Go Back
+ servings
Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies: The Holiday Cookie That Actually Looks Fancy

Deliciously Fancy Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies offer a festive blend of sweet tartness and crunchy texture, making them the perfect holiday treat.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Course: Blog
Cuisine: Dessert
Keyword: Baking Recipe, cookies, Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies, Festive Cookies, Gourmet Cookies, holiday baking
Servings: 16 cookies
Calories: 180kcal

Equipment

  • 8x8 baking pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Oven
  • parchment paper

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 1 cup Unsalted Butter Can be substituted with salted butter
  • ½ cup Powdered Sugar
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Almond extract can be used for variation
  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can be substituted with gluten-free baking flour
  • ¼ teaspoon Salt Omit if using salted butter

For the Flavor

  • 1 cup Chopped Dried Cranberries Can substitute with dried cherries
  • 1 cup Chopped Pistachios Chopped almonds or walnuts can be used
  • 1 tablespoon Orange Zest Lemon zest is also a good alternative

For the Drizzle

  • 1 cup White Chocolate Dark chocolate can be used for a richer flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil

Instructions

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 325°F. Line your 8×8 baking pan with parchment paper.
  • Cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar in a bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add in the vanilla extract and mix well.
  • Combine the flour and salt, mixing at a low speed until just incorporated.
  • Fold in the chopped cranberries, pistachios, and optional orange zest.
  • Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan and score the top lightly with a knife.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
  • Cool completely in the pan before drizzling with melted white chocolate and coconut oil.
  • Let the chocolate set for about 15 minutes before cutting into squares or bars.

Notes

Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful pairing. Customize flavors based on personal preference.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookie | Calories: 180kcal | Carbohydrates: 22g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 50mg | Potassium: 50mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 10mg | Iron: 0.5mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!