Quick Description
Buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies packed with tangy cranberries, crunchy pistachios, and a hint of cinnamon. Perfect for holidays or a cozy tea-time treat.
Servings & Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Bake Time: 12–14 minutes
- Total: ~1 hour
- Servings: 20–24 cookies
Ingredients List
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup (150 g) sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup dried cranberries (chopped)
- ½ cup chopped pistachios
- ½ cup small diced apple or pear (optional for moisture)
Instructions
- Mix the Base:
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add egg yolks and beat until smooth. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mix until a dough forms. - Fold & Shape:
Stir in pistachios, cranberries, and diced apple. Shape into a log, wrap in plastic, and chill 30 minutes. - Slice & Bake:
Cut chilled dough into ½-inch slices. Arrange on parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–14 minutes until edges are golden. - Cool & Enjoy:
Let cool completely before serving. These cookies stay soft inside with a light crunch on the edges.
Additional Notes
- Add a drizzle of white chocolate for a holiday twist.
- Swap pistachios for almonds if preferred.
- Dough can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Brief Introduction
These cranberry pistachio cookies are buttery bites of comfort — sweet, tangy, and nutty all at once. They’re simple to make, yet look like something from a bakery window. Perfect for gifting or pairing with coffee.
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Add orange zest for a citrus aroma.
- Replace cranberries with chopped dates for natural sweetness.
- Use browned butter for a richer flavor depth.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use coconut oil (¾ cup) for a dairy-free version.
- Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour (low-carb).
- Replace sugar with monk fruit or erythritol to make it high-protein or keto-friendly.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Crumble cookies over Greek yogurt for a quick breakfast treat.
- Sandwich with protein frosting for a high-protein dessert.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Store in airtight container up to 1 week.
- Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months.
FAQs
Q: Can I make the dough ahead?
A: Yes! Chill up to 48 hours or freeze until ready to bake.
Q: How to make them protein-friendly?
A: Replace ½ cup flour with vanilla protein powder.
