01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
02 -
In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until pale and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
03 -
Add eggs individually, beating thoroughly after each addition. Blend in vanilla extract.
04 -
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and dry instant vanilla pudding mix.
05 -
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the butter mixture until fully combined.
06 -
Scoop dough onto prepared baking sheets, spacing appropriately. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
07 -
Transfer baked cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
08 -
Once cookies are cool, sprinkle a thin layer of granulated sugar on top of each cookie. Use a kitchen torch to carefully caramelize the sugar until golden and crisp. Allow sugar crust to harden for one minute before serving.