Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies embody the essence of festive sophistication. With a buttery texture and a delightful crunch, these cookies stand out with their vivid colors and contrasting flavors. The tart sweetness of cranberries plays harmoniously with the rich, nutty notes of pistachios, creating a treat that is not only visually stunning but also a joy to savor. Perfect for holiday gatherings or elegant gifting, they elevate any occasion with their refined appeal.
Why Make This Recipe
- Effortless Yet Elegant: With minimal steps, these cookies exude an air of sophistication.
- Minimal Ingredients: A few quality components yield remarkable flavor and texture.
- Impressive Flavor: The combination of tart cranberries and crunchy pistachios offers a delightful balance.
These cookies elevate the traditional shortbread with vibrant flavors and textures, transforming a simple treat into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients
- Base:1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Mix-ins:1 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, coarsely chopped
How to Make Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until airy and pale. Incorporate the vanilla extract, mixing until fully blended.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: Sift the all-purpose flour and salt into the mixture. Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing for a tender texture.
- Add Mix-Ins: Fold in the chopped cranberries and pistachios, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough. The vibrant colors should peek through as you mix.
- Shape and Chill: Roll the dough into two logs, approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log securely in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Slice and Bake: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice into ¼-inch rounds. Place them on the prepared sheets, spaced apart to allow for minimal spread.
- Final Touches: Bake in the pre-heated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden. Remove and allow to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
How to Serve Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
For an elegant presentation, serve these cookies on a tiered platter or alongside a selection of artisanal cheeses and seasonal fruits. Drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate on the side for an opulent touch. To enhance the festive spirit, garnish with sprigs of rosemary or mint.
How to Store Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
To maintain their fresh texture and flavor, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If desired, interlayer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat in a warm oven for a few minutes to revive their texture before serving.
Tips to Make Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
- Chill the Dough: Chilling not only firms the dough for easy slicing but also enhances the depth of flavor.
- Quality Nuts: Use fresh, high-quality pistachios for optimal flavor. Toasting them lightly before adding can elevate the nutty notes.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a touch of orange zest for an aromatic lift that complements the cranberries beautifully.
Variation
For an elegant twist, substitute the cranberries with dried cherries or apricots. Alternatively, use almonds in place of pistachios for a different but equally delightful flavor profile. Presentation can be enhanced with a dusting of edible gold leaf or a light shower of powdered sugar.
FAQs
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to three days before baking. Simply wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
Can I use fresh cranberries?
Fresh cranberries are quite tart. If using them, consider reducing the quantity or sweetening them slightly before incorporation.
How long do these cookies last?
When stored properly, these cookies can last up to a week at room temperature or can be frozen for up to three months.
Conclusion
Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are a testament to the beauty of simplicity and refinement in holiday baking. Their exquisite taste and charming appearance make them a versatile addition to festive celebrations. Share your own experiences and adaptations in the comments below, and don’t hesitate to spread the joy by sharing this recipe with friends. How would you make this dish your own?
Print
Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully elegant cookies featuring buttery shortbread, tart cranberries, and crunchy pistachios, perfect for festive occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, coarsely chopped
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until airy and pale. Incorporate the vanilla extract, mixing until fully blended.
- Sift the all-purpose flour and salt into the mixture. Stir gently until just combined—avoid overmixing for a tender texture.
- Fold in the chopped cranberries and pistachios, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough. The vibrant colors should peek through as you mix.
- Roll the dough into two logs, approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log securely in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice into ¼-inch rounds. Place them on the prepared sheets, spaced apart.
- Bake in the pre-heated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden. Allow to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
For an elegant presentation, serve cookies on a tiered platter or alongside artisanal cheeses and seasonal fruits. Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 cookies
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg