Pistachio Shortbread Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: With only five basic ingredients, these cookies are easy to prepare and require minimal effort.
• Buttery Texture: The high-fat content of the butter ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Nutty Flavor: Chopped pistachios add a delightful crunch and a subtle, earthy taste.
• Chocolate Coating: Dipping the cookies in dark chocolate elevates their flavor and adds a touch of elegance.
• Versatile: These cookies are perfect for holidays, special occasions, or as a sweet treat any time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 sticks (227g) salted butter, softened to room temperature
• ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120g) shelled pistachios, finely chopped
• 4 oz (113g) dark chocolate, chopped

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing until just combined.
   • Fold in the finely chopped pistachios until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

2. Shape and Chill:

   • Transfer the dough onto a piece of plastic wrap, shape it into a log approximately 2 inches in diameter, and wrap it tightly.
   • Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour to firm up.

3. Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
   • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Remove the dough from the refrigerator and slice it into ¼-inch thick rounds.
   • Place the slices onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden brown.
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Dip in Chocolate:

   • Once the cookies have cooled, melt the chopped dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth.
   • Dip half of each cookie into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off.
   • Place the dipped cookies back onto the wire rack and let the chocolate set completely.

5. Serve:

   • Enjoy these delightful cookies with a cup of tea or coffee.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 18 cookies
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes

Variations

• Different Nuts: Substitute pistachios with chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts for a different flavor profile.
• Chocolate Options: Use milk or white chocolate instead of dark chocolate for a sweeter taste.
• Flavor Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of almond extract to the dough for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled, chocolate-dipped cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze the unbaked dough log tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and baking.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?

Yes, you can use unsalted butter. If you do, add ¼ teaspoon of salt to the recipe to balance the flavors.

2. How can I prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking?

Ensure the dough is well-chilled before baking, and avoid overmixing the dough to prevent excess spreading.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! The dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.

4. What if I don’t have a food processor to chop the pistachios?

You can chop the pistachios by hand using a sharp knife or place them in a sealed plastic bag and crush them with a rolling pin until finely chopped.

5. Can I dip the cookies in white chocolate instead of dark chocolate?

Yes, white chocolate can be used for dipping if you prefer a sweeter taste.

6. How do I prevent the chocolate from melting too quickly at room temperature?

Tempering the chocolate can help it set properly and prevent it from melting too easily. For more information on tempering chocolate, refer to the recipe’s advanced tip section.

7. Can I add other flavorings to the dough?

Yes, adding a teaspoon of almond extract or vanilla extract can enhance the flavor of the cookies.

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