Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients and Oven

* Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
* Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
* Chop cranberries and pistachios roughly, keeping some pieces larger for texture.

#### Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

* In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
* The creaming process incorporates air, resulting in a lighter cookie texture.

#### Step 3: Add Vanilla Extract (Optional)

* Mix in the vanilla extract for added aroma and flavor.

#### Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

* In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and salt.
* Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing on low speed or folding gently to avoid overworking the dough.

#### Step 5: Add Cranberries and Pistachios

* Gently fold the chopped cranberries and pistachios into the dough.
* Ensure even distribution without crushing the nuts.

#### Step 6: Shape the Cookies

* For classic shortbread rounds: Roll dough into a log, about 2 inches in diameter, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
* Slice the log into 1/4-inch thick rounds before baking.
* Alternatively, scoop dough by tablespoons and flatten slightly on the baking sheet.

#### Step 7: Bake

* Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart.
* Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are just turning golden.
* Avoid overbaking for a tender crumb.

#### Step 8: Cool and Store

* Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
* Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

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## Tips for Perfect Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

* **Butter Temperature:** Use softened, not melted butter. This keeps the dough from becoming greasy.
* **Don’t Overwork the Dough:** Handle gently to maintain crumbly texture.
* **Chill the Dough:** Helps control spread during baking and enhances flavors.
* **Use Fresh Ingredients:** Fresh nuts and cranberries ensure vibrant flavors.
* **Roast Nuts for Extra Flavor:** Lightly roasting pistachios enhances nuttiness.
* **Adjust Sweetness:** If you prefer less sweet, reduce sugar slightly.
* **Experiment with Flours:** A mix of all-purpose and almond flour creates a nutty, tender bite.

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## Variations on Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

### 1. White Chocolate Drizzle

Melt white chocolate and drizzle over cooled cookies for added sweetness and elegance.

### 2. Orange Zest Infusion

Add 1 tablespoon of fresh orange zest to the dough for citrus brightness that complements cranberries.

### 3. Salted Caramel Dip

Serve cookies with salted caramel sauce for dipping or drizzle.

### 4. Gluten-Free Version

Use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure dried cranberries are gluten-free.

### 5. Vegan Adaptation

Replace butter with vegan butter substitutes and use maple syrup or coconut sugar for sweetness.

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## Creative Serving Ideas for Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

* **Holiday Gift Boxes:** Package beautifully in tins or boxes lined with festive paper.
* **Cookie Platters:** Serve alongside other cookies, nuts, and fruit for holiday parties.
* **With Tea or Coffee:** These cookies pair perfectly with hot beverages.
* **Dessert Garnish:** Crumble over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for texture.
* **With Cheese Boards:** Complement with mild cheeses for a savory-sweet snack.

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## Storing and Shelf Life

* Store cookies in airtight containers at room temperature for up to two weeks.
* For longer storage, freeze cookies in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
* Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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## Nutritional Information (Approximate per Cookie)

* Calories: 120-150
* Fat: 7-9g
* Carbohydrates: 12-15g
* Protein: 2g
* Fiber: 1g

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## Frequently Asked Questions

### Can I use fresh cranberries?

Fresh cranberries are too tart and watery for shortbread. Dried cranberries provide the right sweetness and texture.

### Can I substitute pistachios with other nuts?

Yes! Walnuts, pecans, or almonds work well but alter flavor and texture.

### How do I keep cookies from spreading too much?

Chill dough before baking and avoid over-creaming butter and sugar.

### Can I make dough ahead?

Yes! Dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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## The Perfect Occasions for Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

These cookies shine at:

* Christmas and holiday parties
* Weddings and bridal showers
* Afternoon tea gatherings
* Gift exchanges and cookie swaps
* Cozy winter nights by the fire

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## Step-By-Step Visual Guide (Optional)

Consider creating photos or videos showing each step: creaming butter, mixing dough, shaping cookies, baking, cooling, and serving. Visual aids help beginners follow along perfectly.

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## Final Thoughts

Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are more than just a treat—they are a celebration of textures, colors, and festive flavors that bring people together. Their buttery crumb, tart bursts of cranberry, and crunch of pistachios make each bite memorable.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to cookies, this recipe is straightforward, forgiving, and endlessly customizable. Make a batch today, share with loved ones, and enjoy a timeless cookie that embodies the spirit of the holidays and beyond.

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If you want, I can also provide a printable recipe card, shopping list, or suggestions for complementary drinks and desserts. Just ask!