Pistachio Cinnamon Star Cookies
Highlighted under: Sweet Treats
Delight in the festive flavors of these Pistachio Cinnamon Star Cookies, perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion!
These Pistachio Cinnamon Star Cookies are a delightful fusion of nutty pistachios and warming cinnamon, making them an irresistible treat during the cold months. Not only are they a feast for the eyes, but they also melt in your mouth with every bite. Whether you're baking for a festive gathering or simply indulging yourself, these cookies are sure to impress!
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Unique combination of pistachios and cinnamon for a flavorful twist
- Beautiful star shape perfect for holiday presentations
- Crunchy texture with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center
- Ideal for gifting or sharing with loved ones
The Perfect Holiday Treat
Pistachio Cinnamon Star Cookies are not just a dessert; they embody the essence of the holiday season. Their vibrant green pistachios and warm cinnamon create a festive vibe that makes them perfect for gatherings, parties, or cozy family moments. Whether you're hosting a holiday dinner or attending a potluck, these cookies are sure to impress. Their unique appearance and delightful flavors will have your guests reaching for more.
The star shape of these cookies adds an extra touch of charm, making them ideal for holiday platters. You can easily enhance their presentation with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a scattering of chopped pistachios, giving them a visually appealing finish. With each bite, you’ll experience the delightful crunch of pistachios combined with the aromatic warmth of cinnamon, making them a standout treat during the festive season.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure your Pistachio Cinnamon Star Cookies turn out perfectly, pay close attention to the dough. It should be soft but not sticky, allowing you to roll it out easily. If you find the dough too soft, chilling it for a longer period can help firm it up for easier handling. Additionally, when rolling out the dough, make sure your surface and rolling pin are well-floured to prevent sticking.
Baking times can vary based on your oven, so keep an eye on the cookies as they bake. Look for a light golden color around the edges, which indicates they are done. Overbaking can lead to a drier texture, so it’s better to err on the side of caution. Lastly, allow the cookies to cool completely before adding your garnish to ensure the toppings adhere well.
Storing and Gifting
These cookies are not only delicious but also make fantastic gifts! Once baked and cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them at room temperature.
For gifting, consider placing the cookies in decorative tins or boxes, adding a personal touch with a handwritten note or a festive ribbon. They make a delightful homemade gift for friends, family, or colleagues during the holiday season. Sharing these cookies is a wonderful way to spread joy and holiday cheer!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create these delightful cookies:
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground pistachios
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Garnish
- Chopped pistachios
- Powdered sugar
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to bake your Pistachio Cinnamon Star Cookies:
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ground pistachios, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
Mix Dough
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft but moldable.
Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Roll and Cut Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
Garnish
Once cooled, sprinkle with chopped pistachios and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Pistachio Cinnamon Star Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Creative Variations
While the classic Pistachio Cinnamon Star Cookies are a delight on their own, you can also experiment with flavors to suit your palate. Consider adding a hint of almond extract for an extra layer of flavor or incorporating chocolate chips for a rich contrast. Dried cranberries can also provide a tartness that complements the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
Another fun variation is to dip half of the cooled cookies in melted chocolate, then sprinkle with additional chopped pistachios or sea salt for a gourmet touch. These creative twists can elevate your cookie-making experience and impress your guests with unique flavors.
Nutritional Benefits of Pistachios
Pistachios are not only tasty but also packed with nutritional benefits. They are a great source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a heart-healthy snack. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin B6 and potassium, pistachios can contribute to overall wellness when enjoyed in moderation.
Incorporating pistachios into your baking not only enhances the flavor but also provides a nutritious boost to your treats. By choosing these cookies, you're indulging in a delightful dessert while also enjoying the health benefits associated with this versatile nut.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
→ How do I store these cookies?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
→ What can I substitute for pistachios?
Almonds or walnuts can be used as a substitute if you prefer.
Pistachio Cinnamon Star Cookies
Delight in the festive flavors of these Pistachio Cinnamon Star Cookies, perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion!
Created by: Lara
Recipe Type: Sweet Treats
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 24 cookies
What You'll Need
For the Cookies
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground pistachios
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Garnish
- Chopped pistachios
- Powdered sugar
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ground pistachios, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. The dough should be soft but moldable.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool on a wire rack.
Once cooled, sprinkle with chopped pistachios and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 50mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 18g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 2g