How do I store pistachio snowball cookies to keep them fresh?

Store pistachio snowball cookies in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature. Properly stored, they will stay fresh and maintain their texture for up to two weeks. To prevent the powdered sugar coating from dissolving, wait until the cookies are completely cooled before sealing them. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in an airtight container for up to three months and thaw at room temperature before serving.

Can I make pistachio snowball cookies gluten free?

Yes, you can make gluten free pistachio snowball cookies by swapping regular all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Measuring the gluten free flour by weight is recommended to ensure correct amounts since it can be denser than regular flour. This substitution helps keep the texture intact and prevents the cookies from crumbling.

What can I use if I don’t have pistachios or want to try a different nut?

You can substitute pistachios with other nuts such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds in this recipe. Each nut will impart a slightly different flavor and texture but will work well in the dough. When using salted nuts, remember to omit any added salt in the recipe to avoid oversalting the cookies.

How do I prepare and use the dough in advance or freeze it?

You can prepare pistachio snowball cookie dough up to three days ahead and refrigerate it in an airtight container. For longer storage, shape the dough into balls, freeze them on a tray until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag and freeze for up to two months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge or bake straight from frozen at 325°F for 15 to 20 minutes.

Is it necessary to add green food coloring to pistachio snowball cookies?

Adding green food coloring is optional and purely for visual effect. Pistachios naturally give the dough a subtle earthy green tint that becomes paler after baking. If you prefer a more vibrant green look, add a few drops of green food coloring to the dough during mixing. Otherwise, the natural color from the pistachios is suitable for most presentations.

Pistachio Snowball Cookies Recipe for a Buttery Holiday Treat

Name: Pistachio Snowball Cookies Recipe for a Buttery, Nutty Holiday Treat
Prep time: 55 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¼ cups (160g) unsalted shelled pistachios, raw or toasted; 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled; ¼ cup (33g) powdered sugar, plus about ¾ cup more for rolling; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional); 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional); Green food coloring (optional); Optional: ¼ cup chopped almonds

Description

🟢 Delight in these Pistachio Snowball Cookies that offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience with a buttery, nutty taste!
🎄 Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting, these cookies are quick to prepare, making them a festive favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

1 ¼ cups (160g) unsalted shelled pistachios, raw or toasted
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
¼ cup (33g) powdered sugar, plus about ¾ cup more for rolling
¼ teaspoon salt
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (optional)
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Green food coloring (optional)
Optional: ¼ cup chopped almonds

Instructions

1. Finely chop or pulse the pistachios to a coarse meal, keeping some larger pieces for texture.
2. In a bowl, combine the pistachios, flour, ¼ cup powdered sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with vanilla and almond extracts (if using) until smooth.
4. Mix the butter mixture into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Add green food coloring if desired.
5. Cover and chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Shape the dough into balls, spacing them about 1 to 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
8. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the edges are lightly browned.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
10. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely, re-rolling in powdered sugar if necessary.

Notes

🥣 Use unsalted pistachios for better salt control.
🧈 Soften butter to room temperature for easier mixing.
📏 Measure flour by weight or spooning into the cup to prevent dry cookies.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 150
Sugar: 7 g
Sodium: 50 mg
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 2 g
Cholesterol: 20 mg

Keywords: pistachio cookies,snowball cookies,buttery cookies,nutty holiday treat