Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique Flavor: The combination of pistachios and almond extract offers a distinctive, nutty taste that’s both rich and satisfying.
Soft Texture: The use of instant pistachio pudding mix ensures a soft and chewy cookie that melts in your mouth.
Festive Appearance: The subtle green hue, enhanced by green-colored sugar, makes these cookies visually appealing for various celebrations.
Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and readily available ingredients, both novice and experienced bakers can enjoy making these cookies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Butter (softened)
Vegetable oil
Confectioners’ sugar
Eggs (large, at room temperature)
Almond extract
Green food coloring
All-purpose flour
Instant pistachio pudding mix
Baking soda
Cream of tartar
Salt
Chopped pistachios or pecans
Green-colored sugar (for rolling)

Directions

Cream Butter and Sugar: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, vegetable oil, and confectioners’ sugar until well blended.
Add Eggs and Flavorings: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the almond extract and green food coloring until evenly distributed.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, pistachio pudding mix, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the chopped nuts.
Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to make the dough easier to handle.
Shape and Coat: After chilling, shape the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in green-colored sugar to coat.
Bake: Place the coated balls 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 6 dozen cookies
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Bake Time: 8-10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Pistachio Cookies: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet contrast.
Citrus Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest for a fresh, citrusy flavor.
Nut-Free Option: Omit the chopped nuts for a smoother cookie texture.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top of each cookie before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.
Refrigeration: Keep in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Let them thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: Warm cookies in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes to restore their fresh-baked texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pistachio pudding mix?

Yes, you can use a homemade version, but ensure it has similar thickening properties to instant pudding.

2. Do I have to use food coloring?

No, the food coloring is optional. The cookies will still taste great without it.

3. Can I substitute almond extract?

Yes, you can use vanilla extract or pistachio extract for a different flavor.

4. Can I use salted pistachios?

Yes, but you may want to reduce the added salt in the recipe.

5. How do I make these cookies softer?

Do not overbake them, and store them in an airtight container.

6. Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough balls and bake them directly from the freezer. Just add a minute or two to the baking time.

7. What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

You can use melted butter or coconut oil as a substitute.

8. Why did my cookies turn out too dry?

Overbaking or adding too much flour can result in dry cookies. Make sure to measure accurately.

9. Can I make these cookies without pudding mix?

The pudding mix contributes to the texture, but you can try using cornstarch and extra sugar as a substitute.

10. How do I make them crispier?

Bake them a minute or two longer for a crispier texture.

Conclusion

These pistachio cookies are a perfect blend of nutty flavor, soft texture, and festive charm. Whether you’re making them for a holiday celebration or just as a special treat, they’re sure to be a hit. With easy variations and simple storage options, you can enjoy these delicious cookies anytime. Give them a try, and enjoy a sweet, nutty delight!