Description
Looking for a quick holiday cookie that’s beautiful, buttery, and bursting with flavor? These Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies check all the boxes. Buttery soft with a delicate crumb, filled with tart dried cranberries and crunchy pistachios, and topped with a smooth white chocolate glaze—this easy recipe is perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday platters, or a cozy snack with tea. Whether you’re hunting for easy dessert ideas, holiday baking inspiration, or a make-ahead treat, these cookies bring festive vibes with every bite.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup shelled, unsalted pistachios, chopped
4 ounces white chocolate, for melting and drizzling
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar until smooth and light.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix to combine.
3. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until the dough forms—don’t overmix.
4. Fold in the dried cranberries and chopped pistachios gently until evenly distributed.
5. Divide the dough in half, shape into two logs about 2 inches in diameter, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Slice the chilled dough into ¼-inch thick rounds and place them 1 inch apart on the baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to turn golden.
9. Let cookies cool completely on a wire rack.
10. Melt the white chocolate and drizzle over the cookies or dip the tops. Allow glaze to set before storing.
Notes
Always chill the dough fully before slicing to help the cookies hold their shape.
For extra flavor, lightly toast the pistachios before folding them into the dough.
Let the cookies cool completely before glazing to avoid a melted mess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 145
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 15mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
Keywords: cranberry pistachio cookies, shortbread, easy cookie recipe, holiday cookies, quick dessert, butter cookies