What kind of recipe is it?
Pistachio Cranberry Christmas Cookies are a festive treat that combines the nutty richness of pistachios with the tart sweetness of cranberries, making them a delightful addition to any holiday dessert table.
These cookies are characterized by their vibrant green and red colors, representing the spirit of Christmas. Easy to make, they cater to both novice bakers and seasoned chefs looking for a delicious, unique cookie option.
Perfect for gifting or sharing at holiday gatherings, they’re sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ½ cups |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (room temperature) |
| Granulated sugar | ¾ cup |
| Brown sugar | ¾ cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Shelled pistachios | 1 cup (chopped) |
| Dried cranberries | 1 cup (chopped) |
| White chocolate chips | ½ cup (optional) |
Feel free to adjust the quantities as desired for customization!
Cooking Steps
- Preheat oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Position the rack in the center of the oven to guarantee even baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups (315 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt until combined.
- In a separate bowl, cream together 1 cup (240 g) of unsalted butter (room temperature), ¾ cup (150 g) of granulated sugar, and ¾ cup (150 g) of brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 2 large eggs to the butter mixture, continuing to mix until well combined, about 1 minute.
- Gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Avoid over-mixing to maintain a tender cookie texture.
- Fold in 1 cup (150 g) of chopped shelled pistachios and 1 cup (150 g) of chopped dried cranberries with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
- If using, fold in ½ cup (90 g) of white chocolate chips until well mixed.
- Line a baking sheet (approx. 38 x 26 cm / 15 x 10 in) with parchment paper. Using a cookie scoop or two tablespoons, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are slightly soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. This will help them set.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely for an additional 10–15 minutes. Aim for a slightly soft texture in the center with a golden-brown underside.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for longer storage, guaranteeing they’re layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Variations
- Dark Chocolate Pistachio Cookies: Substitute white chocolate chips with ½ cup (90 g) of dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor experience.
- Vegan Cranberry Cookies: Replace unsalted butter with 1 cup (240 g) of coconut oil and use flax eggs (2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water) instead of eggs.
- Gluten-Free Pistachio Cookies: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate those with gluten sensitivity.
- Cinnamon-Spiced Holiday Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a festive flavor twist.
Tips on plating and presentation
When trying out different variations of Pistachio Cranberry Christmas Cookies, it’s easy to get excited about the flavors, but presentation also plays a key role in making your treats stand out.
To showcase these cookies beautifully, I like to arrange them on a festive platter, mixing in elements like evergreen sprigs or cranberries for color contrast. A sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, too.
For an extra pop, consider displaying them in decorative cupcake liners.
If I’m feeling creative, I’ll layer them in a clear jar tied with a holiday ribbon for a charming gift.
What other dishes can I pair it with?
While enjoying my Pistachio Cranberry Christmas Cookies, I often think about what other dishes can elevate the festive experience.
These cookies pair wonderfully with a light and invigorating cheese platter. Think creamy brie or tangy goat cheese, balanced by fresh fruits like pears or apples.
For something heartier, a sage or roasted butternut squash salad can complement the sweet notes of the cookies, creating a delightful contrast.
I also love incorporating spiced nuts or candied pecans, which echo the flavors in the cookies.
For a savory touch, serving them alongside herbed crostini topped with fig jam can enhance the taste adventure.
Ultimately, each addition creates a diverse spread that makes gatherings feel extra special and memorable.
What drinks can I pair it with?
Since the sweet and nutty flavors of my Pistachio Cranberry Christmas Cookies create a festive vibe, I love pairing them with drinks that enhance that holiday spirit.
A warm cup of spiced apple cider is a perfect match; its cinnamon notes complement the cookies beautifully.
If you’re in the mood for something more invigorating, a light, bubbly prosecco adds a touch of sparkle and balances the sweetness.
For those who prefer a rich beverage, a velvety hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of sea salt elevates the experience.
Finally, a classic eggnog creates a cozy atmosphere that feels just like Christmas.
No matter which drink you choose, your holiday gathering will feel extra special!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze Pistachio Cranberry Christmas Cookies for Later Use?
I freeze pistachio cranberry cookies all the time. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or a freezer bag. When you’re ready, I let them thaw at room temperature, and they taste fresh again!
How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?
These cookies stay fresh for about a week at room temperature in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, I recommend freezing them—perfectly tasty even after a couple of months!
Are There Nut-Free Alternatives for This Recipe?
I often substitute nuts with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch. Dried fruits or oats can also add texture. It’s all about experimenting to find what you love!
Can I Use Roasted Pistachios Instead of Raw?
Absolutely, I’ve used roasted pistachios in my recipes before, and they add a delightful flavor. Just keep in mind they might be a bit saltier, so adjust your other ingredients accordingly for balance. Enjoy baking!
What’s the History Behind These Holiday Cookies?
Holiday cookies have roots in ancient traditions, evolving from simple baked goods to festive treats. I love how families create unique recipes over generations, blending flavors and memories, making each cookie a celebration of history and joy.
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