Pistachios shortbread cookies are a classic make-ahead slice and bake recipe that’s perfect for the holidays or any time. If you need something exciting for your Christmas cookie tray, these chocolate-dipped pistachio cookies are buttery and crisp.
In a bowl of a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, beat together butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar until light and creamy. On medium speed for about 5 minutes. Scrape the bowl a few times during the process.
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt, then turn the mixer to its lowest speed and gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture.
Use a spatula to fold in all of the pistachios.
Transfer the firm yet pliable dough onto a large sheet of parchment paper. Roll the dough into a 10” log, about 2 inches thick. Wrap the dough in parchment paper and refrigerate for about 3 hours or overnight.
Once the dough is firm, cut the log into ¼” rounds. Place cookies onto the baking sheet lined with parchment paper about 1 inch apart. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 13-15 minutes or until lightly golden on the edge.
Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, and then transfer to the cooling rack to cool completely.
Melt the chocolate using a microwave or double boiler.
Dip cookies into the melted chocolate and place them on the parchment paper to set. If desired, sprinkle with extra chopped pistachios and coarse salt or salt flakes.
Notes
Start with softened, room-temperature butter.
Measure carefully. Use too much flour and the cookies will be dry and crumbly.
We used a mix of finely chopped and whole pistachios, but you can chop them all if preferred.
Rotate the dough log a quarter turn after every slice. This ensures that one side will not get squished down as you slice, and you will have a perfectly round shape.
Use a sharp serrated knife to cut the cookies.
If the dough warms and softens, pop it in the freezer for a few minutes.
Leave plenty of space between the cookies, as they will spread a little.
If cooking in batches cool the pans completely before adding more cookies.