Introduction
The holidays are the perfect time for festive baking, and few cookies capture the season’s charm quite like Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies. With their delicate buttery base, nutty pistachios, tangy dried cranberries, and whimsical wreath shape, these cookies are both delicious and a delight to present. Whether you’re baking for a cookie exchange, gifting to friends and family, or simply craving a charming addition to your dessert tray, this recipe is sure to become a holiday favorite.
These cookies deliver a balance of flavors: the pistachios bring earthy richness, while the cranberries add pops of sweet-tart brightness. The light dusting of powdered sugar gives a “snowy” effect that elevates their visual appeal. Best of all, they’re surprisingly straightforward to make, even for beginner bakers.
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup pistachios, finely chopped
- ½ cup dried cranberries, chopped
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for extra tenderness)
For Decoration
- Additional chopped pistachios
- Dried cranberries
- Powdered sugar (for “snowy” dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. - Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined. - Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and (if using) cornstarch. Gradually add this dry mixture into the creamed butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. - Fold in Nuts & Fruit
Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and dried cranberries, distributing them evenly throughout the dough. - Shape Wreath Cookies
Divide the dough into small portions (about 1–1½ tablespoons each). Roll each portion into a ball, then create a hole in the center (using your finger or the back of a utensil) and gently smooth to form a wreath. (Alternatively, use a small wreath‑shaped cookie cutter for uniformity.) - Bake
Place the shaped cookies onto the lined baking sheet, spacing them a couple of inches apart. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the edges just begin to turn lightly golden. - Cool & Decorate
Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Once cooled, garnish with extra chopped pistachios and dried cranberries, and lightly dust with powdered sugar for a “snowy” finish.
Tips & Variations
- Chill the dough: If the dough feels too soft or is difficult to shape, refrigerate it for 15–20 minutes before forming the wreaths. It helps maintain better shape while baking.
- Uniform size: Use a cookie scoop to portion out dough for consistent size and more even baking.
- Nut swaps: If pistachios aren’t your favorite or are hard to find, you can substitute with chopped almonds or pecans.
- Fresh cranberries: Dried cranberries are recommended for texture and sweetness, but you can experiment with very finely chopped fresh cranberries (though they may add moisture).
- Gluten‑free option: Use a one‑to‑one gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
- Chocolate drizzle twist: For a fancier presentation, you can drizzle melted white chocolate over the cooled cookies.
Serving & Storage
- What to serve with them: These cookies pair beautifully with warm beverages like hot cocoa, spiced cider, or herbal tea. Add them to dessert platters alongside truffles, chocolate-dipped pretzels, or other holiday treats.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. These cookies also freeze well: wrap them in a single layer between sheets of parchment, then store in a sealed freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Why This Recipe Works & Holiday Appeal
- Flavor balance: The combination of buttery dough, crunchy pistachios, and tart cranberries offers layers of texture and taste.
- Visual charm: The wreath shape makes these cookies perfect for holiday gifting and presentation.
- Approachability: Despite their elegant appearance, the recipe is straightforward and uses common baking pantry ingredients.
- Versatility: Whether as a gift, a party staple, or a comforting treat for yourself, these cookies fit many roles during the holiday season.
Conclusion
Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the holidays through baking. Their festive shape, lovely flavor contrast, and relative ease make them an ideal addition to your holiday baking lineup. Once you bake a batch and see those pretty green and red wreaths dusted with powdered sugar, you’ll understand why they’re destined to become a seasonal favorite.