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Homemade Pistachio Wedding Cookies Recipe

5 from 144 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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