Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies: The Holiday Cookie That Actually Looks Fancy

Name: Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies: The Holiday Cookie That Actually Looks Fancy
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornstarch; 1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Delight in the festive flavors of these Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2025-12-18T14:07:31.574Z

These Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the crunch of pistachios, creating a perfect holiday cookie that looks as good as it tastes.

        Why You Will Love These Cookies
        The beautiful contrast of red cranberries and green pistachios make them visually stunning
Buttery shortbread base that is crumbly and melt-in-your-mouth delicious
Perfect for gifting during the holiday season or serving at festive gatherings

      

The Festive Appeal of Cranberry and Pistachio

Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds; they are a feast for the eyes. The vibrant red of dried cranberries contrasts beautifully with the rich green of chopped pistachios, making these cookies a stunning centerpiece for any holiday dessert table. Their colorful appearance adds a touch of elegance that can elevate even the simplest of gatherings.

Using seasonal ingredients like cranberries and nuts not only enhances the flavor profile but also embraces the spirit of the holidays. These cookies symbolize comfort and joy, wrapped in a buttery shortbread that melts in your mouth. Their unique combination of flavors makes them a delightful option for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or as a thoughtful gift for loved ones.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or looking for a charming gift, these cookies are the ideal choice. Their sophisticated look and delicious taste make them suitable for a variety of occasions, from Christmas parties to New Year's celebrations. You can even package them in decorative boxes or tins for a heartfelt homemade gift that friends and family will cherish.

Furthermore, the versatility of these cookies allows for easy customization. Feel free to experiment with different nuts or dried fruits, tailoring the recipe to suit your preferences. This adaptability makes each batch uniquely yours, ensuring that you can enjoy them year after year.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best texture, ensure that your butter is softened at room temperature before you begin. This is crucial for creating a light and fluffy dough. When mixing the ingredients, avoid over-mixing once you add the flour mixture, as this can lead to a denser cookie. The goal is to combine everything just until there are no dry ingredients left.

Chilling the dough is another important step that shouldn’t be overlooked. It helps the cookies hold their shape during baking and enhances the overall flavor. Make sure to slice the cookies evenly to ensure they bake uniformly. If you want an extra touch, consider sprinkling some coarse sea salt on top before baking for a delightful contrast to the sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to chop the cranberries and pistachios finely for even distribution in the dough.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Add Cranberries and Pistachios

Fold in the chopped cranberries and pistachios, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Chill the Dough

Divide the dough into two logs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container for up to one week.

Serving Suggestions

These Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are perfect on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of accompaniments. Consider serving them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee to enhance the cozy experience. Their buttery richness complements a wide range of beverages, making them an excellent addition to your afternoon snack or dessert spread.

For a festive twist, try pairing these cookies with a homemade cranberry sauce or a rich chocolate dip. The contrasting flavors will excite your palate and make for a delicious treat that everyone will enjoy.

Storage Tips

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. Simply layer the cookies with parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, allow them to thaw at room temperature for a few hours or pop them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. This will help restore their delightful melt-in-your-mouth goodness, making them taste as fresh as the day they were baked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?

Fresh cranberries may be too tart and can affect the texture of the cookies. Dried cranberries are recommended.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked dough logs for up to three months. Just slice and bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

→ What can I substitute for pistachios?

You can replace pistachios with pecans or walnuts for a different flavor.