Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful treat that combines the creamy richness of pistachio pudding with the soft, buttery texture of sugar cookie bars. Imagine biting into these bars and experiencing the sweet nuttiness of pistachios dancing on your tongue, while the cookie base melts in your mouth like a warm hug on a cold day. For more inspiration, check out this more dessert recipes recipe.
These bars are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply want to impress your friends at a casual get-together. I remember the first time I made these; my friends raved about them, and they disappeared faster than you can say “pistachio pudding.” The excitement of sharing this recipe is palpable, and I promise you will love every bite!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for bakers of all skill levels
- With their luscious flavor profile, these bars strike the perfect balance between sweet and nutty
- The vibrant green color adds visual appeal, making them a showstopper for any dessert table
- Plus, they are versatile enough to enjoy as an afternoon snack or a party dessert!
I once made these bars for a family gathering, and everyone couldn’t stop complimenting me on how delicious they were.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Softened butter ensures a rich flavor and chewy texture in your cookie bars.
- Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness that perfectly complements the pistachio flavor.
- Pistachio Pudding Mix: The star ingredient provides that signature taste and creamy texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sift it for lighter bars.
- Baking Powder: Helps the bars rise, giving them that fluffy texture we crave.
- Eggs: Bind everything together; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Chopped Pistachios: For an extra crunch and nutty flavor; choose fresh ones for best results.
- Vanilla Extract: A must-have for adding depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Powdered Sugar (for topping): Dust over the cooled bars for an elegant finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat and Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Cream Together Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes—trust me; this step is crucial for texture.
Add in Eggs and Vanilla Extract: Mix in two large eggs one at a time to ensure even blending. Add vanilla extract for that lovely aroma; it’s like magic in your bowl!
Incorporate Pistachio Pudding Mix and Dry Ingredients: Stir in the pistachio pudding mix until fully combined. Then add all-purpose flour and baking powder gradually while mixing until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep those bars tender.
Add Chopped Pistachios and Spread into Pan: Gently fold in chopped pistachios into the batter. Pour it into your prepared baking pan, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them; when you smell that heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen, they’re almost ready!
After allowing them to cool completely in the pan, dust with powdered sugar before cutting into squares or rectangles. Serve them at room temperature or chilled—either way, they’re simply divine! Enjoy these delightful treats with family and friends while creating new memories around the table!
You Must Know
- The secret to these Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars lies in the balance of flavors
- The nutty pistachio combined with creamy pudding creates a delightful texture that’s hard to resist
- Make sure to let them cool properly for the best results; the aroma will tempt everyone in your home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by prepping your ingredients first, mix the cookie dough, and then incorporate the pudding mix for a consistent batter. This method ensures even distribution and saves you from a last-minute scramble.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out pistachios for other nuts or add chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with flavored extracts like almond or vanilla to enhance the taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store these cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For a warm treat, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Keep your butter at room temperature for easier mixing; it creates a smoother dough that’s easier to work with
- Don’t skip chilling the dough if it feels too soft; it helps maintain shape during baking
- Finally, always use fresh pistachios for maximum flavor and crunch!
Sometimes I whip up these Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars when friends visit, and their smiles say it all—nothing beats a homemade treat shared over laughter and good company.
FAQ
Can I use instant pudding mix instead of cook-and-serve?
Yes, instant pudding works just fine and saves you some cooking time!
How do I know when my bars are done baking?
Look for edges that are lightly golden and a center that is set but slightly soft.
Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Absolutely! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing for up to three months.
Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are a heavenly treat that perfectly blend the creamy taste of pistachio pudding with soft, buttery sugar cookie bars. Each bite offers a delightful nuttiness and an irresistibly melt-in-your-mouth texture. Ideal for any occasion, these bars are easy to make and will impress your friends and family at gatherings or as a sweet afternoon snack.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3.4 oz (1 package) pistachio pudding mix
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup chopped pistachios
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Powdered sugar (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition; stir in vanilla extract.
- Mix in the pistachio pudding mix until combined, then gradually add flour and baking powder, mixing until just incorporated.
- Fold in chopped pistachios and pour batter into the prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are golden brown; cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar and cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar (50g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg