Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies: The Holiday Cookie That Actually Looks Fancy
Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive
These delightful Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are not only festive but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift for loved ones!
These cookies bring a touch of elegance to your holiday cookie platter. With the vibrant colors of cranberries and pistachios, they not only taste great but also look stunning!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich buttery flavor complemented by tart cranberries
- A delightful crunch from pistachios
- Perfect for holiday gifting or sharing with friends
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are the quintessential holiday treat that combines festive flavors and textures. The rich buttery taste of the cookies is beautifully complemented by the tartness of dried cranberries, making each bite a delightful experience. The vibrant colors of red and green not only capture the spirit of the season but also make these cookies visually appealing on any dessert platter.
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings, adding a touch of elegance to your festive celebrations. They're easy to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family. Whether served at a Christmas party or wrapped up as gifts, these cookies will surely impress your guests and loved ones.
A Simple Yet Elegant Recipe
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create cookies that taste gourmet. The process involves basic mixing and baking techniques, making it accessible even for novice bakers. The use of high-quality butter and fresh ingredients enhances the flavor, ensuring that your cookies are both delicious and satisfying.
Moreover, the versatility of this recipe allows for variations. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits, adapting the cookies to your personal taste. This flexibility not only keeps the recipe exciting but also allows you to create unique variations that can become family favorites.
Perfect for Gifting and Sharing
These Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are not just a treat for you; they make for excellent gifts as well. Pack them in decorative tins or boxes, and you have a thoughtful present that anyone would appreciate. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to delight anyone who receives them, making them a perfect addition to your holiday gifting list.
Additionally, sharing these cookies with friends and family can create lasting memories. Baking together can be a fun holiday tradition, and these cookies are a great way to involve everyone in the festive spirit. Whether enjoyed at a gathering or gifted to a neighbor, these cookies bring joy and connection during the holiday season.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to chop the cranberries and pistachios finely for even distribution.
Instructions
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture.
Add Cranberries and Pistachios
Stir in the chopped cranberries, pistachios, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, flattening them slightly.
Bake the Cookies
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Enjoy your cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips for Perfect Cookies
For the best results, ensure your butter is at room temperature before you begin. This helps in creaming the butter and sugar together, resulting in a lighter, fluffier dough. If you're short on time, you can cut the butter into smaller pieces to speed up the softening process.
When measuring flour, it's crucial to spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid packing it down. This ensures that you use the correct amount for your cookies, preventing them from becoming too dense.
Storing Your Cookies
To keep your Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, maintaining their flavor and crunch. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Simply freeze the cookies in a single layer before transferring them to a zip-top bag, where they can be stored for up to three months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the cookies at room temperature for a couple of hours, or pop them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their texture. This makes them a great make-ahead option for holiday festivities.
Pairing Suggestions
These cookies can be enjoyed on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Consider serving them with hot cocoa for a cozy winter treat, or enjoy them with a cup of tea for a delightful afternoon snack. The flavors of cranberry and pistachio can also complement a light sparkling wine, making them a sophisticated choice for holiday celebrations.
For an extra touch, try drizzling some melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or serving them alongside a fruity preserve. These little additions can elevate your cookie experience, making them even more special for any occasion.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Fresh cranberries can be too tart. It's best to stick with dried for this recipe.
→ How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.
→ What can I substitute for pistachios?
You can use chopped walnuts or almonds as a substitute if needed.
Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies: The Holiday Cookie That Actually Looks Fancy
These delightful Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are not only festive but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift for loved ones!
Created by: Aubrey Collins
Recipe Type: Seasonal & Festive
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture.
Stir in the chopped cranberries, pistachios, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Using a tablespoon, scoop the dough and roll it into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, flattening them slightly.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 2g