These Pistachio Thumbprint Cookies are soft, buttery, and bursting with flavor from pistachio pudding mix, almond extract, and mini chocolate chips. Rolled in chopped pecans for a nutty crunch and filled with a simple vanilla frosting, they’re the perfect combination of nostalgic and decadent.
Whether you’re prepping a special dessert or just need a sweet treat to brighten the week, these cookies will not disappoint.
Recipe Highlights
- Delightfully nutty. Pistachio pudding and chopped pecans give these cookies a rich, nutty flavor with great texture.
- Fun to make. Kids love helping with the thumbprint part, and the pecan coating adds a rustic, homemade charm.
- Chocolate bonus. Mini chocolate chips take these to the next level without overwhelming the pistachio flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need to make Pistachio Thumbprint Cookies
- Butter: Softened for easy creaming. Adds richness, moisture, and a tender crumb to the cookies.
- Powdered sugar: Gives the dough a smooth texture without any grittiness and sweetens the filling too.
- Egg: Helps bind the dough, provides structure, and contributes to a rich, chewy bite.
- Vanilla extract: For classic sweet depth that enhances all other flavors.
- Almond extract: Complements the pistachio flavor and adds a fragrant, nutty warmth.
- Flour: All-purpose flour provides the sturdy base of the cookie dough and helps hold everything together.
- Pistachio instant pudding mix: Use the dry mix (not prepared). It enhances flavor, adds moisture, and gives the cookies a soft, chewy texture.
- Mini chocolate chips: For a sweet, melty surprise in every bite without overpowering the pistachio.
- Pecans: Finely chopped for rolling each cookie ball, adding a delicate crunch and toasty flavor.
For the Filling:
- Butter: Softened to create a creamy filling that spreads or pipes easily.
- Powdered sugar: Creates a thick and sweet frosting that holds its shape.
- Vanilla extract: Adds flavor and balance to the sweetness of the filling.
- Milk: Just enough to adjust the consistency of the filling for piping or spooning.
Tips and Tricks
Full instructions can be found on the recipe card below, but here are a few helpful tips for making Pistachio Thumbprint Cookies.
- Don’t overmix the dough. Overmixing after adding flour can make the cookies tough instead of soft and tender.
- Use finely chopped pecans. Finely chopping ensures the nuts adhere well and provide a uniform crust.
- Re-press the centers after baking. This allows for a better space to hold the filling without overflow.
- Use a piping bag for neat filling. A piping bag (or zip-top bag with the corner snipped) keeps the frosting tidy and attractive.
- Chill the dough if needed. If your kitchen is warm or the dough feels sticky, chilling it briefly helps with handling and shaping.
Pistachio Thumbprint Cookies Storage
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
- If filled, keep them chilled for up to a week.
- Unfilled cookies can be frozen and filled later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without the pudding mix?
The pudding mix adds a unique softness and pistachio flavor. If needed, use pistachio extract and a bit of extra sugar, or try blending in finely ground pistachios.
Do I have to use pecans?
No—walnuts, almonds, or even unsweetened shredded coconut work well. Choose based on your flavor and texture preferences.
What’s the best way to fill the cookies?
A piping bag or a small spoon both work well. If you’re aiming for a polished look, piping gives you more control.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! Freeze the unfilled cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and fill just before serving for best results.
More thumbprint cookie recipes to try:
- You can’t go wrong with chocolate. Caramel Brownie Thumbprint Cookies or Double Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies are both completely decadent.
- Traditional thumbprint cookies have fruit fillings in the center. Strawberry Thumbprint Cookies and Lemon Thumbprint Cookies are both classic favorites.
- If you want something a little bit unique, you should try Peanut Butter Thumbprint Cookies or whip up a batch of Poppy Seed Thumbprint Cookies.
These Pistachio Thumbprint Cookies are buttery, nutty, and filled with sweet frosting—perfect for gifting, sharing, or savoring one by one. Bake a batch and enjoy the irresistible flavor combo that makes these cookies a timeless favorite.
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