There’s something timeless about wedding cookies. They’re soft, buttery, and always coated in a cloud of powdered sugar that makes them feel a little extra special. This pistachio twist on the classic brings a delicate nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with their melt-in-your-mouth texture. Whether you’re baking them for a wedding, holiday celebration, or just to treat yourself, these cookies are the kind that disappear quickly from the plate.
I love how these cookies bring back a sense of tradition but with a fresh, fun flavor. The pistachio pudding mix is the secret ingredient here — it not only adds flavor but also keeps the cookies tender and light. They’re the kind of treat that feels fancy, even though they come together with just a few simple steps.
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 sticks salted butter, softened (1 cup)
1 1/4 cups powdered sugar, divided
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 (3.4 oz) package pistachio instant pudding mix (dry)
Tip: Make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Soft butter blends smoothly and gives the dough the right texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by creaming the butter in a large bowl until smooth. Add 1/2 cup of powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy, then mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and pistachio pudding mix. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter mixture until a soft dough comes together.
Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in wax paper, and refrigerate for about an hour. This resting time makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies keep their shape when baking. Once chilled, scoop small portions of dough with a teaspoon, roll into balls, and gently press the tops with the back of the spoon. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake at 350°F for 6 to 9 minutes, just until the edges are set. The cookies should stay pale — you’re not looking for a golden color here. Cool them slightly on the baking sheet, then roll the warm cookies in the remaining powdered sugar. Finally, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, and give them another dusting of sugar if you like that snowy look.
Why You’ll Love These Cookies
These cookies are buttery and soft, with a delicate nutty flavor from the pistachio. They practically melt in your mouth with every bite. The powdered sugar coating adds just the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming. They’re perfect for weddings, but honestly, they shine just as brightly at Christmas or any holiday party.
Practical tip: If you want to get ahead, you can make the dough a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just roll, bake, and coat in sugar when you’re ready to serve.
Storage and Serving
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully — just don’t coat them in powdered sugar before freezing. Instead, thaw them and roll in sugar right before serving for that freshly-made look.
Serve them alongside coffee, tea, or even as part of a holiday cookie platter. However you share them, they’re bound to be a favorite.