Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

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🍪✨ Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies ✨🍪
Buttery, crisp, slightly nutty, and beautifully festive, these cookies are a holiday favorite—and a year-round treat!

đź“ť Introduction

Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are a delightful fusion of buttery richness, tangy cranberries, and crunchy pistachios. These cookies not only taste incredible but also bring a pop of red and green—making them a perfect choice for festive occasions like Christmas, weddings, or tea parties. Easy to prepare and elegantly simple, this shortbread is a classic recipe with a fruity and nutty twist.

🛒 Ingredients (Makes about 24–30 cookies)

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (226g or 2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup (60g) powdered sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Mix-ins:

  • ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
  • ½ cup pistachios, chopped (unsalted, shelled preferred)

🧑‍🍳 Instructions & Methods

1. Creaming the Butter

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
  • Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.

2. Add Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a dough forms.

3. Fold in the Goodies

  • Gently fold in the chopped cranberries and pistachios using a spatula or wooden spoon. The dough will be thick.

4. Shape and Chill

  • Divide dough in half. Form each half into a log, about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
  • Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until firm. (You can also freeze for longer storage.)

5. Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • Slice the chilled dough into ÂĽ-inch thick rounds and place them about 1 inch apart.
  • Bake for 14–18 minutes, or until edges are just lightly golden.
  • Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

🕰️ History of Shortbread Cookies

Shortbread originated in Scotland in the 12th century, evolving from a biscuit made with leftover bread dough into a luxurious treat made with butter. The name “short” comes from the crumbly texture due to the high fat content. This traditional Scottish delight became a symbol of celebration—especially around Christmas and Hogmanay. The cranberry-pistachio version is a modern, festive twist with a nod to global flavor palettes.

đź’š Benefits of Key Ingredients

  • Butter: Rich in fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Provides richness and satisfying texture.
  • Cranberries: Packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. Help in urinary tract health and immunity.
  • Pistachios: A heart-healthy nut rich in protein, healthy fats, and minerals like potassium and magnesium.
  • Shortbread (as a whole): While indulgent, it offers a satisfying sweet in small portions, making it great for mindful treats.

🧪 Formation & Texture

The classic 1:2:3 ratio in shortbread (1 part sugar, 2 parts butter, 3 parts flour) gives it that signature crumbly yet melt-in-your-mouth texture. The mix-ins (cranberries and pistachios) not only add a festive appearance but also create contrast in texture and flavor—sweet and tart from the berries, crunchy and earthy from the nuts.

🥰 Conclusion: Why You’ll Love It

These cookies are:

  • Perfect for holidays and edible gifting
  • Make-ahead friendly (freeze the dough!)
  • Colorful and classy on dessert trays
  • Balanced in flavor—buttery, nutty, and fruity

Pair with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy moment.

💑 For the Lovers of…

  • Shortbread traditionalists who want a fresh twist
  • Festive flavor lovers who adore holiday colors and tastes
  • Nut lovers who enjoy the delicate crunch of pistachios
  • Gifting queens & kings looking for a beautiful, tasty present

🧾 Nutritional Info (Approx. per cookie)

Nutrient Amount
Calories ~120 kcal
Total Fat ~8g
Saturated Fat ~5g
Carbohydrates ~11g
Sugar ~4g
Protein ~1.5g
Fiber ~0.5g

(Note: Nutritional values vary depending on exact ingredients and size.)

🌟 Second Conclusion: Why Lovers Keep Coming Back

Lovers of Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies cherish the buttery base, chewy berries, and toasted nut crunch. They’re easy to fall for—one bite brings a smile, two bring memories, and three? Well… that’s how the cookie crumbles! 🍪❤️

Would you like a gluten-free or vegan version too?

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