Name: Pistachio Cherry Meltaways: Festive Cookies You'll Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 86 min
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar (sweetness and meltaway texture); 1 box instant pistachio pudding mix; 2 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour can be used); 1 teaspoon almond extract (or vanilla extract); 2-3 drops green food coloring (optional); 1/2 cup maraschino cherries (finely chopped and dried)

As the aroma of warm cookies fills my kitchen, I can’t help but smile at the vibrant green and red hues of my latest creation: Pistachio Cherry Meltaways. This delightful holiday cookie combines the rich, nutty essence of pistachios with the sweetness of maraschino cherries, resulting in a festive treat that’s impossible to resist. Not only are these meltaways incredibly easy to whip up, but they also pack a festive punch, making them perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. Plus, being an egg-free recipe means everyone can enjoy them during the holiday season! What’s better than a treat that looks as great as it tastes? Let’s dive into this whimsical take on a classic cookie and bring some holiday cheer to your dessert table!

Why are Pistachio Cherry Meltaways so special?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pistachio and maraschino cherries creates a delightful burst of sweetness and nuttiness that will have your taste buds dancing.

Visually Stunning: Their vibrant green and red colors make these cookies a festive addition to any holiday dessert table, sure to impress family and friends during gatherings.

Egg-Free Treat: Enjoy guilt-free baking with this non-egg recipe that accommodates various dietary preferences, making it perfect for everyone to savor together.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these meltaways in no time. They also render beautifully soft, melt-in-your-mouth goodness!

Make-Ahead Friendly: The dough can be prepared in advance and frozen, allowing you to save time when the holiday rush hits. Try pairing them with a cup of hot cocoa or even check out some cozy recipes like Cherry Earl Grey for a delightful evening!

Pistachio Cherry Meltaways Ingredients

For the Cookie Dough

Butter – Use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetness and aids in achieving a meltaway texture; granulated sugar can be used in a pinch but may alter texture.
Instant Pistachio Pudding Mix – Adds flavor and contributes to the cookies’ softness; substituting with vanilla pudding can change the flavor profile.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure for the cookies; gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free version.
Almond Extract – Enhances flavor significantly; vanilla extract can be used as a substitute if preferred.
Green Food Coloring – Optional for achieving vibrant cookies; omit if you prefer a natural look.
Maraschino Cherries – Adds festive color and flavor; can substitute with dried cherries for a less sweet cookie, though the appearance will differ.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pistachio Cherry Meltaways

Step 1: Cream the Butter
In a stand mixer, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter on medium speed until it becomes fluffy and light in color, roughly 2-3 minutes. Ensure the bowl’s sides are scraped down to incorporate all the butter evenly, creating a smooth base for your Pistachio Cherry Meltaways.

Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 box of instant pistachio pudding mix, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the creamed butter. Mix on low speed until all ingredients are fully combined, and a cohesive dough begins to form; it may look a bit dry initially but will come together as you mix.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Elements
Next, pour in 1 teaspoon of almond extract, along with 2-3 drops of green food coloring if desired for that festive touch. Mix on low until the extract and color are evenly distributed throughout the dough, enhancing the aromatic experience of your Pistachio Cherry Meltaways.

Step 4: Fold in the Cherries
Finely chop about ½ cup of maraschino cherries and pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess juice. Gently fold the cherries into the dough using a spatula, being careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture and appearance of the cookies.

Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-60 minutes, allowing it to firm up. This step is crucial for shaping the cookies, ensuring they hold their form while baking and contribute to the meltaway texture you seek in your Pistachio Cherry Meltaways.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and prepare for the beautiful cookies that will soon emerge—this step will ensure even baking for your meltaways.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies
After chilling, scoop tablespoon-sized pieces of dough and roll them into balls. Space them about 2 inches apart on your prepared cookie sheet, as the cookies will spread slightly. This spacing allows even heat circulation during baking, essential for perfect Pistachio Cherry Meltaways.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for 9-11 minutes until they are set but not browned. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges look firm and the centers still appear soft. Remove the sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 9: Dust with Powdered Sugar
Once the cookies are completely cool, generously dust them with powdered sugar for a sweet finish. This final touch not only enhances their festive appearance but adds a delightful sweetness to the delicious Pistachio Cherry Meltaways you’ve just created!

What to Serve with Pistachio Cherry Meltaways?

As the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafts through your home, it’s time to think about what will complement those delightful meltaways and elevate your holiday gatherings.

