Description
A delightful pistachio lemon shortbread recipe that combines rich, nutty pistachios with the sunny zing of fresh lemon. This simple, elegant treat requires no special equipment and comes together with humble ingredients, making it perfect for tea time or as a gourmet snack.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup powdered sugar
Zest of 2 large lemons
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
3/4 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
Instructions
- Cream Butter & Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy (2-3 minutes)
- Add Flavor: Beat in the fresh lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until fully combined
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped pistachios with a spatula
- Shape & Chill: Divide the dough in half. Shape each half into a log about 1.5 inches in diameter. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and chill for at least 2 hours, or until very firm
- Slice & Bake: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Slice the chilled logs into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Place on parchment-lined baking sheets, sprinkle with extra pistachio pieces, and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until edges are lightly golde
- Cool Completely: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely
Notes
Use room temperature butter for best creaming results.
Chilling the dough logs is essential to prevent spreading and ensure clean slices.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
For a nut-free version, omit pistachios for a plain lemon shortbread.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 22 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 110 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 33mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 14mg
Keywords: shortbread, pistachio, lemon, cookies, dessert