Name: Pistachio Wedding Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487870H42M34S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for coating); 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup ground pistachios (finely chopped or processed); 1/4 tsp salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cookies are simple to make, yet incredibly flavorful. The nutty pistachios give them a unique taste and a beautiful pale green color, while the powdered sugar coating adds the perfect sweet finish. Their melt-away texture and petite, snowball-like appearance make them great for gifting, dessert platters, or teatime indulgence.

Ingredients

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

Unsalted butter (softened)
Powdered sugar (plus extra for coating)
Vanilla extract
All-purpose flour
Ground pistachios (finely chopped or pulsed in a food processor)
Salt

Directions

Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Cream butter and sugar: In a mixing bowl, beat softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract.
Add dry ingredients: Gradually add flour, salt, and ground pistachios to the butter mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Shape the cookies: Scoop small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and roll into balls. Place them spaced slightly apart on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake: Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the bottoms are just golden. The tops should remain pale.
Coat in sugar: Let the cookies cool for 5 minutes, then roll them gently in powdered sugar while still warm. Once fully cooled, roll them again for a snowy finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24–30 cookies.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12–14 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Almond or Walnut Version: Swap pistachios with finely ground almonds or walnuts for a more traditional take.
Pistachio-Lemon: Add lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Spiced Version: Add a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor.
Pistachio Extract: Add a drop of pistachio extract to boost the nutty flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store pistachio wedding cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the uncoated cookies for up to 2 months. Thaw and re-roll in powdered sugar before serving. These cookies do not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I use salted pistachios?

Yes, but reduce or omit the added salt in the dough to keep the flavor balanced.

Do I need to toast the pistachios first?

Toasting is optional but enhances the nutty flavor. Let them cool before grinding.

How finely should the pistachios be chopped?

They should be ground into a coarse meal—not powdery, but fine enough to blend well into the dough.

Can I use a food processor to make the dough?

Yes, you can pulse the ingredients in a food processor, but don’t overmix once the dough comes together.

Are these cookies supposed to be soft or crunchy?

They’re tender and crumbly, not chewy or crisp. They should melt in your mouth.

Why do I roll the cookies in powdered sugar twice?

The first roll helps the sugar adhere while the cookies are warm, and the second gives them a snowy, finished look once cooled.

Can I add food coloring for a greener look?

Yes, a small amount of green gel food coloring can be added to enhance the color.

What can I serve these cookies with?

They pair beautifully with tea, coffee, or served on a holiday cookie tray.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 2 days before baking. Let it come to room temperature for easier rolling.

Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely. Freeze the shaped dough balls and bake from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to the bake time.

Conclusion

Pistachio Wedding Cookies are a beautiful and buttery twist on a beloved classic, with their soft texture, nutty flavor, and elegant look. They’re simple to make yet worthy of special occasions, and their delicate sweetness makes them a crowd-pleasing favorite. Whether for a holiday, a wedding, or an afternoon treat, these cookies bring charm and flavor to every bite.