Pistachio Shortbread is a delightful and buttery cookie that melts in your mouth with every bite. The rich, nutty flavor of finely chopped pistachios blends beautifully with the tender, crumbly texture of classic shortbread, creating a sophisticated treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea, served at a holiday gathering, or given as a homemade gift, these cookies are a luxurious twist on traditional shortbread. With their beautiful green hue and delicate flavor, Pistachio Shortbread cookies are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add the Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough may be crumbly at first, but it will come together as you mix. Gently fold in the chopped pistachios.
- Form the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it until it forms a smooth ball. Flatten the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to firm up.
- Roll and Cut the Dough: Once chilled, roll the dough out to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes, or slice the dough into squares or rectangles with a knife. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake the Cookies: If desired, sprinkle the tops of the cookies with granulated sugar before baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should remain pale in color overall.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store the Pistachio Shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature.
These Pistachio Shortbread cookies are a delectable treat that brings together the classic texture of shortbread with the unique, nutty flavor of pistachios, making them an elegant addition to any cookie platter or dessert table.
