Name: Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies for a Festive Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Butter (softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 1/2 cup Brown Sugar; 1 large Egg (or flax egg for vegan option); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (or certified gluten-free blend); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Chopped Pistachios (or almonds/pecans); 1 cup Dried Cranberries (or fresh cranberries, finely chopped); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (for dusting)

As I rummaged through my pantry, searching for that perfect festive touch for my holiday baking, a delightful pairing of flavors sparked my imagination: the rich nuttiness of pistachios and the tart sweetness of cranberries. This was the inspiration behind my Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies. Each cookie is not only a visual feast, shaped into charming wreaths that bring a sense of celebration to any holiday spread, but they also deliver on taste, being a vegetarian-friendly treat. With a quick prep time and a crowd-pleasing flair, these cookies are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Curious to see how you can add this festive flair to your baking lineup? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love These Festive Cookies

Festive Feel: These Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies make the perfect centerpiece for any holiday dessert table, bringing warmth and color to your celebrations.

Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have these delightful treats ready in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy with loved ones.

Flavor Explosion: The combination of nutty pistachios and tangy cranberries offers a unique and delicious taste experience that will tantalize your taste buds.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to substitute almonds or experiment with different dried fruits for a twist—perfect for mixing things up!

Great for Gifting: Share the holiday joy by packaging these cookies beautifully. They make wonderful homemade gifts that friends and family will cherish, just like my Cranberry Cookies Chewy and Cranberry Brie Tart suggestions.

Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies Ingredients

For the Cookies

Butter – Provides rich flavor and tender texture; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; coconut sugar can be used for less sweetness.
Brown Sugar – Contributes moisture and a slight caramel flavor; can substitute with more granulated sugar if desired.
Egg – Acts as a binder to keep the cookies together; for a vegan option, use a flax egg instead.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; swap for almond extract for a different twist.
All-Purpose Flour – Gives structure to cookies; for gluten-free needs, use a certified gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Powder – Helps cookies rise; don’t substitute unless using a different leavening agent.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
Chopped Pistachios – Adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness; feel free to substitute with almonds or pecans.
Dried Cranberries – Provides a sweet-tart flavor that complements the cookies; fresh cranberries can be finely chopped for a different texture.

For Dusting

Powdered Sugar – Used for a light dusting to add a decorative touch and sweetness to your Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, ensuring it’s ready to catch the delightful drips from your Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies. This initial step ensures even baking and easy cleanup later on.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This step incorporates air, making your cookies tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is a pale color and has a creamy texture.

Step 3: Add Egg and Vanilla
Crack an egg into the bowl along with the vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined. This should take about 1 minute. The wet ingredients will create a smooth batter that smells heavenly. Be sure all the butter and sugar blend seamlessly with the egg for the best cookie consistency.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed. This helps prevent the flour from flying everywhere. Mix just until the flour is incorporated; over-mixing can lead to tough cookies.

Step 5: Fold in the Mix-Ins
Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and dried cranberries with a spatula until evenly distributed throughout the dough. This step is crucial for ensuring each cookie has a perfect balance of nutty and tangy flavors. You’ll want them mixed until the bits are scattered throughout but not overworked.

Step 6: Shape the Cookies
Using your hands or a small cookie scoop, shape the dough into wreaths on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each one to allow for spreading while baking. Aim for about 2-3 inches in diameter to maintain that charming wreath shape.

Step 7: Bake the Cookies
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. Keep an eye on them; they should look set but not overly browned. The time may vary slightly based on your oven, so adjust as necessary.

Step 8: Cool and Decorate
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time makes them easier to handle. When cool, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar and garnish with additional chopped pistachios and cranberries for an extra festive touch.

Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies Variations

Customize your cookies and add a personal touch to every bite with these exciting twists!

Nutty Twist: Replace pistachios with almonds or pecans for a delightful crunch that can change the flavor profile entirely. Textures can vary beautifully, allowing your creativity to shine through in the baking process.
Fruity Alternatives: Swap dried cranberries for cherries or apricots to experiment with new flavor dimensions. These dried fruits will infuse your cookies with different sweet-tart notes, making them a unique treat.
Vegan Option: Use a flax egg instead of a regular egg to make these cookies vegan-friendly, perfect for those who are plant-based. With this simple mold adjustment, you can share deliciousness with everyone at your holiday table!
Flavored Extracts: Try adding almond or maple extract in place of vanilla for a delightful twist that enhances the wedding of flavors in these wreaths. Just a drop will infuse your cookies with a depth that speaks to the holiday spirit.
Citrus Zing: A touch of orange or lemon zest can elevate the flavor profile, bringing a refreshing brightness that balances the nutty pistachios. It’s an effortless way to add a bit of zest, making your festive cookies truly unforgettable.
Gluten-Free Twist: Substitute all-purpose flour with a certified gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste. These adjustments ensure that everyone at your gathering can indulge in the festive cheer!
Heat it Up: For a little kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of cranberries. It’s a delightful surprise for those who enjoy a bit of flavor adventure!
Dust it Differently: Instead of powdered sugar, consider using a mixture of ground nuts and a touch of cocoa powder for a richer finish that adds depth to the visual aspect of your cookies. This alternative dusting will also bring out the nutty flavors beautifully.

