Pistachio Cherry Meltaways
Imagine a cookie that melts in your mouth, a perfect blend of nutty pistachio and sweet cherry, with just a hint of almond. These Pistachio Cherry Meltaways are not just cookies; they are little bites of happiness that will have you reaching for seconds (and thirds!). With an incredibly soft texture and an irresistible flavor combination, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or simply indulging in a personal treat, these meltaways are the way to go.
Why It’s My Go-To
These Pistachio Cherry Meltaways have become my go-to recipe for several reasons. First, they are incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. The use of instant pistachio pudding mix not only adds a beautiful green hue but also enhances the pistachio flavor without the need for hours of baking. Plus, the addition of maraschino cherries gives them a delightful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of pistachios. They are perfect for holiday cookie trays, gift-giving, or just as a sweet treat to enjoy with your afternoon coffee.
Ingredient Breakdown
To make these delightful Pistachio Cherry Meltaways, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened – This will create a rich and creamy base for your cookies.
- 2/3 cup powdered sugar – For sweetness and to create that meltaway texture.
- 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant pistachio pudding mix – This is the star ingredient, providing flavor and moisture.
- 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour – The main structure of the cookies.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons almond extract – Adding depth with its distinct flavor.
- Optional green food coloring (about 2 drops) – For a vibrant, festive look.
- 1/2 cup maraschino cherries, chopped finely – These add bursts of sweetness and color.
Setup & Equipment
Before diving into the baking process, gather the following essential equipment:
- Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients.
- Electric mixer – Makes creaming the butter and sugar effortless.
- Baking sheets – To bake your cookies on.
- Parchment paper – For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Cookie scoop or spoon – For portioning the dough evenly.
From Start to Finish: Pistachio Cherry Meltaways
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of making these delectable Pistachio Cherry Meltaways.
Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Pudding Mix
Next, add the instant pistachio pudding mix to the creamed mixture. Mix until well combined, and you’ll start to notice that beautiful green color coming through.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour and Almond Extract
Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and almond extract, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tougher cookies.
Step 4: Fold in the Cherries
Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough for bursts of flavor in every bite.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors meld and makes the dough easier to handle.
Step 6: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cookies.
Step 7: Scoop and Shape
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may appear soft, but they will firm up as they cool.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Pistachio Cherry Meltaways with a glass of milk or your favorite hot beverage!
Swap Guide
If you’re looking to customize your Pistachio Cherry Meltaways, here are some great swaps you can make:
- Butter: You can use margarine or a vegan butter substitute for a dairy-free option.
- Pudding mix: Try using a different flavor of instant pudding mix, like vanilla or chocolate, for a unique twist.
- Cherries: If maraschino cherries aren’t your favorite, consider using dried cherries or cranberries for a chewy texture.
- Nut extract: Swap almond extract for vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
Author’s Commentary
These Pistachio Cherry Meltaways are a delightful treat that I often find myself making for various occasions. They are a crowd-pleaser, and I love how easy they are to whip up. Plus, the vibrant green color makes them perfect for holiday gatherings or celebrations. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible, and every bite melts away in your mouth. If you have a sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to satisfy!
Best Ways to Store
To keep your Pistachio Cherry Meltaways fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for up to three months. Simply thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge!
Helpful Q&A
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before scooping and baking.
What if I can’t find instant pistachio pudding mix?
If you can’t find it, you can substitute with vanilla pudding mix and add finely ground pistachios to the dough for flavor. However, the texture may vary slightly.
Can I use fresh cherries instead of maraschino cherries?
Fresh cherries can be used, but make sure to pit and finely chop them. Keep in mind that they may add more moisture than maraschino cherries, which can affect the texture of the cookies.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
You can add colorful sprinkles on top before baking or drizzle some white chocolate over the cooled cookies for a beautiful finish.
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Ready, Set, Cook
Now that you have all the details, it’s time to bring some joy into your kitchen with these Pistachio Cherry Meltaways. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the baking begin! Whether for a celebration or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are sure to be a hit. Happy baking!
Pistachio Cherry Meltaways
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the instant pistachio pudding mix to the creamed mixture and mix until well combined.
- Gradually add in the all-purpose flour and almond extract, mixing until just combined.
- Gently fold in the finely chopped maraschino cherries until evenly distributed.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until edges are lightly golden.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- For longer storage, freeze between sheets of parchment paper for up to three months.
- Customize your cookies by using different flavors of pudding mix.
