Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
Description
These Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are rich and buttery with a tender, crumbly texture. Tart dried cranberries balance the sweetness, while pistachios add a subtle crunch and nutty flavor. Perfect with tea or coffee, for holidays, gifting, or anytime you want an elegant cookie with minimal effort.
Time Required
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: ~1 hour
Ingredients (Makes about 20–24 cookie
Powdered sugar – ½ cup
Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon
All-purpose flour – 2 cups
Salt – ¼ teaspoon
Dried cranberries (chopped) – ½ cup
Pistachios (shelled, chopped) – ½ cup
Optional topping: Extra chopped pistachios or a light sprinkle of sugar
Instructions
Cream & sugar
In a bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add flavor
Mix in vanilla extract.
Combine dry ingredients
Gradually add flour and salt. Mix just until a soft dough forms.
Fold in mix-ins
Gently stir in chopped cranberries and pistachios.
Shape & chill
Form dough into a log (or flatten into a disc). Wrap in plastic and chill for 30 minutes.
Preheat oven
Preheat to 170°C (340°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Slice & bake
Slice dough into ½-inch thick rounds and place on tray.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
Cool
Let cookies cool on tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Nutritional Information (Per Cookie – Approx.)
Calories: 130 kcal
Fat: 8 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Sugar: 6 g
Protein: 2 g
Fiber: 1 g
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
A: Dried cranberries are best. Fresh cranberries add too much moisture and tartness.
Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Yes! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for 1 month.
Q: Why do my shortbread cookies spread too much?
A: The butter may be too soft or the dough wasn’t chilled enough. Always chill before baking.
Q: Can I make them egg-free?
A: Good news—this recipe is naturally egg-free
Q: How should I store them?
A: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 7 days.