Feel free to explore these variations to make your Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies your own. If you’re in the mood for more deliciousness, check out my Cranberry Orange Snowball or other festive treats like Chocolate Thumbprint Cookies for even more inspiration!

Expert Tips for Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies

Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is soft to blend smoothly with the sugars, creating a tender cookie.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix until ingredients are just combined after adding flour. Overmixing can create tough texture in your Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies.
Proper Baking Space: Leave enough space between shaped wreaths on the baking sheet; this allows cookies to spread and bake evenly, preventing touching.
Adjust Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies—they can bake differently based on size. If they’re larger, a few extra minutes may be necessary.
Decorate Warm Cookies: Add powdered sugar and garnishes while they are still slightly warm for better adherence of toppings, enhancing presentation.

Make Ahead Options

These Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover and refrigerate it—this helps the flavors meld beautifully. Alternatively, shape the cookies and freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container, where they will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, place frozen cookies directly on a baking sheet and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time for delicious, fresh-from-the-oven results. This way, you’ll have these festive treats ready to delight your family with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies

These delightful cookies are a celebration of flavors and textures, perfect for brightening up your festive gatherings.

Fluffy Vanilla Whipped Cream: A dollop of this light topping perfectly complements the cookies’ rich flavors while adding a creamy texture. A drizzle of honey can enhance the natural sweetness, making every bite indulgent.
Spiced Hot Cider: This warm beverage brings a cozy touch, with hints of cinnamon and clove that balance the nutty sweetness of the cookies, creating a festive atmosphere.
Herbed Soft Cheese Spread: A savory herbed cream cheese spread pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cookies. Serve on a toasted baguette as an appetizer to tantalize the palate.
Cranberry Orange Sauce: The tangy zest of oranges combined with the tartness of cranberries mirrors the flavors in the cookies, adding a refreshing twist that enhances their taste.
Nutty Granola: A crunchy granola blend loaded with almonds and oats can be a fantastic side or topping, providing a delightful contrast to the soft cookies.
Peppermint Tea: The refreshing taste of peppermint tea cleanses the palate and adds a soothing touch to your dessert spread, making it perfectly cozy for winter nights.
Chocolate-Dipped Strawberries: Add a touch of elegance with these sweet treats. The rich chocolate pairs wonderfully with the cookies, while the strawberries provide a refreshing bite that balances sweetness.
Eggnog: For a festive drink, this creamy delight with hints of nutmeg complements the buttery and nutty flavors of the cookies wonderfully.
Gingerbread Cookies: Complement the Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies with equally festive gingerbread treats. Their spiced flavor profile creates a cozy holiday vibe that your guests will love.

How to Store and Freeze Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their freshness and deliciousness.

Fridge: For longer storage, consider placing the cookies in the fridge, which can extend their lifespan to about two weeks while still keeping them tasty. Just ensure they’re in a tightly sealed container.

Freezer: If you need to freeze them, wrap each cookie individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: To revive their warmth, pop cookies in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for a few seconds, making them just right for a cozy snack!

Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting pistachios?
When picking out pistachios, look for nuts that are light in color and have a slightly crunchy texture. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of moisture, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh pistachios should be easy to shell and should not have an off smell.

How should I store leftover cookies?
Store your Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you prefer to keep them fresher for longer, you can refrigerate them in a tightly sealed container for about two weeks. The key is ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze these cookies, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your cookies, first, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature. If you want a warm cookie experience, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to rejuvenate.

What if my cookie dough is too crumbly?
If your cookie dough seems too crumbly, it might be due to insufficient moisture. You can address this by adding a teaspoon of milk or melted butter gradually until you achieve a workable consistency. Mix gently until the dough holds together but avoid overmixing, since that can result in cookies that are tough!

Are these cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
These cookies are not suitable for individuals with nut allergies since they contain pistachios, a tree nut. If you’re looking to make a nut-free option, consider using seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds in place of the nuts. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also nut-free to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I make these cookies vegan?
Absolutely! To make these Pistachio Cranberry Wreath Cookies vegan, simply substitute the egg with a flax egg. To make one flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This will help bind the cookie dough just like an egg would!