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Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need
If you’re craving cookies that stay irresistibly soft and chewy for days, this Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe is your ultimate solution. Imagine biting into a warm, gooey treat packed with colorful M&Ms and melty chocolate chips, all thanks to the secret pudding mix that ensures extra chewiness without any hassle. As a busy home baker, I remember the frustration of cookies turning crisp too quickly—until I discovered this game-changing technique. This easy Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe transforms ordinary ingredients into bakery-quality delights, perfect for family gatherings or a quick dessert fix.
The aroma of these cookies baking fills the kitchen with a heavenly blend of vanilla sweetness and rich chocolate, making it impossible to resist peeking into the oven. Each bite delivers a perfect contrast of soft, pillowy centers and slightly crisp edges, with the M&Ms adding a fun crunch and burst of color. The pudding mix not only enhances the moisture but also creates a tender texture that melts in your mouth, elevating this chocolate chip pudding cookies recipe to a whole new level of indulgence.
Created by Chef Lalyta and exclusively featured on lalytarecipes.com, this Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe stands out as the most reliable and tested version you’ll find online. We’ve perfected every detail through multiple kitchen trials to ensure foolproof results, including the Chef’s Secret for maintaining that signature chewiness. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn insider tips on ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and answers to common questions, empowering you to bake with confidence every time.
Why This Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe is a Game-Changer
The Chef’s Secret lies in the instant vanilla pudding mix, which delivers unbeatable moisture and chewiness to these Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies. This ingredient works by absorbing excess moisture during baking, creating a tender, cake-like interior that sets this recipe apart from standard chocolate chip cookies. Unlike traditional recipes that rely on just butter and sugars, the pudding mix ensures the cookies remain soft for days, thanks to its starch content that stabilizes the dough’s structure.
Unbeatable Texture: The science behind the texture comes from the pudding mix’s ability to form a gel-like network with the eggs and sugars, trapping steam and preventing over-drying. Combined with the softened butter, this results in a chewy cookie that’s neither too cakey nor too crumbly, making it ideal for soft batch chocolate chip pudding cookies enthusiasts.
Foolproof for a Reason: This Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe has been tested over a dozen times in our kitchen to guarantee consistent results, even for novice bakers. Its straightforward steps and precise measurements eliminate common pitfalls, ensuring your cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference
Unsalted butter, softened: This is the foundation of any great cookie dough, providing rich flavor and creaminess in your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe. Using high-quality, unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level and ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture. For the best results, opt for European-style butter with higher fat content. If substituting, you can use salted butter but reduce the added salt by half to avoid over-salting.
Granulated sugar and packed brown sugar: These sugars not only sweeten the dough but also contribute to the chewy texture in Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies. Granulated sugar helps with crisp edges, while brown sugar adds moisture and a deep molasses flavor. Always use fresh sugars for optimal taste—stale ones can make your cookies gritty. A tested substitution is coconut sugar for granulated, which adds a subtle caramel note, but keep brown sugar as is for the best chewiness.
Instant vanilla pudding mix: This is the star of our Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe, infusing extra chewiness and a subtle vanilla undertone. The mix’s starches help bind the ingredients without drying out the dough. Choose a name-brand for consistent quality over generics. If you’re out, you can substitute with instant cheesecake pudding mix for a tangy twist, but it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
Large eggs: Eggs act as a binder and emulsifier, creating structure and richness in your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies. Fresh, room-temperature eggs incorporate more easily into the dough. For dietary needs, substitute with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) to maintain chewiness in vegan versions, though the texture might be slightly denser.
Vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor, complementing the chocolate and M&Ms in this Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe. It adds warmth and depth—never use imitation for the best taste. If unavailable, almond extract can be a fun substitute, but use half the amount to avoid overpowering the dough.
All-purpose flour: This provides the necessary structure for Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies without making them tough. Sifted flour ensures even distribution and prevents dense cookies. For substitutions, whole wheat flour can be used for a nuttier flavor, but replace only half to maintain the soft batch texture.
Baking soda: As a leavening agent, baking soda helps the cookies rise and spread, contributing to their soft, airy centers in this Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe. Always check that it’s fresh for proper activation. Substitute with baking powder in a 1:3 ratio if needed, but it may result in a slightly different rise.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness in Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies. Use fine sea salt for even distribution. If watching sodium, reduce by a quarter, but don’t omit it entirely as it impacts the dough’s chemistry.
M&M’s candies: These add colorful fun and a satisfying crunch to Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe. Choose fresh, high-quality candies for the best melt and pop. For variations, swap with chopped nuts or dried fruit for a different texture while keeping the chewiness intact.
Semi-sweet chocolate chips: They provide melty pockets of chocolate that define classic chocolate chip pudding cookies. Opt for real chocolate chips over wafers for better hold in the dough. Dairy-free chips make an easy substitution for vegan bakers, ensuring the cookies remain soft and irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining your baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking, which is crucial for achieving the perfect soft batch texture in your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe.
Pro Tip: Use a reliable oven thermometer to verify the temperature—ovens can vary, and accurate heat is key to maintaining the cookies’ chewiness without overbaking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, and 3/4 cup packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step incorporates air, which helps with the rise and softness of the cookies.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t rush this process; under-creamed butter can lead to dense cookies. Beat for at least 2-3 minutes until pale and creamy to ensure the best soft batch MM chocolate chip pudding cookies.
