Description
Delight in these Pistachio Cookie Bars, a perfect blend of creamy pistachio pudding and soft cookie texture topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. With a subtle almond flavor and optional crunchy pistachio topping, these bars bring a unique twist to classic cookie bars, ideal for gatherings or a sweet treat anytime.
Ingredients
Cookie Base
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 (3.4 ounce) boxes instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Frosting
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
- About 1 tablespoon milk (optional, if needed)
Topping (Optional)
- Chopped pistachios or sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by spraying it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients and Sugar: In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, instant pistachio pudding mix, and white sugar. Beat the mixture until well combined and creamy. Then add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating again until the mixture is fluffy and light in texture.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the wet ingredients. Beat the mixture just until combined; avoid overmixing to keep the cookie bars tender. Spread and press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake the Cookie Base: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the edges start turning a golden brown. Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the cookie base to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
- Prepare the Frosting: In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Whip the mixture thoroughly until it becomes light, creamy, and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add up to one tablespoon of milk to reach the desired consistency.
- Frost and Decorate: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. Optionally, sprinkle chopped pistachios or colorful sprinkles on top for added texture and decoration.
- Serve: Slice into bars and serve. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Notes
- Ensure both butter and cream cheese are softened at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother frosting.
- If you prefer a stronger pistachio flavor, garnish generously with chopped pistachios on top.
- Use parchment paper in the baking dish for easier removal of the bars.
- You can substitute milk with almond milk for a slightly nutty flavor in the frosting.
- Store leftover bars refrigerated and bring them to room temperature before serving for best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American