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Delicious Pistachio Shortbread Cookies Recipe

Delicious Pistachio Shortbread Cookies Recipe

5.2 from 9 reviews

These delicious Pistachio Shortbread Cookies combine the rich, buttery flavor of classic shortbread with the crunch and nutty taste of finely chopped pistachios, delivering a tender and crisp treat that’s perfect for holidays and everyday snacking.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup finely chopped roasted, unsalted pistachios
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Optional Garnishes

  • Chocolate for dipping (melted)
  • Sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process is essential to developing the shortbread’s signature tender and crumbly texture.
  2. Add the Flour and Pistachios: Sift the all-purpose flour and salt together, then gradually add it to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Stir until combined, then gently fold in the finely chopped pistachios to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.
  3. Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions and carefully roll each into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to firm up the dough and improve cookie shape retention during baking.
  4. Slice and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dough logs from the refrigerator and slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden brown. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. Optional Decorating: Once cooled, dip the edges of the cookies in melted chocolate or sprinkle with a touch of sea salt to add extra flavor and a beautiful finishing touch.

Notes

  • Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming and better texture.
  • Chilling the dough logs is crucial to prevent the cookies from spreading during baking and to achieve clean slices.
  • Feel free to use salted pistachios if unsalted are unavailable, but reduce or omit added salt accordingly.
  • Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: Pistachio shortbread cookies, nutty shortbread, buttery cookies, holiday cookies, easy shortbread recipe