Description
These Pistachio Shortbread Bars combine the rich, buttery texture of classic shortbread with the delightful crunch and flavor of roasted pistachios. Perfectly sweetened and subtly enhanced with vanilla, they make an easy and elegant treat for holidays or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Shortbread Dough
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup shelled pistachios, chopped
Topping (Optional)
- Extra chopped pistachios
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal of the bars after baking.
- Create the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor. Add the flour and salt, mixing just until combined. Fold in the chopped pistachios, noting that the dough will be crumbly but should hold together when pressed.
- Press and Top: Evenly press the dough into the prepared pan using the back of a flat glass or measuring cup to smooth the surface. If desired, sprinkle extra chopped pistachios and granulated sugar evenly over the top for added texture and sweetness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the edges turn lightly golden and the center is set.
- Cool and Slice: Remove the pan from the oven and allow the shortbread to cool completely within the pan. Once cooled, use the parchment paper overhang to lift the shortbread out, then slice into squares or rectangles to serve.
Notes
- For a flavor twist, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough to brighten the nutty flavor.
- For an indulgent touch, dip the cooled bars halfway in melted dark chocolate and allow to set.
- Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
