the edges are just set and the centers still look soft.
Step 7: Add the Kisses
Remove the cookies from the oven and immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into the center of each one. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Let cool completely so the chocolate sets.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, the cookies are ready to serve! Their soft texture and bright color make them perfect for dessert platters, gift boxes, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee or milk.
Flavor and Texture Profile
Pistachio Kiss Pudding Cookies are buttery and melt-in-your-mouth soft, thanks to the pudding mix that keeps them moist for days. The pistachio flavor is subtle but distinctive — nutty and slightly sweet, with a creamy undertone that complements the chocolate perfectly. The cookie base is chewy on the inside with just the right amount of crispness on the edges, while the Hershey’s Kiss adds a smooth, chocolatey finish. The result? A cookie that’s festive, fun, and utterly addictive.
Tips for Perfect Pistachio Cookies
- Use instant pudding mix: Don’t substitute with cook-and-serve pudding — only instant will give the soft texture.
- Don’t overbake: Remove cookies while the centers are still soft; they’ll continue to set as they cool.
- Chill the kisses: Cold Hershey’s Kisses hold their shape better when pressed into hot cookies.
- Add extra pistachio flavor: Stir in a few drops of pistachio extract for a stronger nutty taste.
- For extra color: Add a drop or two of green food coloring to enhance the hue.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Freezing Dough: Roll dough into balls and freeze on a baking sheet. Transfer to freezer bags for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen — just add 1–2 extra minutes.
- Storage: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze baked cookies (without the Kisses added) for up to 2 months. Thaw and press chilled Hershey’s Kisses into slightly warmed cookies for a fresh finish.
Variations and Add-Ons
- White Chocolate Pistachio Cookies: Swap Hershey’s Kisses for white chocolate chips or drizzle melted white chocolate on top.
- Chocolate Pistachio Swirl: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to half the dough and marble it together before baking.
- Coconut Pistachio Kiss Cookies: Add ¼ cup shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend — pudding cookies are naturally forgiving and bake up beautifully.
- Holiday Version: Decorate with red and green sprinkles or swap the Kisses for holiday-themed chocolate truffles.
Serving Ideas
These cookies are versatile enough to serve year-round but shine brightest during the holidays. Try these serving ideas:
- Arrange them on a Christmas cookie platter for a pop of color and fun.
- Package them in a gift box or tin lined with parchment for edible presents.
- Serve them at baby showers or spring parties — their green hue adds a cheerful touch.
- Pair them with iced coffee, chai lattes, or hot cocoa for an afternoon treat.
Nutritional Snapshot
Each cookie (based on 36 cookies per batch) contains approximately:
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 2g
They’re indulgent, yes — but just one or two will satisfy that sweet craving with their soft texture and rich flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another pudding flavor?
Yes! Vanilla or white chocolate pudding works well for a milder version, while pistachio gives the best color and nutty taste.
Do I have to use Hershey’s Kisses?
No — you can use chocolate chunks, peanut butter cups, or drizzle melted chocolate on top instead.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Butter gives the best flavor and texture, but margarine can work in a pinch. Avoid low-fat spreads.
Why did my cookies turn flat?
The dough may have been too warm. Chill it for 30 minutes before baking if your kitchen is hot.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! These cookies are great for large gatherings — just double all ingredients and bake in batches.
Expert Tips for Bakery-Style Results
- Cream the butter and sugars well: This step ensures lightness and prevents dense cookies.
- Use a cookie scoop: It helps create evenly sized cookies for consistent baking.
- Rotate the pans halfway through baking: Ensures even browning.
- Press the kisses gently: Too hard and the cookie might crack.
- Cool completely before storing: Trapped steam can make cookies soggy.
A Festive Treat for Every Occasion
These Pistachio Kiss Pudding Cookies aren’t just delicious — they’re a feast for the eyes. Their soft green hue and glossy chocolate centers make them perfect for festive occasions like Christmas, Easter, or St. Patrick’s Day. They’re also ideal for gifting, as they hold their shape and stay soft for days.
They combine the best of both worlds — nostalgic comfort and modern flair — all wrapped into one sweet little cookie. With their soft, buttery texture, creamy pistachio flavor, and that irresistible chocolate kiss on top, these cookies bring a touch of joy to every bite.
Pistachio Kiss Pudding Cookies
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- cookie sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone mats
- Wire cooling rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop (optional)
Ingredients
- 2.25 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 0.75 cup granulated sugar
- 0.25 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 box (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix (dry)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup chopped pistachios (optional)
- 36 Hershey’s Kisses, unwrapped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats. Unwrap the Kisses and chill them in the fridge to keep their shape.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes). Add the pistachio pudding mix and beat until fully combined.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Scrape down the bowl as needed to ensure even mixing.
- Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined. If using, fold in chopped pistachios for added crunch.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets. Bake for 9–11 minutes or until edges are set and centers still soft.
- Immediately press a Hershey’s Kiss into each cookie after baking. Let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, enjoy or store in an airtight container. These cookies stay soft for several days and are great for gifting or holiday platters.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Pistachio Kiss Pudding Cookies are the definition of festive, fun baking — soft, chewy, colorful, and bursting with flavor. The combination of pudding mix and chocolate makes them melt-in-your-mouth tender while staying fresh for days. They’re quick to make, easy to decorate, and guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any cookie platter or dessert table. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself to something sweet and cheerful, these cookies deliver pure happiness — one delicious, pistachio-green bite at a time.
