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A close-up of Pistachio Cookie Bars topped with cream cheese frosting and chopped pistachios on a plate.

Pistachio Cookie Bars

These soft, flavorful Pistachio Cookie Bars are the perfect treat for any occasion, especially St. Patrick's Day.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 24 Bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cookie Bars:
  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened helps provide a rich texture
  • 2 3.4 ounce boxes instant pistachio pudding mix (adds flavor and moisture)
  • ½ cup white sugar sweetens the bars
  • 2 large eggs binds the dough together
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract enhances flavor
  • ½ teaspoon almond extract adds a hint of almond flavor
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour forms the base of the cookie bars
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder helps the bars rise
  • ¼ teaspoon salt balances the sweetness
For the Frosting:
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened creates a creamy texture
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter softened adds richness to the frosting
  • 2 cups powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the frosting
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract flavor base for the frosting
  • ¼ teaspoon almond extract complements the vanilla in the frosting
  • about 1 tablespoon milk optional for adjusting consistency
  • chopped pistachios or sprinkles for topping optional for decoration

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350℉ and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by spraying with cooking spray or lining with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the softened butter, pistachio pudding mix, and white sugar until well combined.
  3. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy.
  4. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together, then add them to the wet ingredients. Beat until just combined.
  5. Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden.
  6. Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish.
  7. To make the frosting, combine the softened cream cheese, unsalted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract in a medium bowl. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
  8. If necessary, add a tablespoon of milk to adjust the frosting consistency.
  9. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars and top with chopped pistachios or sprinkles for decoration if desired.

Notes

These bars are packed with pistachio flavor and topped with a creamy frosting that makes them irresistible. They're perfect for St. Patrick's Day or any celebration!