Christmas Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints Recipe

Delightful Christmas cookies! These festive Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints are easy to make and bursting with holiday flavor. Rich chocolate cookies studded with pistachios, filled with a creamy red filling, and drizzled with melted chocolate – the perfect treat for your Christmas gatherings or holiday cookie exchange. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these elegant and delicious cookies!

Prep Time 25 mins
Cook Time 0 mins
Calories 217.3 kcal
Protein 4g
Rating Be the first
Christmas Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints 69

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Forktionary editorial kitchen team

The Forktionary Kitchen Team

Adapted from Food.com, then tested & standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Christmas Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 1/4 cups softened butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup mini chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
  • A few drops of red food coloring
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 cup chocolate chips
  • 1 tablespoon shortening

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How to Make Christmas Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup (2 sticks) softened butter and 1 cup powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon almond extract, 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant chocolate pudding mix, and 1 large egg.
  4. Gradually add 3 cups all-purpose flour and 1 cup chocolate chips, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  5. Roll dough into 1-inch balls.
  6. Roll balls in 1/2 cup chopped pistachios.
  7. Place balls onto ungreased baking sheets.
  8. Using your thumb, make an indentation in the center of each cookie.
  9. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden brown.
  10. Let cookies cool completely on baking sheets.
  11. **Prepare the filling:** In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons milk, and a few drops of red food coloring. Mix until smooth and a thick consistency is reached.
  12. Spoon a scant teaspoon of the red filling into the center of each cooled cookie.
  13. **Prepare the chocolate drizzle:** Melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon shortening in a double boiler or microwave until smooth.
  14. Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies.
  15. Let the chocolate drizzle set completely before serving.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

4 g

Sugar

52g

Fat

36g

Carbs

7g

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Christmas Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints?

Christmas Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints takes about 25 minutes from start to finish — roughly 25 minutes to prepare and 0 minutes to cook.

How many calories are in Christmas Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints?

Christmas Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints has approximately 217.3 calories per serving, with about 4 g protein, 7 g carbohydrates and 20 g fat.

What ingredients do I need for Christmas Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints?

The key ingredients for Christmas Chocolate Pistachio Thumbprints are Powdered Sugar, Butter, Vanilla, Almond Extract, Egg, Pistachio Pudding Mix. See the full list with measurements above.

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