Name: Pistachio Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 31 min
Ingredients: 1 cup pistachios; ½ cup butter; ½ cup sugar; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon almond extract; 1 cup flour; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup salted pistachios; ⅔ cup chocolate chips

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There’s something incredibly nostalgic about baking cookies, and my go-to recipe for Pistachio Cookies always takes me back to cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen with my grandmother. As the scent of warm cookies wafts through the air, it evokes memories of laughter and family gatherings. I remember the excitement of watching those beautiful green morsels come together with sweet chocolate chips and creamy butter. These cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a testament to the delightful power of simple ingredients harmoniously blended together. I love how they create a perfect balance of crunch and softness, making them a delightful snack for any occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
31 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
11 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
140 kcal

Protein:
2g g

Diet:
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP

Fat:
7g g

Tools Used:
Blender, Food Processor, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

The Beauty of This Pistachio Cookies

They’re Irresistibly Delicious

First and foremost, the flavor profile of Pistachio Cookies is simply divine. The earthy, nutty flavor of the fresh pistachios combined with the sweetness of chocolate chips creates a taste sensation that’s both comforting and indulgent. You won’t be able to eat just one!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a Sunday brunch or looking for a sweet treat to accompany your afternoon tea, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Their vibrant green color adds a pop of freshness to dessert tables and they pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea.

Easy to Make

One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a batch of cookies that look and taste like they came from a fancy bakery. Plus, the process is enjoyable—from grinding the pistachios to watching the cookies rise in the oven!

Great for Sharing

These cookies also make fantastic gifts! Imagine presenting a beautifully packaged jar of Pistachio Cookies to your friends or family. They’re perfect for sharing during holidays, birthdays, or just as a thoughtful gesture.

Nutritious and Satisfying

Unlike many cookies that are loaded with empty calories, Pistachio Cookies offer a touch of nutrition as well. Pistachios are packed with protein and healthy fats, giving you a satisfying treat that won’t leave you feeling guilty.

Flexible Recipe

Lastly, this recipe lends itself beautifully to variations. Want to add a hint of spice? A pinch of cinnamon works wonders. Prefer a little extra crunch? Toss in some chocolate chips or additional pistachios. The possibilities are endless!

Everything You Need for Pistachio Cookies

For making the perfect batch of Pistachio Cookies, it’s essential to gather high-quality ingredients that work in harmony. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that delightful cookie texture and flavor. The key players are the pistachios, which offer a creamy, nutty base, and the chocolate chips, which add sweetness and richness. Let’s break down these ingredients so you know exactly what to look for.

1 cup shelled raw pistachios: These should be fresh and unsalted for optimal flavor.
½ cup unsalted butter, softened: This binds the ingredients and adds richness.
½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetness is key, and this smooth sugar creates a lovely texture.
1 large egg, room temperature: This helps the cookies rise and provides structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer for sweet treats.
¼ teaspoon almond extract: This adds a subtle, fragrant note.
1 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for creating the cookie base.
2 teaspoons cornstarch: This helps achieve a chewy texture.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This ensures the cookies rise perfectly.
½ teaspoon baking soda: This contributes to the cookie’s spread and texture.
¼ teaspoon salt: A pinch brings out the sweetness.
½ cup salted pistachios, roughly chopped: For extra crunch and flavor.
⅔ cup chocolate chips: Choose your favorite variety for additional sweetness!

How to Assemble Pistachio Cookies

Making Pistachio Cookies is a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and sweetness. Let’s take it step by step to ensure your cookies turn out perfectly every time. Just follow this simple guide and you’ll have delicious cookies to enjoy shortly!

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This step is crucial as it prevents the cookies from sticking and allows for even baking.
Add the pistachios to a food processor or blender and pulse them until they are finely ground, resembling a coarse meal. This will integrate their flavor into the cookies beautifully.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Using a stand or hand mixer, beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. This aeration is key to fluffy cookies!
Once fluffy, add the egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, and the ground pistachios to the bowl. Mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies.
Next, use a spatula to gently fold in the chopped pistachios and chocolate chips. This not only adds flavor but also visual appeal.
Use a medium cookie scoop, about 2 to 2 and a half tablespoons, to portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space between each scoop to allow for spreading.
Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 11 minutes. You’re looking for the edges to start turning golden brown while the center stays soft.
Once baked, take the cookies out and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 3 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. This step is essential for letting them set and maintain their structure.

Things Worth Knowing

Check Freshness: Always use fresh pistachios as they greatly enhance the flavor and texture of your cookies.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and egg are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
Do Not Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until combined to keep the cookies tender.
Cool Properly: Allow cookies to cool on the sheet before transferring to avoid breaking.

Change It Up

There are so many ways to enjoy and personalize your Pistachio Cookies. Here are some creative ideas to make this recipe your own!

Add Spices: Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nut Variations: You can substitute the pistachios with other nuts like almonds or walnuts for different tastes.
Chocolate Swaps: Use white chocolate or dark chocolate chips instead of standard to change the flavor profile.
Extra Crunch: For added texture, fold in some oats or use a mix of chopped nuts.
Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Freezing: These cookies freeze well! Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
Pairing: Enjoy these cookies with a glass of milk, a cup of tea, or coffee for an afternoon treat.

Serving Ideas for Pistachio Cookies

When it comes to serving Pistachio Cookies, the options are endless! Here are some ideas that will elevate your cookie experience:

With Coffee or Tea: These cookies make an excellent accompaniment to your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Cookie Platters: Perfect for gatherings or parties, arrange them on a platter with other cookies for a delightful treat.
Gift Jars: Package your cookies in glass jars tied with a ribbon for thoughtful gifts.
Picnic Snacks: They’re a great addition to picnic baskets, easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
Seasonal Celebrations: Enjoy these cookies during holidays and special occasions, or simply as a midday pick-me-up!

FAQ

Pistachio Cookies are not just any cookie; they offer a unique flavor profile that combines the nutty richness of pistachios with the sweetness of chocolate chips. This delightful combination makes them stand out from regular cookies. The texture is also exceptional—crispy on the edges while remaining chewy in the center. Plus, their vibrant green color adds a visual appeal that’s perfect for any gathering!

To achieve a chewier cookie, consider slightly underbaking them, leaving them in the oven just until the edges turn golden but the center remains soft. Additionally, adding an extra egg yolk or using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar can increase the moisture in your cookies, resulting in a chewier texture. Remember that cooling them on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack is also crucial for maintaining that chewy center!

Yes, you can use salted pistachios in your cookies! However, be mindful of the salt you add to the recipe. If using salted nuts, consider reducing the amount of salt in the recipe to balance the flavors better. The salty-sweet combination can be quite delightful and add an enjoyable contrast to the overall flavor!

To keep your Pistachio Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their texture and flavor for up to a week. If you want to enjoy them for a longer duration, consider freezing them. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe container. They can last up to three months in the freezer!

Conclusion

In summary, Pistachio Cookies bring together the nutty richness of pistachios and the sweetness of chocolate for a delightful treat. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy these delicious cookies, whether for a special occasion or just a cozy night in!