1) Preheat the oven to 350°.
2) In a stand mixer or large mixing bowl, mix together 1 cup softened butter and 1 cup of sugar for 3 minutes.
3) Scrape down the sides of the bowl and add in 1 egg, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp cardamom powder, and 10-15 stands of crushed saffron. Mix until combined.
4) Next, add 2 1/4 cups flour, 2 tsp baking powder, and 3/4 cup crushed pistachios to the bowl.
5) Mix slowly at first, gradually getting faster until the dough comes together.
PRO TIP: Add a little more flour if needed to get the dough to a soft, workable consistency.
6) Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Use a rolling pin and roll until it is about 1/4 inch thick.
7) Use cookie cutters to cut out fun and festive shapes! Transfer the cookies to a parchment paper lined cookie sheet.
8) Refrigerate cookies for 15-20 mins.
9) Bake at 350° for 8-10 minutes or until the centers are puffy and no longer glossy.
1) In a mixing bowl/stand mixer, add 1/2 cup softened butter, 3 cups powdered sugar, 4 Tbsp milk and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Mix until it is thoroughly combined and the frosting is light and fluffy.
PRO TIP: You can add more powdered sugar or milk to get the frosting to your desired consistency.
2) Pipe the frosting onto the cookies and decorate with sprinkles or sugar for a festive touch!