Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies

Name: Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup softened butter; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (plus extra for dusting); 1 teaspoon almond extract; 3.4 oz instant pistachio pudding mix; 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped cherries (frozen for 15-20 minutes); 1/4 cup white chocolate chips

Published: December 5, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, baking these cookies is a breeze.
Flavorful Combination: The blend of pistachios and cherries creates a delicious contrast that’s hard to resist.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, holidays, or just as an everyday snack; Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies fit every occasion.
Eye-Catching Appearance: The crinkled texture and bright colors make these cookies visually appealing.
Freezer-Friendly: Make the dough ahead of time and freeze it for future baking sessions.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process and make it even more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowl
Electric mixer
Cookie sheet
Plastic wrap
Spoon or cookie scoop

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowl: A sturdy mixing bowl provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and mixing your dough to perfection.

Ingredients

Simple, delicious and easy to make!

1 cup butter (softened)
1/2 cup powdered sugar + more for sprinkling on top
1 teaspoon almond extract
3.4 oz pkg instant pistachio pudding mix
1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cherries – You can also place the chopped cherries in the freezer for 15-20 minutes to make sure they don’t stain the dough.
1/4 cup white chocolate chips

How to Make Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies

Step 1: Cream the Butter

In your mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until light & fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps create a soft texture in your cookies.

Step 2: Mix in Sugar and Flavorings

Add powdered sugar, almond extract, and pistachio pudding mix. Beat until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Add Color (Optional)

If desired, drop in food coloring for a darker hue. This adds an extra touch of fun to your cookies!

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Gradually add the all-purpose flour while mixing until fully incorporated into the dough.

Step 5: Fold in Cherries and Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in chopped cherries and white chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep those lovely chunks intact!

Step 6: Chill the Dough

Wrap your cookie dough in plastic wrap and freeze for about 15-30 minutes until slightly firm. This helps maintain their shape while baking.

Step 7: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 8: Shape the Cookies

Scoop about 1/2 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball with your hands. Gently flatten each ball slightly before placing them on the cookie sheet.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for 9-12 minutes. Once baked, open the oven door and gently press down on each cookie with the bottom of a glass cup to flatten them further.

Step 10: Final Bake

Return them to bake for another 3-5 minutes or until they are set but still soft in texture.

Step 11: Cool Down

Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before dusting with powdered sugar if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies!

How to Serve Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies

Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, these cookies make the perfect accompaniment.

With a Cup of Tea

Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of tea for a cozy treat. The flavors of cherry and pistachio complement herbal teas beautifully.

As Dessert for Special Occasions

Present them as a dessert during celebrations or family gatherings. Their vibrant colors and unique taste will impress your guests.

Arrange these cookies on a platter with other cookies. Mixing textures and flavors adds variety to your spread, making it visually appealing.

Paired with Ice Cream

Serve Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies alongside a scoop of vanilla or pistachio ice cream. This combination offers a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.

How to Perfect Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies

Perfecting your Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies can elevate your baking game. Follow these tips for the best results.

Use room temperature butter: Softened butter mixes more easily, creating a light and fluffy texture in your dough.
Chill the dough: Letting the dough rest ensures that the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Don’t overmix the flour: Gently folding in the flour helps keep the cookies tender and soft.
Experiment with toppings: Consider adding extra cherries or chopped pistachios on top before baking for added flavor and visual appeal.
Adjust baking time: Keep an eye on the cookies while they bake; they should be set but still soft when you take them out of the oven.

Best Side Dishes for Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies

Pairing side dishes with Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options to consider.

Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese, which offer creamy textures that pair well with cookie flavors.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that complements the richness of the cookies.
Nut Mix: A blend of roasted nuts provides crunch and contrasts nicely with soft cookie textures.
Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station for dipping fruit or leftover cookie pieces, turning dessert into an interactive experience.
Coffee or Espresso: Brewed coffee enhances the sweet flavors of the cookies while providing a nice caffeine kick to round off your treat time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies can be a breeze, but there are common mistakes to watch out for.

Bold Ingredients: Forgetting to measure ingredients accurately can lead to inconsistent results. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
Bold Overmixing the Dough: Mixing too much after adding flour can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for soft, tender cookies.
Bold Inadequate Chilling Time: Skipping the chilling step can result in cookies spreading too much. Chill the dough to help maintain their shape.
Bold Ignoring Oven Temperature: Not preheating your oven can affect baking time and texture. Always preheat to 350 degrees Fahrenheit before baking.
Bold Neglecting Toppings: Forgetting to sprinkle powdered sugar on top can reduce visual appeal. Consider this finishing touch for an inviting look.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container.
They will last for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies

Place cookies in an airtight freezer-safe container.
They will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 5 minutes or until warm.
Microwave: Heat individually on low power for about 10-15 seconds.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies.

Can I use other nuts instead of pistachios?

Yes, you can substitute pistachios with almonds or walnuts for different flavors and textures.

How do I prevent cherries from staining the dough?

Chill chopped cherries in the freezer for 15-20 minutes before folding them into the dough. This helps minimize staining.

What if I don’t have almond extract?

If you lack almond extract, vanilla extract is a great alternative that complements the flavors well.

How do I store leftover cookies?

Store leftover Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Cherry Pistachio Crinkle Cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. You can personalize them by adding different nuts or using various fruit flavorings. Don’t hesitate—try making this delightful treat today!

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