These cookies are soft, gooey, and packed with chocolate chips, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Preheating ensures even baking from the start.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda, then set aside.
Sifting the dry ingredients helps prevent lumps in the batter.
In another bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and white sugar until smooth.
Creaming the butter and sugars properly adds air to the mixture, making the cookies light.
Beat in the vanilla pudding mix until well blended.
The pudding mix adds moisture and a unique flavor to the cookies.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
Using room temperature eggs helps them blend more easily into the batter.
Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.
Fold in the chocolate chips and walnuts.
Gently folding prevents the mix-ins from breaking.
Drop spoonfuls of dough onto an ungreased baking sheet.
Using a cookie scoop ensures uniform sizes for even baking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
Slightly underbaking keeps the centers soft and gooey.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooling on the sheet allows the cookies to set properly.