Are you craving a sweet treat that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! These Vanilla Pudding Cookies are the perfect answer. They're soft, chewy, and bursting with that irresistible vanilla flavor we all adore. Perfect for a quick after-school snack, a delightful dessert, or even a thoughtful homemade gift, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these easy recipes for incredibly delicious cookies!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous baking session. You probably already have most of them in your pantry!
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix (not the cook-and-serve kind)
Instructions: Baking Bliss in Simple Steps
Follow these easy steps for perfectly baked vanilla pudding cookies every time. These quick dinner ideas are so much better than takeout!
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This is crucial for achieving that tender cookie texture. Use an electric mixer for best results.
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Add Eggs & Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
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Incorporate Pudding Mix: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Then, stir in the entire package of instant vanilla pudding mix.
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Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
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Bake to Perfection: Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them – oven temperatures can vary!
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Tricks for Cookie Success
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is properly softened; this ensures proper creaming and a smooth cookie dough.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For even thicker cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Customize Your Cookies: Add chocolate chips, sprinkles, or nuts for extra deliciousness!
Variations: Explore the Possibilities
- Chocolate Pudding Cookies: Replace the vanilla pudding mix with chocolate pudding mix for a decadent twist.
- Lemon Pudding Cookies: Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Mini Cookies: Use a smaller cookie scoop to make bite-sized treats.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate)
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Fat: Approximately 8-10g
- Sugar: Approximately 15-20g
These Vanilla Pudding Cookies are a simple yet satisfying treat perfect for any occasion. Their soft texture and delightful vanilla flavor make them irresistible. Enjoy baking and sharing these homemade delights! They are the best recipes for easy and healthy meals that everyone can enjoy.