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Homemade Pistachio Shortbread Recipe

4.7 from 121 reviews

Homemade Pistachio Shortbread is a delightful buttery treat infused with the rich flavor of pistachios and a hint of pistachio pudding for extra moisture and taste. These tender, crumbly shortbread cookies are lightly scored before baking, making them easy to portion into beautiful triangular shapes. Perfect for a sophisticated snack or an elegant dessert accompaniment.

Ingredients

Scale

Shortbread Dough

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 3.4 oz pistachio instant pudding mix (one small box)
  • ¼ cup sugar
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Wilton Leaf Green Gel Food Coloring (optional, for color enhancement)

Topping

  • ½ cup shelled pistachios, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan thoroughly and set it aside.
  2. Make the Dough: In a stand mixer, beat together the softened butter, pistachio instant pudding mix, and sugar until well combined and creamy. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and continue mixing until the mixture starts forming a dough.
  3. Form the Shortbread Base: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, using your fingers or the back of a spoon to flatten and smooth the surface.
  4. Add Pistachio Topping: Evenly press the chopped shelled pistachios into the top of the dough, gently embedding them into the surface.
  5. Score the Dough: Using a sharp knife, lightly score the dough into 9 equal squares and then cut each square diagonally into two triangles. Be careful not to cut all the way through; just score to guide cutting after baking.
  6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the edges are lightly golden and the shortbread is set.
  7. Cool and Serve: Allow the shortbread to cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then cut fully along the scored lines into triangles. Let the shortbread cool completely in the pan before removing and serving to maintain the shape.

Notes

  • If you prefer a more vivid green color, add a small amount of Wilton Leaf Green Gel Food Coloring to the dough while mixing.
  • Ensure butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing and better texture.
  • Scoring the dough before baking helps with even portions but avoid cutting through to keep the shortbread intact while baking.
  • Store cooled shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Keywords: pistachio shortbread, pistachio cookies, shortbread recipe, homemade shortbread, pistachio dessert