If you’re looking for a premium bakery-style cookie recipe that feels luxurious yet simple to make, these Pistachio Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are the perfect choice. With their buttery texture, vibrant green pistachios, and ruby-red dried cranberries, these cookies are ideal for holiday baking, Christmas dessert platters, tea parties, and even gourmet food gifting. The delicate crumb combined with the slight tartness of cranberries creates a balanced flavor profile that tastes like something straight from a high-end pastry shop.
These cookies are especially popular in festive seasons because they look elegant and photograph beautifully — making them perfect for food blogs, Pinterest traffic, and high RPM food content monetization.
🥄 Ingredients
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1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting)
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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¼ teaspoon salt
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½ cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
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½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
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Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for extra tenderness)
🍪 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth. Add powdered sugar and continue mixing until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and cornstarch (if using). Gradually add the dry mixture into the butter mixture until just combined.
Step 3: Add Mix-Ins
Fold in chopped pistachios and dried cranberries. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 45–60 minutes. This step ensures thick, tender cookies and prevents spreading.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop dough into small balls and place on a lined baking tray. Flatten slightly with your palm.
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Step 6: Cool & Finish
Let cookies cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar for a gourmet finish.
✨ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Perfect for holiday cookie exchanges
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Elegant enough for corporate gift baskets
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Easy beginner baking recipe
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High-end bakery flavor at home
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Great for festive content marketing & food photography
🧊 Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freeze baked cookies for up to 2 months for long-term dessert planning.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use salted pistachios?
Yes, but reduce added salt in the recipe to maintain balance.
Can I substitute dried cranberries?
Absolutely. Try dried cherries, raisins, or even white chocolate chips.
Why did my shortbread spread too much?
The dough may not have been chilled long enough. Always refrigerate before baking.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
How do I make them extra soft?
Adding cornstarch creates a softer, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
These Pistachio Cranberry Shortbread Cookies are a profitable addition to any food blog, holiday baking menu, or home bakery business. With premium ingredients like pistachios and dried cranberries, they give that gourmet touch customers love.
