When it comes to baking, pistachios add a unique and delicious twist to any cookie recipe. Whether you’re looking for a classic shortbread or something more adventurous, pistachios bring a nutty flavor and crunchy texture that’s hard to resist. In this article, we’ll explore 20 scrumptious pistachio cookie recipes perfect for every occasion, from special treats to everyday snacks.
From sweet and indulgent to savory and unique, these recipes showcase the versatility of pistachios in baking. With flavors ranging from classic vanilla to exotic rosewater, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, we’ll guide you through each recipe with clear instructions and helpful tips.
So grab your mixing bowls and preheat your oven – it’s time to get baking!
Classic Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
Classic Pistachio Shortbread Cookies Recipe
A traditional shortbread cookie infused with the nutty flavor of pistachios, perfect for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Fold in chopped pistachios.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Yield: Approximately 24 cookies
Pistachio and White Chocolate Chip Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the nutty flavor of pistachios with the creamy sweetness of white chocolate chips, perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Stir in pistachios and white chocolate chips.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lemon Pistachio Thumbprint Cookies
Brighten up your holiday season with these delightful lemon pistachio thumbprint cookies, perfect for gift-giving or a festive treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, butter, and sugar until smooth.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in lemon juice and pistachios.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Use a thumb or a cookie cutter to create thumbprint shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each.
8. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Tips: Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired). Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Pistachio Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the crunch of pistachios with the sweetness of cranberries and the warmth of oatmeal. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped fresh or dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in eggs, vanilla extract, cranberries, and pistachios.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Double Chocolate Pistachio Cookies
Treat your taste buds to a delightful combination of dark chocolate, crunchy pistachios, and buttery goodness. These cookies are perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in chocolate chips and pistachios.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio Cardamom Sugar Cookies
These sweet and aromatic cookies combine the nutty flavor of pistachios with the warm, spicy sweetness of cardamom. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup finely ground pistachios
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add pistachios, cardamom, and egg; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio Rosewater Cookies
These delicate cookies combine the nutty flavor of pistachios with the subtle sweetness of rosewater, creating a unique and exotic treat.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
• 1/2 teaspoon rosewater
• Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in chopped pistachios and rosewater.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Orange Pistachio Biscotti
These crunchy Italian cookies are infused with the bright flavors of orange zest and pistachios, making them a perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 2 tablespoons orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped pistachios
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, orange juice, and egg. Add the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
4. Fold in pistachios and orange zest.
5. Divide the dough into 2 equal pieces and shape each into a log about 12 inches (30cm) long.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven, let cool for 10 minutes, then slice into 1/2-inch thick slices.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pistachio Butter Cookies with Honey Drizzle
Pistachio Butter Cookies with Honey Drizzle
These chewy cookies are infused with the nutty flavor of pistachios and a hint of honey, making them a sweet and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup pistachio butter
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Honey for drizzling (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and pistachio butter until creamy. Add sugar and beat until combined.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons are infused with the richness of pistachios and the creaminess of coconut, making them a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, confectioners’ sugar, pistachios, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the dry ingredients into the egg mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio Almond Flour Cookies
A delicious and crumbly cookie recipe perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. This Pistachio Almond Flour Cookie recipe is not only tasty but also gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Optional: 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for added sweetness
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream butter and egg until smooth. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in chopped pistachios.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pistachio Espresso Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the richness of espresso with the nutty flavor of pistachios, making them a unique and delicious treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, followed by pistachios and espresso powder.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pistachio Cherry Dark Chocolate Cookies
Pistachio Cherry Dark Chocolate Cookies Recipe
Experience the perfect combination of sweet and savory with these Pistachio Cherry Dark Chocolate Cookies. Crunchy pistachios, chewy cherries, and rich dark chocolate come together in a cookie that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 cup dried cherries
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
4. Fold in pistachios, cherries, and dark chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
Yield: 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes per batch
Pistachio Snickerdoodle Cookies
These chewy cookies combine the warmth of cinnamon and sugar with the nutty flavor of pistachios, creating a unique and irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined. Stir in pistachios.
5. Roll dough into balls, about 1 tablespoon each. Place onto prepared baking sheet, leaving space between cookies.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pistachio Maple Glazed Cookies
Pistachio Maple Glazed Cookies Recipe
Sweet and nutty, these pistachio maple glazed cookies are a perfect treat to satisfy your cravings. With the combination of crunchy pistachios and sticky maple glaze, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– Maple glaze (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pistachios.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Maple Glaze:
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Whisk together until smooth. Drizzle over warm cookies and serve.
Pistachio Lavender Shortbread
Experience the harmony of pistachios and lavender in this sweet and savory shortbread recipe. With a subtle nutty flavor and a hint of floral sweetness, these buttery cookies are perfect for a warm-weather treat or as a gift for the foodie in your life.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped pistachios and dried lavender buds.
5. Roll out the dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio Pumpkin Spice Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies combine the warmth of pumpkin spice with the nutty flavor of pistachios, making them a perfect treat for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and pumpkin puree.
4. Stir in flour mixture, pistachios, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between cookies.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pistachio Matcha Green Tea Cookies
Experience the perfect blend of nutty pistachio and bright, grassy matcha green tea in these unique cookies.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon matcha green tea powder
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Colored sprinkles (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Add matcha green tea powder and mix until combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Fold in chopped pistachios. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pistachio Peanut Butter Cookies
These soft-baked cookies combine the richness of peanut butter with the crunch and nutty flavor of pistachios. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– Optional: sea salt for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream peanut butter and butter until smooth. Add sugar and beat until combined.
4. Beat in the egg. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in chopped pistachios.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pistachio Cinnamon Roll Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with these soft and chewy Pistachio Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Infused with the warm aroma of cinnamon and the nutty flavor of pistachios, these treats are perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in the flour mixture until just combined, then fold in pistachios and cinnamon.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Indulge your sweet tooth with these 20 delectable pistachio cookie recipes! From classic shortbread to creative combinations like lemon and white chocolate chip, there’s something for every occasion. Get inspired by unique flavors such as cardamom sugar, rosewater, and matcha green tea. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving, these cookies are sure to impress. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this collection of pistachio cookie recipes has something for everyone. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy the delicious results!