Hot Cocoa: Rich, creamy hot cocoa perfectly balances the sweetness of the cookies and adds warmth for cozy winter nights.
Coffee: A cup of your favorite coffee provides a delightful contrast, enhancing the pistachio flavor while offering a comforting touch.
Mulled Wine: The spices and fruit notes in mulled wine harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the cookies, creating a festive pairing.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing, tangy fruit salad offers a bright counterpoint to the cookies, adding a healthy, vibrant element to your spread.
Cheeseboard: Include creamy cheeses and nuts alongside your meltaways; this combination provides a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream served alongside these warm cookies creates an indulgent dessert experience like no other.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted chocolate over the cookies gives an extra layer of richness, elevating their festive look and flavor.
Spiced Tea: A cup of chai or spiced tea complements the cookies well, embracing the holiday spirit with its warming spices.
Shortbread Cookies: For a cookie platter, include classic shortbreads; their buttery richness pairs harmoniously with the flavors of the meltaways.

Expert Tips for Pistachio Cherry Meltaways

Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking, ensuring perfect Pistachio Cherry Meltaways.
Be Gentle with Mix: Avoid overmixing when folding in the cherries. This keeps your cookies tender and prevents them from becoming tough.
Choose the Right Butter: Use unsalted butter; it gives you better control over the saltiness, resulting in a balanced sweet flavor.
Pat Dry Cherries: Make sure the maraschino cherries are well-patted dry before mixing them in, which prevents excess moisture that can alter the texture.
Perfect Baking Time: Keep an eye on the cookies in the oven; they should be set but still soft in the center. This is key for that signature meltaway texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Pistachio Cherry Meltaways are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of the season without the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and storing it in the refrigerator. This step keeps the dough fresh and ensures the cookies maintain their delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop and roll the chilled dough into balls, then proceed with baking as directed. For an even longer option, you can freeze the wrapped dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using to ensure quality results. Enjoy stress-free baking just in time for your festive gatherings!

Pistachio Cherry Meltaways Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Pistachio Cherry Meltaways and personalize them to your taste preferences!

Dried Cherries: Swap out maraschino cherries for dried cherries for a chewier texture and less sweetness, perfect for those who love a tangy twist.
Chocolate Chips: Replace the cherries with chocolate chips for an indulgent treat that’s irresistible. The blend of pistachio and chocolate takes these cookies to a new level!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour; the cookies will still be delightful and accommodating for everyone.
Vanilla Twist: Substitute almond extract with vanilla extract to create a sweeter flavor profile that complements the cookies’ nuttiness beautifully.
Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a refreshing citrus zing, which balances the sweetness perfectly. This will brighten up every bite!
Nutty Variety: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans along with or instead of pistachios for added crunch and flavor depth.
Festive Spices: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spicy undertone that evokes holiday feelings. These spices can elevate the aroma and flavor!

For an extra touch, serve these meltaways with a cup of hot cocoa or try pairing them with your favorite cozy beverage, like the delightful Cherry Earl Grey. Feel free to check out the Pistachio Pudding Icebox for further inspiration!

How to Store and Freeze Pistachio Cherry Meltaways

Room Temperature: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. This helps maintain their soft texture and flavor.

Fridge: If storing longer, you may refrigerate the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Just note they may be slightly firmer when chilled.

Freezer: You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for best results. Thaw in the fridge before baking.

Reheating: For the freshest taste, reheat baked cookies in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before serving.

Pistachio Cherry Meltaways Recipe FAQs

What type of cherries should I use for these cookies?
I recommend using maraschino cherries for their sweetness and vibrant color. Be sure to chop them finely and pat them dry to remove excess juice, preventing color bleeding into your dough.

How should I store Pistachio Cherry Meltaways?
To keep your cookies at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you want to extend their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks, although they may become slightly firmer.

Can I freeze the dough for Pistachio Cherry Meltaways?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw the dough in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking.

What should I do if my dough seems too dry?
If your dough appears dry, don’t worry! Sometimes it just needs a little extra mixing. If it’s still too crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of milk or water, one at a time, until the dough comes together. Just be careful not to overmix once you add the liquid.

Are Pistachio Cherry Meltaways suitable for people with nut allergies?
Since these cookies contain pistachios, they are not suitable for individuals with nut allergies. However, you can try substituting with sunflower seed butter for a nut-free alternative, but note that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.

How long will my meltaways stay fresh after baking?
Baked Pistachio Cherry Meltaways can stay fresh in an airtight container for up to a week at room temperature. For longer-lasting cookies, consider refrigerating for up to 2 weeks or freezing them as mentioned earlier. Enjoy your festive treat!