Step 3: Beat in the Pudding Mix, Eggs, and Vanilla
Once the butter mixture is ready, beat in the 3.4 oz package of instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully combined. This incorporates the pudding mix evenly, which is essential for that signature chewiness.
Pro Tip: Add the eggs one at a time for better incorporation, and scrape down the sides of the bowl to avoid any unincorporated pockets that could affect the dough’s consistency.
Step 4: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This step ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed, preventing baking soda clumps that could ruin the texture.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Over-whisking can develop gluten, making the cookies tough. Mix just until combined to keep your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies tender.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. This gentle mixing prevents overworking the dough, which is vital for soft batch chocolate chip pudding cookies.
Pro Tip: Use a spatula for the final mixes to avoid over-beating with an electric mixer, preserving the dough’s airy quality.
Step 6: Fold in the Mix-Ins
Fold in the 1 cup M&M’s candies and 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips by hand. This ensures even distribution without breaking the candies, maintaining their fun texture in the baked cookies.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overmix here, as it can melt the chocolate chips prematurely and affect the final chewiness of your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe.
Step 7: Scoop and Bake the Dough
Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden, watching closely for the perfect soft batch texture.
Pro Tip: For extra chewiness, slightly underbake by 1-2 minutes—the cookies will continue to set as they cool.
Step 8: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This rest helps them firm up without becoming brittle.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Moving them too soon can cause them to break, so patience is key to enjoying perfectly soft batch MM chocolate chip pudding cookies.
Serving & Presentation
Elevate your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies by presenting them on a rustic wooden board with a sprinkle of sea salt for a gourmet touch, enhancing their chewy centers and chocolatey flavors. Pair these cookies with a tall glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience. For creative plating, stack them in a clear jar as a centerpiece or drizzle with melted white chocolate for added visual appeal. These cookies complement American-style meals like barbecues or picnics, serving as the perfect ending to a summer feast.
Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions
Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance by mixing all ingredients except the M&Ms and chocolate chips, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Add the mix-ins just before baking to keep their texture intact, ensuring your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies remain fresh and chewy.
Storing Leftovers: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain their softness. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature for the best results.
The Best Way to Reheat: To restore the original chewy texture, warm cookies in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds. This gently melts the chocolate chips without drying out the dough, making your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies taste freshly baked.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What makes Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies stay soft after baking?
The key to the lasting softness in Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies is the instant vanilla pudding mix, which contains starches that retain moisture and prevent the cookies from drying out. Combined with the right balance of sugars and fats, this ingredient creates a barrier that locks in chewiness, even after cooling. For best results, store them in an airtight container as per our recipe notes.
Can I substitute regular flour for another type in Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but choose wisely to maintain the soft batch texture. For instance, swap up to half with whole wheat flour for a heartier flavor, as it adds fiber without making the cookies too dense. Gluten-free options like almond flour can work, but use a 1:1 blend and add a teaspoon of xanthan gum to mimic the structure, ensuring your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies remain chewy.
How long do you need to bake Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies for the perfect texture?
For the ideal chewy texture, bake Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies for 10-12 minutes at 350°F, focusing on the edges turning lightly golden while the centers stay soft. Ovens vary, so start checking at 10 minutes—overbaking by even a minute can make them crispier, so rely on visual cues for perfection.
What are some creative ways to serve or store Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies?
Creative serving ideas include crumbling them over yogurt for a fun breakfast or using them as ice cream sandwich bases for a twist on desserts. For storage, keep them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to absorb moisture and maintain softness. You can also freeze portions for quick treats, thawing as needed to preserve that fresh-baked quality in your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe.
Can I add other mix-ins to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additions like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even peanut butter chips to customize your Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies. Just keep the total add-ins to about 2 cups to avoid overloading the dough, which could affect the baking time and texture.
Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
Yes, with simple swaps! For a vegan version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, use flax eggs instead of regular eggs, and opt for dairy-free chocolate chips and M&Ms. For gluten-free, substitute the flour with a certified gluten-free blend and add xanthan gum if needed. These changes will keep the chewiness intact while making the recipe accessible for dietary restrictions.
What equipment do I need for this Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies Recipe?
Essential tools include a mixing bowl, electric mixer or whisk, baking sheets, parchment paper, and a cookie scoop for even portions. These basics ensure precise results, making it easy to achieve perfect soft batch chocolate chip pudding cookies at home.
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Soft Batch M&M Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
Description
These soft batch cookies are made with pudding mix for extra chewiness and loaded with M&Ms and chocolate chips.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup M&M's candies
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the pudding mix, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the M&M's and chocolate chips.
- Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
For extra soft cookies, do not overbake. Store in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Method: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 2g
Conclusion
These Soft Batch MM Chocolate Chip Pudding Cookies offer a perfectly chewy texture and a delightful mix of chocolate chips and colorful M&M’s, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion, from casual snacking to holiday gatherings. Their pudding base adds an extra layer of softness that keeps them fresh and moist. For a fun variation, try swapping out the M&M’s for your favorite candies or serving them warm with a cold glass of milk. If you’re craving more chocolatey delights, don’t miss the Irresistible No-Bake Chocolate Banana Trifle or the Easy Lemon Coconut Cheesecake Cookies for another easy dessert option.
