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Stack of cranberry & pistachio shortbread cookies on parchment

Cranberry & Pistachio Shortbread Cookies: 7 Pro Tips for Perfect Holiday Treats


  • Author: Velma
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

  • Bake Cranberry & Pistachio Shortbread Cookies with our easy guide—step‑by‑step instructions, festive twists, and pro tips for perfect holiday treats.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2/3 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp almond extract (optional, enhances the pistachio)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped shelled pistachios

Instructions

1. Make the Dough:

  1. In a large bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
  2. Mix in vanilla and almond extract (if using).
  3. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing just until combined.
  4. Fold in cranberries and pistachios.

2. Chill the Dough:

  • Divide the dough in half and shape into 2 logs (~2 inches thick).
  • Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 days).

    Tip: For perfectly round cookies, roll logs inside an empty paper towel tube!

3. Slice & Bake:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Slice dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place on the baking sheet about 1 inch apart.
  3. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
  4. Cool on a pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Cookie Recipes
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 140 kcal
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 5 mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 1.5g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

Keywords: Cranberry & Pistachio Shortbread Cookies