Homemade Pistachio Wedding Cookies Recipe

Introduction

Pistachio Wedding Cookies are tender, buttery treats coated with powdered sugar and studded with finely chopped pistachios. These delicate cookies are perfect for special occasions, offering a subtle nutty flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra flavor)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped (or ground)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar using an electric or hand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using), mixing until combined.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the flour and salt to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Step 5: Stir in the finely chopped or ground pistachios until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Step 6: Using a tablespoon or your hands, roll the dough into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 1 inch apart.
7. Step 7: Bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden but the cookies remain pale.
8. Step 8: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Step 9: Once cooled, dust the cookies generously with powdered sugar to coat lightly.
10. Step 10: Serve these delicate cookies on elegant trays or gift boxes, perfect for weddings and special occasions.

Tips & Variations

• For a more intense pistachio flavor, toast the pistachios lightly before chopping.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can finely grind the pistachios in a food processor.
• Replace almond extract with a few drops of rose water for a floral twist.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container with a piece of bread to keep them soft longer.

Storage

Store pistachio wedding cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, bring to room temperature and dust with additional powdered sugar if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, you can substitute finely chopped almonds, pecans, or walnuts for pistachios, though it will change the flavor profile slightly.

Why are my cookies crumbly after baking?

Make sure not to overbake them; they should remain pale with just lightly golden edges. Also, properly creaming the butter and sugar helps create a tender but cohesive dough.

Homemade Pistachio Wedding Cookies Recipe

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These Homemade Pistachio Wedding Cookies are delicate, buttery bite-sized treats featuring finely chopped pistachios and a light dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for weddings, holidays, or special occasions, these cookies combine a tender crumb with a subtle nutty flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Author: Amaya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cookies

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped or ground
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For Dusting

• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup powdered sugar using an electric or hand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step incorporates air for a tender texture.
3. Add Extracts: Blend in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using) until fully combined to enhance the cookie’s aroma and flavor.
4. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the creamed mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the dough, which can make the cookies tough.
5. Incorporate Pistachios: Fold in the finely chopped or ground pistachios, distributing them evenly throughout the dough for a consistent nutty flavor.
6. Form the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or your hands, roll the dough into small balls approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing each about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden while the centers remain pale. This indicates a soft and tender interior.
8. Cool and Coat: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sogginess.
9. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once fully cooled, generously dust the cookies with 1/4 cup powdered sugar, giving them their signature snowy and elegant look.
10. Serve: These Pistachio Wedding Cookies are perfect served on elegant trays or packaged in gift boxes for celebrations, weddings, or holiday gifting.

Notes

• For a finer texture, you can pulse the pistachios in a food processor until finely ground but be careful not to turn them into a paste.
• Almond extract is optional but adds a complementary flavor to the pistachios.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
• Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to maintain the fresh look and texture.
• If you prefer, you can substitute half of the pistachios with finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a different nutty twist.

Keywords: Pistachio Cookies, Wedding Cookies, Holiday Cookies, Nut Cookies, Powdered Sugar Cookies