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Buttery pistachio cookie bars are that perfect mix of rich buttery goodness and nutty flavor wrapped in a soft chewy bite. They always steal the show on a dessert table and just happen to be incredibly easy to make with only a handful of ingredients and almost no fuss. If you love cookies and pistachios this recipe is about to become your reliable go-to for parties holidays or just a cozy weekend at home
The first time I made these I was looking for a green dessert for St Patricks Day and they disappeared before they even cooled completely
Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: select a high quality European style when possible for the richest flavor
- Large eggs: provide structure and keep the bars tender make sure they are at room temperature for best mixing
- Pistachio instant pudding mix: creates that signature nuttiness and gorgeous tint opt for a well known brand for depth and color
- Sugar cookie mix: gives you the right sweetness and chewy bite choose a mix that uses real vanilla if possible
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cream the Butter and Eggs:
- In a large mixing bowl use a sturdy spatula or hand mixer to whip the softened butter eggs and pistachio pudding mix until the mixture looks smooth creamy and lightly fluffed this step is key for a tender bar
- Mix in the Cookie Mix:
- Add the sugar cookie mix slowly blending it thoroughly with the wet mixture until you have a sticky soft dough do not rush this as you want everything fully combined without dry pockets
- Prepare the Pan:
- Grease a 10 x 15 inch baking sheet well making sure to get the corners then dollop all the dough and press it evenly all the way to the edges with clean hands or a spatula smooth the top for even baking
- Bake and Cool:
- Place in a preheated 375 degree oven and watch for the edges to become just lightly golden which should take around 15 minutes depending on your oven once done cool completely so the bars hold together cleanly when sliced
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I adore how the green color pops on a dessert table especially in spring and my kids always ask if it is magic because it disappears so fast when friends come over
Storage Tips
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days for longer freshness keep them in the fridge tightly wrapped they also freeze beautifully just layer parchment between bars and pack into a freezer bag
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have unsalted butter you can use salted butter just reduce or skip any extra salt in the recipe for added texture sprinkle chopped roasted pistachios on top before baking or swap in vanilla pudding mix for a mellower flavor and subtle green hue
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Serving Suggestions
These bars dress up easily so try drizzling melted white chocolate on top or dusting with powdered sugar for special occasions they pair well with strong coffee or black tea and can be packed into lunchboxes as a surprise treat
Pistachio Cookie Bars Around the World
Pistachios are beloved in Middle Eastern Indian and Mediterranean baking so these bars feel like a playful shortcut on classic nutty desserts they make a festive addition to any holiday spread or afternoon tea
Recipe FAQs
- → What gives these bars their green color?
The vibrant green hue comes from pistachio instant pudding mix combined with the other ingredients, resulting in a natural-looking shade.
- → Can I substitute other pudding flavors?
For a flavor change, you can swap the pistachio pudding mix with other instant pudding flavors, but this will alter both the color and taste.
- → Do I need to use unsalted butter?
Unsalted butter is recommended to control the saltiness, but you may use salted butter if that's all you have—just expect a slightly saltier result.
- → How do I know when the bars are baked through?
The edges should be lightly golden, and the center should set without excessive browning. Overbaking will dry out the bars, so keep a close watch near the end.
- → Can I add chopped pistachios to the dough?
Yes, you can fold in chopped pistachios for extra crunch and flavor, or sprinkle them on top before baking for added texture.