Soft Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pistachio Cookie Bars are a deliciously unique twist on traditional cookie bars, blending the soft texture of sugar cookies with the flavor of pistachio pudding and a creamy, tangy frosting. Topped with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, these bars are perfect for festive occasions, family gatherings, or any time you want a treat that’s both nutty and sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and Chewy Texture: The pistachio pudding mix keeps the cookie bars extra soft and chewy.
• Delicate Nutty Flavor: The pistachio pudding and almond extract give a gentle, nutty flavor without overpowering the sweetness.
• Easy to Make: No rolling or shaping dough—just press into a pan and bake.
• Beautiful Presentation: With their light green color and frosting topped with chopped pistachios, these bars are as pretty as they are tasty.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 3/4 cup butter, softened to room temperature
• 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant pistachio pudding mix (dry mix only)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Dash of salt

For the Frosting:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
• Dash of salt
• 1/4 cup chopped pistachios (for garnish, optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, dry pistachio pudding mix, and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Mix until the mixture is creamy and well-combined.
2. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract, beating until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bars tender.

Bake

4. Press the dough evenly into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking pan, using your hands or a spatula to create a smooth, even layer.
5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Let the cookie bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Prepare the Frosting

6. In a small mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
7. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, almond extract, and salt, beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Frost and Garnish

8. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars.
9. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios for added crunch and a pop of color.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Electric mixer
• Large mixing bowl and small mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• 9×13-inch baking pan (greased)
• Knife for chopping pistachios (if using)

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serving: Cut the bars into squares just before serving. They’re perfect for holiday platters or as a dessert centerpiece.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Serve slightly chilled or bring to room temperature before enjoying.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, frost, and garnish before serving.

Variations

• Coconut Twist: Substitute shredded coconut for the chopped pistachios in the frosting garnish for a tropical flavor.
• Extra Nutty: Add 1/4 cup of chopped pistachios directly into the dough for extra crunch in each bite.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the frosted bars for added richness.
• Green Food Coloring: For a more vibrant color, add a few drops of green food coloring to the dough.

Helpful Notes and Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth dough and frosting.
• Instant Pistachio Pudding: Only use dry pudding mix; do not prepare the pudding. It adds flavor and a light green color to the dough.
• Even Spreading: For smooth, even frosting, allow the cookie bars to cool completely. Warm bars may cause the frosting to melt and become runny.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these cookie bars without frosting?
Yes, the bars are delicious on their own. However, the cream cheese frosting adds an extra layer of sweetness and tang that complements the pistachio flavor beautifully.

2. Can I use regular sugar cookie dough instead?
You could, but the pistachio pudding mix gives these bars their unique flavor and color. If you substitute, the bars may lack the pistachio flavor and signature green color.

3. How can I make these bars gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for an easy gluten-free alternative.

4. Can I use low-fat cream cheese for the frosting?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese creates a richer, creamier frosting. Low-fat cream cheese may yield a slightly thinner consistency.

5. How can I add more pistachio flavor?
For a stronger pistachio flavor, try adding a few drops of pistachio extract to the dough or frosting if available.

These Pistachio Cookie Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful treat, bringing a touch of elegance and nutty flavor to any occasion. Enjoy the unique flavor, festive appearance, and irresistible texture—they’re sure to become a favorite!

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