These Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars are the ultimate treat for pistachio lovers! With a buttery shortbread crust, a creamy pistachio pudding filling, and crunchy pistachio topping, they are the perfect balance of rich, chewy, and nutty flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, minimal prep time.
✔ Creamy & Crunchy – A smooth pistachio filling with a crisp crust and nutty crunch.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for potlucks, holidays, or everyday treats.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the bars.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds a rich, buttery flavor.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Provides just the right amount of sweetness.
For the Filling
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix – The star ingredient for flavor and texture.
- 1 cup whole milk – Helps create a creamy filling.
- 1 egg – Adds structure.
- ½ cup white chocolate chips – Balances the nuttiness with sweetness.
- ½ cup chopped pistachios – Enhances texture and flavor.
For the Topping
- ¼ cup chopped pistachios – Extra crunch and visual appeal.
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional) – For a light, sweet dusting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Baking Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- In a bowl, mix flour, butter, and sugar until crumbly.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool slightly before adding the filling.
Step 3: Prepare the Pistachio Filling
- In a separate bowl, whisk together pistachio pudding mix, milk, and egg until smooth.
- Fold in white chocolate chips and chopped pistachios.
- Pour the mixture over the slightly cooled crust and spread evenly.
Step 4: Bake & Cool
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is set.
- Let the bars cool completely before slicing.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped pistachios for extra crunch.
- Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Serving & Storage
- Yield: 12 bars
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Baking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: 285 kcal per bar
Storage Tips
✔ Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
✔ Refrigerate: Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week for extra chewiness.
✔ Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Tips for the Best Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars
✔ Use chilled butter for the crust – Helps create a flaky texture.
✔ Refrigerate before slicing – Makes cutting clean, even bars easier.
✔ Try different chocolate chips – Swap white chocolate for dark or milk chocolate for a unique twist.
✔ Add almond extract – A ¼ teaspoon enhances the nutty flavor even more.
Variations & Add-Ons
Chocolate Pistachio Bars: Drizzle with melted dark chocolate for an indulgent touch.
Crunchy Crust Alternative: Swap the flour crust for a graham cracker or shortbread crust.
Coconut Pistachio Bars: Stir ½ cup shredded coconut into the filling for added texture.
Final Thoughts
These Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars are a delightful combination of sweet, nutty, and creamy flavors in every bite. Whether you’re making them for a gathering or just for yourself, they are sure to impress!
Try them today and let me know how they turn out!