9tablespoonpistachio creamNote: Look for a high quality Italian Brand for that vibrant green. Amazon: https://a.co/d/0fOanR38
For the Cookie Dough
½cupunsalted butter, softened, cool room temperature
½cupdark brown sugar
1tablespoondark brown sugar
¼cupgranulated sugar
1tablespoongranulated sugar
1large egg
1teaspoonvanilla extract
1⅔cupsall-purpose flour
½teaspoonbaking soda
½teaspoonflaked sea salt+ more for topping (optional)
Mix-ins
¾cupchocolate chips
2tablespoonchocolate chipsdark chocolate discs or hand-chopped bars, + more for topping
⅓cupchopped pistachios
1tablespoonchopped pistachios+ more for topping
Instructions
Step 1 - Prepare the Filling
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of pistachio cream onto a lined tray.
Freeze for 45 minutes until firm.
Pro Tip: They must be rock-hard to survive the 350°F heat without emulsifying into the dough.
Step 2 - Make the Cookie Dough
In a bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 3 - Add Dry Ingredients
Mix in flour, baking soda and salt until just combined.
Note: Slowly mix in. Do not mix completely.
Step 4 - Add Mix-ins
Gently fold in chocolate chips and chopped pistachios.
Step 5 - Shape & Fill
Scoop large portions of dough (about 3 tablespoon each - 60 - 70 g).
Create a deep well, place frozen pistachio cream in the center.
Pinch the dough twice to ensure a double-thick seal at the bottom.
Roll into a tall, rough cylinder rather than a ball.
The “Leak” Troubleshooting: If the pistachio cream leaks, it usually means the dough was too thin at the base. Advise readers to “bottom-load” the dough when sealing.
Step 6 - Chill
Refrigerate the assembled dough balls for 30 minutes to help them hold shape.
Note: Chilling the fat ensures the outside of the cookie sets before the frozen center can melt and leak.
Step 7 - Bake
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake for 12 - 14 minutes until edges are golden and centers are slightly soft. Tops should still look slightly pale and “set”.
Step 8 - Cool
Immediately after removing from the oven, use a large round cutter or a glass to “scoot” the cookies into perfect circles.
Let cookies rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Video
Notes
Cooking Time and Temperature
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes.
Taste & Texture
Thick and chewy cookies with crisp edges, melted chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and a creamy pistachio lava center.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze baked cookies or unbaked dough balls for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 10 seconds to bring back the gooey center.
Serving Recommendations
I love serving these slightly warm with coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The melted pistachio center is at its absolute best while the cookies are still a little warm.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
Use white chocolate instead of dark chocolate.
Add chopped toasted almonds.
Mix in a little orange zest for extra flavor.
Chocolate chips: Dark or semi-sweet recommended. At least 60% cacao.
Proper Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container.
Separate layers with parchment paper.
Warm slightly before serving for the best texture.