Description
These Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are buttery, tender, and loaded with crunchy chopped pistachios. Perfectly sweetened with powdered sugar and flavored with vanilla, these cookies offer a delightful nutty twist on classic shortbread. Baked to a light golden perfection, they make an elegant treat for any occasion or a satisfying snack with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shelled pistachios, chopped (plus extra for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, vanilla extract, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until a cohesive dough forms, ensuring even distribution without overmixing.
- Add Pistachios: Gently fold the chopped pistachios into the dough, spreading them evenly to achieve nutty bites in every cookie.
- Shape Dough: Shape the dough into a log about 1-1/2 inches in diameter or roll it out if you prefer to use cookie cutters for different shapes.
- Slice and Arrange: Slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds or cut shapes from the rolled dough. Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each to allow for slight spreading. Optionally, garnish with extra pistachios on top for added texture and presentation.
- Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges just begin to turn a light golden color.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents breakage and helps maintain their delicate texture.
Notes
- For best results, use softened butter at room temperature to achieve proper creaming with the sugar.
- Chilling the dough before slicing can help maintain cookie shape while baking, especially if the room is warm.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to one week.
- To make the cookies gluten free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
- Extra pistachios on top add a nice crunch and aesthetic appeal but are optional.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
