Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich flavor of butter with the delicate nuttiness of pistachios. These cookies are not only easy to make but also offer a wonderful texture – crisp on the edges and wonderfully tender in the center. Whether you’re looking to impress holiday guests or simply treat yourself to a comforting snack, these shortbread cookies are sure to satisfy.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 24 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 120 calories
- Protein: 1.5 grams
- Carbohydrates: 14 grams
- Fat: 7 grams
- Fiber: 0.5 grams
- Sugar: 1.5 grams
- Sodium: 30 mg
Why Make This Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
Pistachio Shortbread Cookies offer a unique twist on classic shortbread with their bright green bits of pistachio adding both flavor and visual appeal. The combination of buttery goodness and nutty richness creates a sublime eating experience that will leave your taste buds wanting more. These cookies are also incredibly versatile; they can serve as a lovely addition to holiday platters, be packed into lunch boxes, or simply enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee.
How to Make Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that the cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfectly golden color.
### Step 2: Mixing
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. The mixture should be fluffy and pale in color. Gradually mix in the flour and salt, then stir in the chopped pistachios and vanilla extract. This creates the rich dough that’s filled with flavor.
### Step 3: Chilling
Roll the dough into logs about 1 inch in diameter, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling is essential as it helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
### Step 4: Slicing and Baking
Slice the chilled dough into 1/4 inch thick pieces and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to stay tender and not overbake! Once baked, let cool before serving.
How to Serve Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
These cookies are perfect on their own, but they also shine when paired with a hot beverage like tea or coffee. They make an excellent accompaniment for festive gatherings, and serving them on a whimsical tray can elevate their appearance. For an extra touch, you might consider dusting them lightly with powdered sugar before serving.
How to Store Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
To keep your Pistachio Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you’d like to keep them longer, they freeze well. Just make sure they are in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to three months. Thaw them out at room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for best results.
- For an extra nutty flavor, toast the pistachios lightly before adding them to the dough.
- If you want a sweeter cookie, you can add a little more powdered sugar to the dough.
- Always aim to bake just until the edges begin to turn golden to keep the center soft.
Delicious Variations
- Citrus Zest: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a refreshing twist.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Dip the cooled cookies in melted chocolate for decadence.
- Nutty Medley: Combine pistachios with other nuts like almonds or walnuts for a variety in flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but if you do, reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid overly salty cookies. -
Can I replace the pistachios with another nut?
Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts would work beautifully in this recipe. -
Why are my cookies spreading too much during baking?
This could be due to soft butter. Make sure it’s room temperature and firm but not melt-y. Also, chilling the dough helps prevent spreading. -
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, shape it into logs, and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days before slicing and baking. -
Why do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough helps solidify the fat, resulting in a firmer dough that holds its shape during baking, preventing the cookies from spreading too much.
Conclusion
Pistachio Shortbread Cookies bring a delightful mix of buttery texture and nutty flavor that’s hard to resist. They’re simple to make, quick to bake, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned cook, these cookies are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a batch of these lovely treats – you might just find they become a new favorite!
Print
Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful Pistachio Shortbread Cookies combining rich butter flavor with the nuttiness of pistachios, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy. Gradually mix in the flour and salt, then stir in the chopped pistachios and vanilla extract.
- Roll the dough into logs about 1 inch in diameter and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Slice the chilled dough into 1/4 inch thick pieces and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool before serving.
Notes
For a sweeter cookie, add more powdered sugar. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1.5g
- Sodium: 30mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
