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Pistachio Wedding Cookies: The Perfect Treat for Your Big Day Recipe

4.1 from 80 reviews

These Pistachio Wedding Cookies are delicate, buttery treats enriched with finely ground pistachios and a hint of almond extract. Perfectly soft with a light crunch and finished with a dusting of powdered sugar, they make an elegant and delicious addition to any wedding dessert table or special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Cookie Dough

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract
  • 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup shelled, unsalted pistachios, finely ground

For Dusting

  • Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the softened butter together with the granulated sugar and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Add the Extracts: Mix in the vanilla extract and almond extract until just combined, ensuring an even flavor throughout the dough.
  3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasoning.
  4. Grind the Pistachios: Using a food processor, pulse the shelled, unsalted pistachios until they reach a finely ground consistency, but avoid turning them into a paste.
  5. Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Pistachios: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients on low speed, mixing just until combined. Then fold in the ground pistachios until evenly distributed.
  6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up, making it easier to shape.
  7. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  8. Shape the Cookies: Remove chilled dough and roll into 1-inch diameter balls. Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart to allow for slight spreading.
  9. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are lightly golden, but the centers remain soft.
  10. Cool the Cookies: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, preventing breakage.
  11. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once fully cooled, generously dust the cookies with powdered sugar to add a classic finishing touch and extra sweetness.
  12. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • For a nuttier flavor, lightly toast the pistachios before grinding.
  • If you prefer a stronger almond flavor, you can increase the almond extract to 1 teaspoon.
  • Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for best creaming results.
  • Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading and keeps cookies tender.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.

Keywords: pistachio cookies, wedding cookies, nut cookies, almond extract cookies, powdered sugar cookies, holiday dessert, soft cookies