Print

Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
Print Recipe

These Pistachio Shortbread Cookies offer a perfect blend of buttery richness and subtle nutty crunch. Crispy on the edges with tender centers, enhanced by the vibrant flavor of fresh pistachios, they are simple to make using pantry staples. Ideal as a delightful snack, elegant gift, or party favor, these cookies are sure to become a favorite treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup chopped pistachios (fresh or roasted)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) and gather all your ingredients. Chop the pistachios finely, leaving some larger pieces for texture variety.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until the mixture is light, creamy, and pale. This step is key to getting a tender crumb.
  3. Add Vanilla and Salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt evenly so flavors distribute perfectly throughout the dough.
  4. Incorporate Flour and Pistachios: Gently fold in the all-purpose flour a little at a time, then add the chopped pistachios, making sure everything is just combined without overmixing. The dough should be soft but manageable.
  5. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls or press into a shortbread mold for uniform shapes. You can also flatten the dough slightly on a baking sheet for more rustic cookies.
  6. Bake Until Golden: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 18 to 22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye near the end to avoid overbaking.
  7. Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents breakage and helps them firm up just right.

Notes

  • Use room temperature butter to ensure proper creaming for better texture.
  • Don’t overmix the dough to keep cookies tender and crumbly.
  • If dough is too soft, chill it before shaping to make handling easier.
  • Use fresh or lightly roasted pistachios for maximum flavor and crunch.
  • Bake on the middle rack for even heat distribution and perfect browning.
  • Optional variations include chocolate drizzle, lemon zest, rosewater infusion, gluten-free flour substitute, or a sea salt finish.

Nutrition

Keywords: pistachio shortbread cookies, buttery cookies, nutty cookies, gluten-free cookies, easy cookie recipe, holiday cookies, tea time snacks

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/pistachio-shortbread-cookies/