Pistachio Ghraibeh is a delicate variation of the traditional Middle Eastern shortbread cookie. Infused with finely ground pistachios, these cookies have a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture and a mildly sweet, nutty flavor. Each piece is elegantly topped with a whole pistachio, making them perfect for festive occasions like Ramadan, Eid, or simply as an everyday treat with tea or coffee.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – Requires only a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture – These cookies are soft, crumbly, and incredibly delicate.
- Elegant Presentation – The pistachio garnish adds a touch of sophistication.
- Perfect for Special Occasions – Ideal for Ramadan, Eid, or as a gift for loved ones.
- Naturally Egg-Free – A great option for those with egg allergies or dietary preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ cup butter, softened
- ½ cup finely ground pistachios
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Whole pistachios (for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 300°F (150°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, beat the butter and powdered sugar together until light and creamy. Add the vanilla extract, ground pistachios, flour, and salt. Mix until a smooth dough forms. If the dough feels dry, knead it gently with your hands.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on the baking sheet, leaving space between each. Press a whole pistachio into the center of each cookie.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not browned. Ghraibeh should remain pale for the signature melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Cool & Serve: Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a plate. Serve with Arabic coffee or tea for an authentic experience.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 20 cookies
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories: 120 kcal per cookie
Variations
- Rosewater Flavor: Add a teaspoon of rose water for a subtle floral aroma.
- Chocolate-Dipped Ghraibeh: Dip half of each cooled cookie in melted chocolate for a rich contrast.
- Orange Zest Twist: Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough for a citrusy hint.
- Nut Mix: Replace half of the pistachios with finely ground almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Sugar-Coated: Lightly dust the cookies with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
- Refrigeration: Keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks for extended freshness.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: These cookies do not require reheating but can be slightly warmed in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for a few minutes if desired.
FAQs
Why are my Ghraibeh cookies too hard?
Overbaking can make them hard. Remove them from the oven while still pale and allow them to cool completely.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to prevent the cookies from being too salty.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour substitute for a similar texture.
Can I replace butter with oil?
No, butter is essential for the rich, crumbly texture of Ghraibeh. Oil would change the consistency.
Why did my cookies crack?
Cracks can occur if the dough is too dry. Knead it slightly or add a teaspoon of melted butter if needed.
Should I chill the dough before baking?
Chilling is not necessary for this recipe, but if your kitchen is warm, a short chill can help prevent spreading.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, they store well, so you can prepare them a few days in advance.
What is the best way to grind pistachios?
Use a food processor to finely grind pistachios, but avoid over-processing to prevent them from becoming oily.
Can I add cardamom to the dough?
Yes, a pinch of cardamom enhances the flavor beautifully.
How do I prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet?
Always use parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
Pistachio Ghraibeh is a simple yet elegant Middle Eastern cookie that offers a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth experience. With its delicate sweetness, nutty aroma, and buttery texture, it is the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with Arabic coffee, tea, or as a festive dessert, these cookies are sure to impress. Try this easy recipe today and indulge in the timeless flavors of Middle Eastern baking!
