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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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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cookie bars, Pistachio Cookie Bars, pistachio cookies, pistachio dessert, St. Patrick's Day treat
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 24 Bars
Calories: 210kcal
Cost: $10

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

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350℉ and prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by spraying with cooking spray or lining with parchment paper.
  • In a large bowl, mix together the softened butter, pistachio pudding mix, and white sugar until well combined.
  • Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, and beat the mixture until it becomes light and fluffy.
  • Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together, then add them to the wet ingredients. Beat until just combined.
  • Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden.
  • Allow the bars to cool completely in the dish.
  • 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.
  • If necessary, add a tablespoon of milk to adjust the frosting consistency.
  • 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!

Nutrition

Serving: 1Bar | Calories: 210kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 10g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 35mg | Sodium: 180mg | Potassium: 60mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 15g | Vitamin A: 5IU | Calcium: 2mg | Iron: 4mg