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Jeweled Butter Cookies with Pistachios and Dried Fruit

Jeweled Butter Cookies with Pistachios and Dried Fruit

Jeweled Butter Cookies with Pistachios and Dried Fruit are buttery, tender cookies studded with vibrant pistachios and jewel-toned dried fruits that offer a perfect balance of rich flavor, pleasing texture, and festive appearance. These elegant cookies are ideal for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you want to impress with a colorful, crunchy, and melt-in-your-mouth treat.

  • Total Time: 27-30 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Basic Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Add-ins

  • 1/2 cup shelled and chopped pistachios
  • 1/2 cup mixed jewel-toned dried fruits (such as cherries, cranberries, apricots)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Soften the butter at room temperature for smooth creaming. Finely chop the pistachios and dried fruits while keeping them visible for visual appeal. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy to incorporate air and create a tender cookie texture.
  3. Add Vanilla Extract and Salt: Mix in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance sweetness and deepen flavor.
  4. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend) to the mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender and crumbly.
  5. Fold in Pistachios and Dried Fruits: Carefully fold in the chopped pistachios and dried fruits evenly throughout the dough without breaking them up excessively.
  6. Shape and Bake: Form the dough into small balls and place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly press each ball slightly flat to showcase the jeweled toppings. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden.
  7. Cool and Enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely, letting them firm up for easy handling and serving.

Notes

  • Use butter that is soft but not melted for a smooth dough.
  • Chop pistachios and dried fruits evenly for consistent texture and appearance.
  • Watch baking time carefully to keep cookies tender inside and avoid drying out.
  • If dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 15 minutes before baking to help it maintain shape.
  • Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
  • For an indulgent twist, drizzle cooled cookies with melted dark or white chocolate.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze for up to three months.
  • Reheat cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste; avoid microwaving.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg

Keywords: butter cookies, pistachios, dried fruit, festive cookies, holiday baking, jeweled cookies, gluten-free cookies