Pistachio Snowball Cookies

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a food processor, pulse the pistachios until finely chopped. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl or using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until creamy (about 1 minute).
3. Gradually add 3/4 cup of powdered sugar and mix until well combined.
4. Add the vanilla and almond extracts, mixing on low until incorporated.
5. Slowly add the flour, chopped pistachios, and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
6. If using food coloring, add it now and mix until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape and Chill

1. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
2. Once chilled, remove from the fridge and cut the dough into small squares (about 1 inch).
3. Roll each square into a ball and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 14–15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
2. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 5: Coat in Sugar

1. While still warm, roll each cookie in the remaining powdered sugar.
2. For an extra snowy appearance, roll them in powdered sugar again after they have cooled completely.