Diwali Special: Pistachio & Rose Shortbreads
Celebrate Diwali with these buttery, cardamom-scented pistachio and rose shortbreads. They are easy to make, beautifully fragrant, and perfect for gifting to friends and family. The delicate hint of rose and the crunch of pistachios make them a festive favorite. Rose syrup is widely available in large supermarkets, Asian food sections, and South Asian or Middle Eastern grocery stores.
Ingredients
For the shortbread:
- 250g unsalted butter, very soft
- 100g caster sugar
- 8 cardamom pods, seeds removed and ground
- ⅛ tsp fine salt
- 450g plain flour
For the icing:
- 85g icing sugar
- 1 tbsp rose syrup
- 1 tsp cold water
- Chopped pistachios, to decorate
Method
1. Prepare the Tin
Grease and line a 20cm (8in) square baking tin with baking paper, leaving a slight overhang to lift the shortbreads out later.
2. Make the Dough
Cream together butter, sugar, cardamom, and salt in a stand mixer with the beater attachment for 2 minutes until pale and fluffy. Alternatively, use a handheld mixer.
Gradually add the flour and mix on low for 40–50 seconds until the dough comes together and is soft.
3. Shape the Shortbread
Press the mixture into the baking tin using a silicone spatula to compact it evenly. Cut into 12 rectangles, careful not to cut through the baking paper. Mark with a fork all over and chill in the fridge for 20 minutes.
4. Bake the Shortbread
Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/Gas 4. Bake for 25 minutes. Score the fingers again, return to the oven for 15 minutes, and score once more. Leave to cool in the tin, then lift out using the paper overhang.
5. Prepare the Icing
Mix icing sugar, rose syrup, and cold water in a small bowl to form a pink icing. Drizzle over half of the cooled shortbread fingers, sprinkle with chopped pistachios, and allow to set for 1–2 hours.
Tips
- If rose syrup is unavailable, use 1½ tbsp cold water, a drop of concentrated rosewater, and optional pink food coloring.
- Chill the shortbreads before baking to help them hold their shape.
- These shortbreads can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them ideal for festive gifting.
These Pistachio & Rose Shortbreads are a fragrant, buttery treat that bring a touch of elegance and sweetness to your Diwali celebrations.
