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: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; ½ cup powdered sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup cornstarch; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped; 1 cup pistachios, shelled and chopped; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Indulge in the delightful combination of sweet cranberries and crunchy pistachios with these elegant shortbread cookies, perfect for any holiday gathering.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:20:55.458Z

These Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the tartness of cranberries with the nutty flavor of pistachios. They are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a perfect addition to your holiday cookie platter. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich flavor profile combining sweet and nutty notes
Beautifully festive color that brightens up any dessert table
Simple to make, yet looks incredibly sophisticated

      

The Perfect Holiday Treat

Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are not just any ordinary cookies; they are the epitome of holiday spirit. The vibrant red of the cranberries combined with the rich green of pistachios creates a visually stunning treat that will impress your guests. These cookies offer a delightful crunch with every bite, making them an ideal addition to your holiday dessert spread. Whether you're attending a festive gathering or hosting your own, these cookies will surely become the star of the show.

What sets these cookies apart is their unique flavor profile. The buttery, melt-in-your-mouth shortbread serves as the perfect backdrop for the sweet-tart cranberries and the nutty crunch of pistachios. Each ingredient complements the other, creating a harmonious balance that is both indulgent and satisfying. They are not overly sweet, allowing the natural flavors of the cranberries and nuts to shine through, making them a perfect treat for those who appreciate nuanced flavors.

Easy to Make, Hard to Resist

One of the best aspects of these Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies is how easy they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. The simple technique of creaming butter and sugar, followed by combining dry ingredients, means that even novice bakers can confidently tackle this recipe. The most challenging part is waiting for the dough to chill, but the anticipation will only make the cookies taste even better.

Once baked, these cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, maintaining their freshness. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged beautifully. Imagine giving a box of these elegant cookies to friends and family; it’s a heartfelt gesture that is sure to be appreciated. Their charm lies not only in their taste but also in their presentation, making them an ideal holiday gift or a sweet treat for yourself.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

To ensure your Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies turn out perfectly, consider using high-quality ingredients. Fresh, unsalted butter will provide the best flavor, while good-quality dried cranberries can elevate the sweetness and tartness of the cookies. When chopping the pistachios, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the dough, contributing to a consistent texture in each cookie.

Another tip is to let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack after baking. This step is essential to allow them to firm up and develop their signature shortbread texture. If you prefer a more pronounced cranberry flavor, consider adding a few extra chopped cranberries to the dough. Experimenting with the recipe can lead to delightful variations that cater to your taste preferences.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
½ cup powdered sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup cornstarch
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup dried cranberries, chopped
1 cup pistachios, shelled and chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix the ingredients well to create a smooth dough.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

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

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Add Cranberries and Pistachios

Fold in the chopped cranberries and pistachios until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Shape the Cookies

Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the logs into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.

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. Enjoy!

Serve these cookies at your next holiday gathering for a touch of elegance!

Storing Your Cookies

To maintain the freshness of your Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will keep them crisp and delicious for up to a week. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider freezing them. To freeze, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored this way for up to three months.

Be sure to separate layers of cookies with parchment paper if you're stacking them in a container. This prevents them from sticking together and helps maintain their beautiful shape. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature for a few minutes, and they will taste just as fresh as the day you baked them.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect on their own, but they can also be elevated further with some simple serving suggestions. Pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, creating a decadent dessert experience that will delight your guests.

For a touch of elegance, arrange the cookies on a decorative platter, garnishing with fresh cranberries and pistachios. This simple presentation elevates their look, making them suitable for any holiday occasion. You can also consider drizzling a bit of white chocolate over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different nuts?

Yes! Feel free to substitute the pistachios with walnuts or almonds based on your preference.

→ How should I store these cookies?

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

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the shaped logs of dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What are some variations I can try?

You can add chocolate chips, replace cranberries with raisins, or even dip the cookies in white chocolate for an extra treat!