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–+ servings

Soft Pistachio Cookie Bars

Delight in these soft, nutty pistachio cookie bars that stay tender for days, perfect for celebrations or an everyday treat.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Baking
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened for easy mixing
  • 2 3.4 oz boxes instant pistachio pudding mix (adds extra softness and flavor)
  • ½ cup granulated sugar for sweetness
  • 2 large eggs room temperature for better incorporation
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances flavor
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract optional, for nutty undertone
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour for structure
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder for slight lift
  • ¼ teaspoon salt balances sweetness
  • Frosting:
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened for smooth frosting
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter softened for creamy texture
  • 2 cups powdered sugar sifted for lump-free frosting
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for flavor
  • ¼ teaspoon almond extract optional, to accent pistachio
  • ~1 tablespoon milk optional, for consistency if needed
  • Chopped pistachios or sprinkles for decorative topping, optional

Equipment

  • 1 9x13-inch baking dish Greased with cooking spray or lined with parchment paper
  • 1 Large mixing bowl For combining ingredients
  • 1 Medium mixing bowl For frosting preparation
  • 1 Hand or stand mixer To beat ingredients until fluffy
  • 1 Spatula For spreading batter and frosting evenly
  • 1 set Measuring Cups and Spoons For accurate ingredient measurement
  • 1 Parchment paper Optional, helps with easy removal of bars

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350℉ and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the butter, pistachio pudding mix, and sugar. Beat until evenly blended.
  3. Add eggs, vanilla, and almond extract to the bowl, and continue beating until light and fluffy.
  4. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just incorporated.
  5. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
  7. For frosting: in a medium bowl, blend cream cheese, butter, vanilla, almond extract, and powdered sugar until smooth. Whip until fluffy. If too thick, add a small amount of milk.
  8. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars. Sprinkle with pistachios or festive sprinkles if desired. Cut into bars.

Nutrition

Serving: 50gCalories: 180kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 3gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 50mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 150IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

These pistachio bars are irresistibly soft and flavorful. The creamy frosting adds a luscious finish, and colorful sprinkles or nuts can make them festive. Perfect for sharing or indulging on a cozy afternoon.

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