Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
These holiday-perfect shortbread cookies combine buttery dough with tart dried cranberries and crunchy pistachios. They’re crisp at the edges, tender inside, and not overly sweet — just the right balance for a delightful Mediterranean-style dessert with festive flair.
⏱ Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time: 1–2 hours
Bake time: 12–14 minutes
Total time: ~1 hr 30 min
Ingredients
Shortbread Dough
1 cup (226g) olive oil
½ cup granulated sugar
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp almond extract (optional but delicious)
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ tsp salt
½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
½ cup pistachios, chopped
Optional Topping
Melted white chocolate for drizzling
Extra chopped pistachios for garnish
Instructions
1. Add Flavors
Mix in vanilla and almond extract.
2. Add Dry Ingredients
Add flour and salt.
Mix on low until dough comes together (crumbly at first, then forms a soft dough).
3. Add Cranberries & Pistachios
Fold in the chopped cranberries and pistachios until evenly distributed.
4. Shape the Dough
Transfer dough to parchment.
Shape into:
A log (for round cookies)
OR a rectangular slab (for square cookies)
Wrap tightly.
5. Chill
Refrigerate at least 1–2 hours, or until firm enough to slice cleanly.
(Overnight works perfectly too!)
6. Slice
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
Slice chilled dough into ½-inch (1.2 cm) thick cookies.
7. Bake
Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake 12–14 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
8. Cool & Decorate
Let cookies cool completely.
Drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkle pistachios (optional).
Tips
Don’t skip chilling — it prevents spreading.
For brighter flavor, add ½ tsp orange zest to the dough.
For extra crunch, toast pistachios lightly before adding.
If dough is crumbly while shaping, press and warm slightly with hands.
❓ frequently Asked Questions FAQs
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze the dough log or baked cookies up to 2 months.
Should I chop cranberries?
Yes — chopped cranberries distribute better, giving perfect bites.
Why almond extract?
It enhances the nutty pistachio flavor beautifully.
Nutrition information
Calories: 160
Carbs: 16g
Fat: 10g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 2g