Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies – Buttery, Festive & Totally Irresistible 🍪🫒🍒
Looking for a cookie that feels both cozy and classy? These Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are your new go-to!
With their soft, crumbly texture, tart bursts of dried cranberries, and the nutty crunch of pistachios, these cookies bring together the best of holiday baking , Mediterranean flavors , and classic European shortbread in one irresistible bite.
Perfect for gifting, tea time, or as part of your holiday cookie tray — these treats look like they came from a fancy bakery but come together with just a few simple ingredients.
Let’s get baking!
🧈 Why You’ll Love These Shortbread Cookies
- Buttery base : Classic shortbread meets modern flavor.
- Tart & sweet combo : Dried cranberries add natural sweetness and color.
- Nutty crunch : Pistachios give texture and rich green contrast.
- No mixer needed : Just mix, press, and bake — done!
- Great for holidays : Red and green colors make them festive and photo-worthy.
🧾 Ingredients (Makes 24–30 Cookies)
For the dough:
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 227g) unsalted butter , softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for smoothness and light sweetness)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (or almond extract for extra depth)
For the mix-ins:
- ½ cup dried cranberries (unsweetened or lightly sweetened)
- ¼ cup chopped roasted pistachios (plus extra for topping)
- Optional: 1 tbsp finely grated orange zest for citrus brightness
For finishing:
- Coarse sugar or sanding sugar , for sparkle
- Pistachios and dried cranberries , for garnish
- Optional: a drizzle of white chocolate or powdered sugar glaze
🔪 Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring tools
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
- Knife or pizza cutter
- Cooling rack
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl:
- Beat softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and mix until light and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes by hand.
Step 2: Stir in Flavorings
Mix in vanilla extract (or almond), and optional orange zest for a fragrant finish.
Step 3: Add Dry Ingredients Gradually
Gradually mix in:
- Flour
- Salt
Stir gently until the dough starts to come together.
Don’t overmix — shortbread is best when handled minimally.
Step 4: Fold in Cranberries & Pistachios
Gently fold in:
- Dried cranberries
- Chopped pistachios
Use your hands if needed — this helps keep the nuts and berries evenly distributed.
Step 5: Shape the Dough
Option 1: Slice-and-bake style
- Roll the dough into a log (about 2-inch diameter).
- Wrap in parchment or plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes .
- Slice into rounds and place on baking sheet.
Option 2: Press & Cut Style
- Press the dough into a greased tart pan or rectangle.
- Chill, then cut into squares or diamonds after baking.
Step 6: Bake Until Light Gold
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) .
Bake sliced cookies or pressed slab for 18–22 minutes , or until edges are lightly golden.
Let cool completely before handling.
Step 7: Cool & Finish With Flair
Once cooled, you can:
- Sprinkle with extra powdered sugar for classic shortbread elegance.
- Drizzle with white chocolate or glaze for extra holiday flair.
- Top with whole pistachios or cranberries for gourmet presentation.
🍵 Serving Suggestions
- With a warm mug of chai, coffee, or spiced tea .
- Try them stacked with orange marmalade or mascarpone spread .
- Perfect alongside a cheese board or fruit platter .
- Ideal for homemade gift boxes or cookie exchanges .
- Pair with a glass of sparkling cider .
🥡 Storage & Reheating Tips
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers for up to 2 weeks .
- Freezer: Freeze baked cookies in ziplock bags for up to 3 months . Thaw at room temperature.
- Make Ahead: The dough can be made and chilled overnight — slice and bake fresh when ready.
- Reheating: Warm in oven at 300°F (150°C) for a freshly baked feel.
✅ Expert Tips for Success
- Use room temperature butter for smoother mixing.
- Don’t skip chilling the dough — it helps maintain shape and texture.
- Want extra richness? Add a splash of orange blossom water or rosewater .
- Swap cranberries with dried cherries or apricots for different flavor profiles.
- Make it nut-free : Replace pistachios with sunflower seeds or oats.
🧠 Nutritional Highlights
While indulgent, these cookies offer some health perks:
- Butter delivers vitamin A and healthy fats in moderation.
- Pistachios provide protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
- Dried cranberries offer antioxidants and natural sugars.
- Enjoy one or two per day as part of a balanced lifestyle.
📝 Final Thoughts
These Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies prove that simple ingredients can create something truly special. With their buttery richness, tart-sweet balance, and festive colors, they’re a celebration of texture and taste in every bite.
Whether you’re making them for the holidays, packing them for tea time, or wrapping them up as gifts, this recipe brings warmth, elegance, and pure joy to your kitchen.
So grab your rolling pin, chop those pistachios, and get ready to fall in love with every soft, nutty, cranberry-studded bite!
