Mediterranean Fruit & Nut Shortbread
Mediterranean Fruit & Nut Shortbread is a buttery, crumbly cookie with a balance of sweetness, texture, and gentle citrus warmth. Dried cranberries add a touch of tartness, pistachios bring color and crunch, and the classic shortbread base melts in your mouth. Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, this recipe is simple yet elegant enough for holidays, tea time, or gifting. Optional additions like orange zest, almond extract, or a drizzle of white chocolate can elevate the flavor without complicating the process. The dough comes together quickly with pantry staples, and the result is a crisp, golden shortbread that slices beautifully and keeps well for days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30–40 minutes
Bake Time: 18–22 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 18–22 cookies
Ingredients
1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature
1/2 cup powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup dried cranberries, roughly chopped
1/2 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
Optional Enhancements:
1 tablespoon orange zest
1/4–1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Melted white chocolate for drizzle or dipping
Instructions
Preheat oven to 170°C (340°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
In a bowl, cream softened butter and powdered sugar until light and smooth.
Mix in vanilla extract and optional almond extract if using.
In another bowl, whisk flour and salt together.
Gradually add dry ingredients into the butter mixture until a soft dough forms.
Fold in chopped cranberries, pistachios, and orange zest if desired.
Shape dough into a log or press into a flat disk about 1 cm thick.
Wrap and chill dough for 30–40 minutes to firm up.
Slice into rounds or cut into squares and place on prepared tray.
Bake for 18–22 minutes until edges are lightly golden. Cool completely before serving or drizzling with melted white chocolate.
Tips
Use room temperature butter for a smooth, even dough texture.
Do not overmix once flour is added to keep cookies tender.
Chill dough well to prevent spreading during baking.
Chop nuts and fruit evenly for consistent texture.
If dough feels dry, add 1–2 teaspoons milk.
Rotate baking tray halfway for even browning.
Let cookies cool fully before handling as they firm up while cooling.
For cleaner slices, use a sharp knife dipped in flour.
Lightly toast pistachios beforehand for deeper flavor.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain crispness.
Variations
Replace pistachios with almonds or walnuts.
Add chopped dried apricots or figs for a richer Mediterranean touch.
Use lemon zest instead of orange for a sharper citrus note.
Dip half the cookie in dark chocolate instead of white.
Add a pinch of cardamom or cinnamon for subtle spice.
Shape dough into a tart crust for a shortbread fruit base.
Make mini bite sized cubes for party snacks.
Add sesame seeds for a nutty Mediterranean flavor.
Mix in shredded coconut for added texture.
Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for extra crunch.
Q&A
Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce added salt slightly.
Why chill the dough?
It helps maintain shape and texture while baking.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, up to 2 months wrapped tightly.
How do I know cookies are done?
Edges should be pale golden, not dark.
Can I make them gluten free?
Use a 1:1 gluten free flour blend.
Why are my cookies crumbly?
Too much flour or overbaking may cause dryness.
Can I reduce sugar?
Slightly, but it may change texture.
What pairs well with these cookies?
Tea, coffee, or citrus flavored drinks.
Can I make them vegan?
Use plant-based butter alternatives.
How long do they stay fresh?
About 5–7 days in an airtight container.
Nutrition
(Approx. per cookie)
Calories: 140
Fat: 9g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 1g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Fruit & Nut Shortbread offers a lovely balance of buttery richness, tart cranberries, and crunchy pistachios in every bite. The recipe is simple enough for beginners yet versatile for creative variations. With optional citrus zest or chocolate drizzle, you can easily customize the cookies to suit different occasions or flavor preferences. Whether served with tea, packaged as gifts, or enjoyed as an everyday treat, these shortbread cookies deliver comforting flavor and elegant presentation with minimal effort.