Soft Pistachio Cream Cookies

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of nutty flavors and soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies, this recipe is for you. These soft pistachio cream cookies are a delightful treat with a rich, buttery texture and a subtle pistachio essence that makes them irresistible. The velvety pistachio cream filling elevates these cookies, offering a luxurious bite in every mouthful. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, these cookies are a fantastic choice.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Light brown sugar
• Egg yolk
• Pistachio paste
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Vanilla extract
• Heavy cream
• White chocolate
• Pistachio cream
• Chopped pistachios (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
3. Blend in the pistachio paste, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
6. Cover and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Baking the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls.
3. Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
4. Using your thumb or the back of a spoon, gently press an indentation into the center of each cookie.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
6. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 3: Preparing the Pistachio Cream Filling

1. Melt the white chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring in 30-second intervals until smooth.
2. Mix the melted chocolate with pistachio cream and heavy cream, stirring until well combined.
3. Allow the mixture to cool slightly until it thickens to a spreadable consistency.

Step 4: Assembling the Cookies

1. Spoon or pipe a small amount of pistachio cream filling into the indentation of each cooled cookie.
2. Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the filling for added texture and flavor.
3. Let the cookies sit for a few minutes to allow the filling to set.

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cookies for extra decadence.
• Citrus Twist: Add a touch of orange zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus note.
• Nutty Blend: Substitute half of the pistachios with almonds or hazelnuts for a mixed nut flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour or a gluten-free baking blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Chill Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
• Servings: About 18-20 cookies

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to a week.
• Freezing: Freeze unfilled cookies for up to 2 months. Fill them after thawing for best texture.
• Reheating: Let refrigerated cookies sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to enhance flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pistachio cream?

Yes! Store-bought pistachio cream works perfectly and saves time.

2. How do I make homemade pistachio paste?

Blend roasted pistachios, a bit of sugar, and a touch of oil until smooth.

3. Can I use a different nut butter instead of pistachio paste?

Absolutely! Almond or cashew butter can be great alternatives.

4. How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Chilling the dough helps prevent excessive spreading.

5. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 48 hours before baking.

6. Are these cookies soft or crunchy?

They are soft with a slightly chewy texture, complemented by a creamy center.

7. Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?

Yes! White or dark chocolate chips would pair beautifully with pistachio.

8. What if I don’t have a piping bag for the filling?

You can use a small spoon or a plastic bag with the corner snipped off.

9. Can I use salted pistachios?

If using salted pistachios, reduce the added salt in the recipe slightly.

10. What can I serve with these cookies?

Pair them with tea, coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.

Conclusion

Soft pistachio cream cookies are an indulgent yet elegant dessert that balances nutty richness with a velvety filling. Whether you enjoy them fresh with a cup of coffee or save them for a special occasion, they’re sure to impress. Try this recipe today and experience the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of these delightful treats!

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