Tender, buttery, and coated in powdered sugar, these Pistachio Wedding Cookies are everything you love about a traditional snowball cookie with a nutty, colorful twist. They melt in your mouth and bring a festive charm to any dessert table, especially during holidays or special celebrations like weddings, showers, or anniversaries.
Unlike classic versions that use pecans or walnuts, these cookies celebrate the vibrant green pistachio. The result is a soft crumb with a subtle crunch and a delicate flavor that’s both nostalgic and unexpected. They’re elegant enough for a party, yet simple enough to whip up on a cozy afternoon.
Why You’ll Love This Pistachio Wedding Cookies Recipe
These cookies come together with just a few pantry staples and no fancy equipment. They’re naturally egg-free and can be made ahead of time, making them a stress-free option for entertaining. Plus, their powdery sugar coating and slight pistachio hue make them irresistible on a cookie platter.
They also freeze beautifully, so you can always have a batch ready for last-minute guests or sweet cravings. And with their soft, buttery texture, they’re loved by kids and adults alike.
What Kind of Pistachios Should I Use?
For best results, go with roasted and unsalted pistachios. This gives you maximum flavor without overpowering saltiness. If your pistachios have skins, you can gently rub them off after roasting for a cleaner color and smoother texture. Always chop them finely so they incorporate well into the dough without making the cookies crumbly.
Ingredients for the Pistachio Wedding Cookies
Pistachio Wedding Cookies are made with simple ingredients that come together to create something truly magical. Each component has a role in bringing flavor, texture, and structure to these delightful bites.
- Unsalted butter
 - Powdered sugar
 - All-purpose flour
 - Vanilla extract
 - Salt
 - Finely chopped pistachios
 - Extra powdered sugar for rolling
 
Butter gives these cookies their signature melt-in-your-mouth quality. Powdered sugar sweetens without grittiness, while flour provides the base structure. Vanilla extract enhances the flavor, and a pinch of salt balances it out. The pistachios add nutty depth and just the right amount of bite. Finally, the extra powdered sugar creates that classic snowy finish.
  

How To Make the Pistachio Wedding Cookies
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and fluffy. This step builds the tender base of your cookie dough.
Step 2: Add the Vanilla and Dry Ingredients
Mix in the vanilla extract, then gradually add the flour and salt. Stir until a soft dough begins to form. Fold in the finely chopped pistachios evenly.
Step 3: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 to 60 minutes. This helps the dough firm up, making it easier to roll and preventing the cookies from spreading.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
Step 5: Roll in Powdered Sugar
Allow the cookies to cool slightly, then roll them gently in powdered sugar while still warm. Once fully cooled, give them a second roll for that extra snowy coating.
How to Serve and Store These Cookies
Pistachio Wedding Cookies are best enjoyed with a warm drink or a festive glass of bubbly. They add a touch of elegance to dessert tables and make charming edible gifts when wrapped in pretty boxes.
This recipe makes about 24 cookies, perfect for serving a small crowd or saving some for later. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a sealed container for up to three months. Just be sure to dust with a fresh layer of powdered sugar after thawing.
What to Serve With Pistachio Wedding Cookies?
Hot Tea or Herbal Infusions
Their buttery texture pairs beautifully with the light floral notes of chamomile or a classic Earl Grey.
Sparkling Wine or Prosecco
For festive occasions, these cookies balance out the acidity and bubbles with their sweet, soft texture.
Coffee or Espresso
Their richness makes them a cozy companion to a bold cup of coffee or a velvety latte.
Lemon Sorbet
The tart brightness of lemon sorbet adds a fresh contrast to the nutty cookie.
Vanilla Ice Cream
Crumbled on top or served alongside, this duo is an effortless dessert upgrade.
Pistachio Cream Liqueur
If you can find it, this makes a fun pairing for an all-pistachio dessert moment.
White Chocolate Drizzle
Drizzle some melted white chocolate over the cookies for a sweeter, richer finish.
Want More Cookie Ideas with a Twist?
If you love these Pistachio Wedding Cookies, you’ll probably enjoy these other festive favorites from the Janet Dishes kitchen:
- Salted Caramel Pecan Cookies for a deeper caramel crunch.
 - Chocolate Crinkle Sandwich Cookies with a soft ganache center.
 - Peanut Butter S’mores Sandwich Cookies if you love a campfire treat in cookie form.
 - Lemon Truffles Recipe for a tangy citrusy no-bake option.
 - Ooey Gooey Butter Cake for a chewy, decadent alternative.
 
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast your pistachios or leave them raw? Try adding a hint of orange zest?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!
Conclusion
These Pistachio Wedding Cookies are the kind of treat that turns a regular day into a special one. With a buttery base, a hint of vanilla, and the nutty goodness of pistachios, they deliver joy in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just because, these snowy cookies bring a beautiful balance of flavor and nostalgia. Simple, elegant, and unforgettable.

		Pistachio Wedding Cookies
- Total Time: 29 minutes
 - Yield: 24 cookies
 - Diet: Vegetarian
 
Description
Pistachio Wedding Cookies are buttery, melt-in-your-mouth holiday treats rolled in powdered sugar and packed with finely chopped roasted pistachios. Perfect for Christmas, weddings, or tea-time desserts, these classic snowball-style cookies are simple, elegant, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter
0.5 cup powdered sugar
2.25 cups all-purpose flour
1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
0.25 teaspoon salt
0.75 cup finely chopped pistachios
1 cup powdered sugar for rolling
Instructions
1. Cream the butter and powdered sugar together until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add vanilla extract, then gradually mix in flour and salt until just combined.
3. Fold in finely chopped pistachios evenly through the dough.
4. Cover the dough and chill in the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment.
6. Roll chilled dough into small balls and place on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until bottoms are lightly golden.
8. Let cookies cool slightly and roll them in powdered sugar while still warm.
9. Once completely cool, roll them in powdered sugar again for a snowy finish.
Notes
These cookies are egg-free and freezer-friendly.
Use roasted, unsalted pistachios for best flavor and color.
Rolling twice in powdered sugar gives a perfect snowy look.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
 - Cook Time: 14 minutes
 - Category: Dessert
 - Method: Baking
 - Cuisine: American
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
 - Calories: 140
 - Sugar: 6g
 - Sodium: 30mg
 - Fat: 9g
 - Saturated Fat: 5g
 - Unsaturated Fat: 4g
 - Trans Fat: 0g
 - Carbohydrates: 14g
 - Fiber: 0.5g
 - Protein: 1.5g
 - Cholesterol: 20mg
 

					
				