The decorative qurabiyas are Iranian shortbread cookies made with ground blanched almonds, egg whites, sugar, and a small amount of flour. The batter is piped into circular shapes, and the cookies are then baked until crispy. Before they are put in the oven, qurabiyas are usually decorated with chopped pistachios, which provide a nice decorative contrast to the pale dough.

It is believed that they have originated in the Iranian city of Tabriz, located in the eastern part of the country, where they can be found in almost every traditional bakery. Most commonly, tourists buy them as convenient Tabriz souvenirs. These soft and chewy sweet biscuits have an immensely important place in the Iranian culture, especially during wedding ceremonies.

Since ancient times, platters with freshly baked qurabiya cookies have been given as a gift to the bride by the groom’s family. They are also a common dessert staple during Iranian celebrations, especially Nowruz, the Persian New Year festivity.

Tradition suggests that this sweet decorative dessert should be enjoyed alongside freshly brewed chai.