Add the powdered sugar and continue mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process helps create the delicate texture that shortbread cookies are known for.
Next, mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture while mixing slowly.
At first the dough may appear crumbly, but keep mixing gently until it begins to come together into a soft dough.
Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough rather than tender.
Step 3: Fold in the Cranberries and Pistachios
Once the dough has formed, gently fold in the chopped cranberries and pistachios.
Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough so that every cookie has a balance of fruity tartness and nutty crunch.
The dough should now look colorful and festive.
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Step 4: Shape the Dough
Place the dough on a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap.
Shape it into a log about 2 inches thick. Wrap the log tightly and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking and enhances the flavor.
If you prefer, you can flatten the dough into a disk instead and roll it out later for cut-out cookies.
Step 5: Slice the Cookies
Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Using a sharp knife, slice the dough into cookies about ¼ inch thick. Arrange them on the baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between each cookie.
For extra decoration, you can gently press additional chopped pistachios onto the tops.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden.
Shortbread cookies should remain pale on top but slightly golden underneath.
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 7: Optional Finishing Touches
After the cookies have cooled completely, you can add a few finishing touches:
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