Description
Buttery pistachio thumbprint cookies filled with pistachio white chocolate ganache that bake into elegant, nutty treats perfect for gifting or any occasion.
Ingredients
For the pistachio thumbprint cookies:
- 1 1/2 cups (150 grams) shelled pistachios, unsalted
- 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) confectioners' sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon almond or pistachio extract (optional)
- 2 1/2 cup (300 grams) all purpose flour
- 1 egg white, beaten until lightly frothy (for rolling)
For the pistachio white chocolate ganache filling:
- 4 ounces (125 grams) white chocolate, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons (45 grams) heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons (45 grams) pistachio cream
Instructions
Make the pistachio thumbprint cookies:
- Add the pistachios to a food processor and pulse until a medium grind forms. Remove about 2/3 of the pistachios and place into a bowl for rolling later.
- Continue processing the remaining pistachios until very finely ground. Measure out 1/4 cup and set aside. Discard the rest or add it to the medium ground pistachios.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, confectioners’ sugar, and salt with a hand mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, vanilla, and almond/pistachio extract. Beat again until creamy and well combined.
- Add the flour and the ¼ cup of finely ground pistachios, then beat until the well combined.
- Use a small cookie scoop to portion the dough. Roll each portion in the frothy egg white, then roll in the medium ground pistachios until fully coated. Arrange on a parchment lined baking sheet as you coat them.
- Use your thumb, the back of a wooden spoon, or a measuring spoon to gently press a divot (or “thumbprint”) into the center of each cookie.
- Cover lightly with plastic wrap and freeze for 30 minutes or refrigerate for at least one hour.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheets and bake for 9-10 minutes, or until set and lightly golden at the edges. Re-press the divots into the centers with a spoon while hot.
- Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack and let them cool fully before filling the centers.
Make the pistachio white chocolate ganache filling:
- Add the white chocolate, heavy cream, and pistachio cream to a microwave safe bowl. Microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring between each, until melted and smooth.
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Let the ganache cool slightly, then transfer to a piping bag fitted with a medium round tip. Pipe the ganache into each thumbprint. Allow cookies to cool completely until the centers set before serving.
Notes
How to store: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 to 4 days. Separate layers with parchment to protect the ganache.
How to freeze: Freeze unfilled cookies in a freezer safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw, then fill with fresh ganache. Filled cookies can also be frozen, but the centers may soften slightly after thawing.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American