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Grain-Free Pistachio Italian Wedding Cookies Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 28 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 18 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Grain-Free Pistachio Italian Wedding Cookies are a delightful gluten-free and vegetarian dessert option, crafted with finely ground almond flour, pistachios, and coconut flour. Soft, buttery, and dusted with powdered sugar, they offer a perfect balance of nutty flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, ideal for holiday gatherings or any special occasion.


Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup finely ground blanched almond flour
  • 1/2 cup finely ground pistachios (plus more for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (plus more for dusting)
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, ground pistachios, coconut flour, and salt until evenly mixed.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and creamy.
  4. Add Extracts: Stir in the almond extract and vanilla extract into the butter mixture to infuse the dough with rich flavor.
  5. Mix Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms that’s easy to handle but not sticky.
  6. Shape Cookies: Scoop out 1-tablespoon portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Place the balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet to allow room for spreading.
  7. Bake: Bake the cookies for 14–16 minutes, or until the bottoms are lightly golden, indicating they are cooked through but still tender.
  8. Cool and Dust: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool slightly on the pan. While still warm, gently roll or dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a classic Italian wedding cookie finish.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Once completely cooled, garnish with additional chopped pistachios if desired, then serve or store in an airtight container.

Notes

  • For enhanced flavor, lightly toast the pistachios before grinding to bring out their nutty aroma.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
  • These cookies freeze well for up to 1 month; thaw at room temperature before serving.