Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

by

Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

 Description

Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies are tender, buttery (without butter!), and delicately sweet cookies made with olive oil. The tart dried cranberries balance beautifully with crunchy pistachios, while the olive oil gives a rich, smooth texture and a subtle depth of flavor. These cookies are perfect for holidays, tea time, or as a healthier everyday treat.

 Ingredients

  • 1 cup olive oil (light or extra-virgin)

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 2¼ cups all-purpose flour

  • ¼ teaspoon salt

  • ¾ cup dried cranberries

  • ½ cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

  • Zest of 1 orange or lemon (optional, but recommended)

 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking pan with parchment paper.

  2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil and sugar until well combined.

  3. Stir in vanilla extract and citrus zest if using.

  4. In a separate bowl, combine flour and salt.

  5. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

  6. Fold in cranberries and pistachios evenly.

  7. Press the dough into the prepared pan (about ½-inch thick).

  8. Bake for 22–28 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

  9. Let cool slightly, then slice into squares or wedges.

  10. Cool completely before serving for best texture.

Notes & Tips

  • Use light olive oil if you prefer a more neutral flavor.

  • Chill the dough for 20 minutes if it feels too soft.

  • For crispier cookies, bake an additional 3–5 minutes.

  • Dust lightly with powdered sugar once cooled for a festive look.

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.

 Servings

  • Makes 12–16 cookies, depending on size

 Nutritional Information (per cookie, approx.)

  • Calories: 180

  • Fat: 11g

  • Carbohydrates: 18g

  • Sugar: 7g

  • Protein: 2g

  • Fiber: 1g

 Health Benefits

  • Olive oil provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.

  • Pistachios are rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants.

  • Cranberries support urinary and immune health.

  • Dairy-free and naturally cholesterol-free.

 Q & A

Q: Can I replace olive oil with butter?
A: Yes. Use 1 cup softened unsalted butter instead.

Q: Are these cookies vegan?
A: Yes, as written they are fully vegan.

Q: Can I make them gluten-free?
A: Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Q: Can I freeze the cookies?
A: Absolutely. Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.

Leave a Comment