You know those afternoons when you just need a little moment of quiet? Maybe the kids are finally napping, or you’ve stolen five minutes before the school run. That’s when I love to put the kettle on and bake something simple, but special.
For me, that something is often a batch of these cherry pistachio shortbread cookies. They’re buttery, just sweet enough, and the pop of red cherry against the green pistachio makes them look like tiny, edible jewels. It’s a recipe that feels like a hug, and sharing a plate of these homemade cherry pistachio shortbread cookies with my family is one of my favorite ways to say “I love you.”
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS CHERRY PISTACHIO SHORTBREAD RECIPE
These cherry pistachio shortbread cookies are a true delight. First, they come together with just one bowl. You also don’t need any fancy equipment.
Furthermore, the combination of rich butter, tart dried cherries, and salty pistachios is simply irresistible. Ultimately, these cookies are perfect for gifting, potlucks, or your own well-deserved treat.
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Cherry pistachio shortbread cookies
- Total Time: 60 mins
- Yield: About 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Buttery cherry pistachio shortbread cookies with tart dried cherries and crunchy pistachios, perfect for afternoon tea or gifting.
Ingredients
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
2/3 cup dried cherries, chopped
2/3 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line baking sheet with parchment
- In large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until just combined. Mix in vanilla
- Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until soft dough forms
- Fold in chopped dried cherries and pistachios by hand
- Divide dough in half. Shape each half into 2-inch diameter log. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes
- Slice logs into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place on prepared sheet, spacing 1 inch apart
- Bake 18-22 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool on sheet 5 minutes before transferring to rack
Notes
Use room temperature butter for easy mixing. Do not overmix dough after adding flour.
For perfectly round cookies, roll the log on counter every few minutes while chilling.
Store in airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. Dough logs can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 18-22 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 40mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: shortbread, cookies, cherry, pistachio
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|
| 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened | The star for that classic shortbread texture. |
| 1/2 cup granulated sugar | Keeps the cookies delicately sweet. |
| 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract | Adds warm flavor depth. |
| 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour | For structure. |
| 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt | Balances the sweetness perfectly. |
| 2/3 cup dried cherries, chopped | Provides a lovely tart chew. |
| 2/3 cup shelled pistachios, chopped | Adds crunch and a beautiful green color. |
Substitutions & Variations
Don’t have pistachios? Almonds or pecans work wonderfully. For the cherries, try dried cranberries or chopped apricots.
You can also add a hint of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist. Feeling festive? A drizzle of dark chocolate over the cooled cherry pistachio shortbread cookies is divine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment. Then, in a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until just combined.
- Next, mix in the vanilla. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Finally, fold in the chopped dried cherries and pistachios by hand.
- Now, divide the dough in half. Shape each half into a log about 2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs tightly in plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- This step is key for sliceable cookies! After chilling, slice the logs into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Place them on your prepared sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, until the edges are just lightly golden. Let the cherry pistachio shortbread cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes before moving them to a rack.
Pro Tips for Success
Always use room temperature butter for easy mixing. Importantly, do not overmix the dough once you add the flour. Overmixing makes tough cookies. Additionally, for perfectly round cherry pistachio shortbread cookies, roll the log on the counter every few minutes while chilling to maintain its shape.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store your cooled cherry pistachio shortbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. You can also freeze the unbaked dough logs for up to 3 months; simply slice and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes. For a fresh-from-the-oven feel, warm a cookie in the microwave for 10 seconds.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These cherry pistachio shortbread cookies pair beautifully with a cup of afternoon tea or coffee. They also make a lovely dessert alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a holiday tray, arrange them with other simple treats. A plate of these homemade cherry pistachio shortbread cookies is always a welcome gift.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but omit the added salt in the recipe. The balance is important for these cherry pistachio shortbread cookies.
Why did my cookies spread?
The butter was likely too warm. Ensure your dough logs are well-chilled before slicing and baking.
Can I make these gluten-free?
I’ve had success using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly more crumbly, but still delicious.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount (per cookie) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~120 kcal |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.5g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Protein | 1.5g |
Shortbread is a traditional Scottish biscuit known for its rich, buttery texture and crumbly consistency, often enjoyed during festive occasions. This classic treat has evolved into countless variations, including modern recipes that incorporate nuts and dried fruits for added flavor and texture. Learn more about its origins and cultural significance on the Shortbread Wikipedia page.