Scrumptious Pistachio Cookie Bars Recipe

Heavenly Pistachio Cookie Bars Recipe: Sweet Magic

Soft, buttery cookies studded with crunchy pistachio delight cookie bars invite you to indulge in a sweet symphony of flavors.

These irresistible treats blend nutty richness with delicate sweetness that melts in your mouth.

Inspired by traditional bakery favorites, the recipe promises a simple yet elegant dessert experience.

Each bar combines wholesome ingredients with the distinctive taste of pistachios.

The subtle green hue and delicate crunch make these bars a stunning addition to any dessert spread.

Bakers of all skill levels can easily master this delightful recipe.

Treat yourself to a batch of these mouthwatering bars and watch them disappear in moments.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Calories: 155 kcal

Servings: 13

For Base Ingredients:
  • Unsalted Butter: Provides rich, creamy texture and helps bind ingredients together, select high-quality butter for best flavor.
  • Eggs: Adds structure and moisture to the cookie bars, choose fresh eggs at room temperature for smooth mixing.
  • Pistachio Pudding Mix: Infuses intense pistachio flavor and helps create a unique, tender texture, opt for instant mix for consistent results.
For Dry Ingredients:
  • Sugar Cookie Mix: Serves as the primary flour base, creates a classic sweet foundation for the bars, select a reliable brand for consistent texture.
For Baking Preparation:
  • Baking Sheet: Provides surface for even baking and easy removal, use a non-stick or lightly greased 10 x 15-inch pan for perfect cookie bars.

Tools for Pistachio Bar Preparation

  • Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining and creaming ingredients smoothly.
  • Electric Mixer or Whisk: Perfect for creating a creamy, well-blended base.
  • 10 x 15-inch Baking Sheet: Crucial for spreading and baking the cookie dough evenly.
  • Spatula: Great for scraping bowl sides and spreading dough.
  • Sharp Knife: Needed for clean, precise cutting of cooled cookie bars.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions.
  • Oven Warmup

Set your oven to cozy up at 375F, getting toasty while you prepare the delightful treat.

  • Creamy Foundation

Grab a big mixing bowl and blend butter, eggs, and pistachio pudding mix into a silky smooth concoction that looks like a dreamy cloud.

  • Cookie Magic

Fold in the sugar cookie mix, stirring gently until everything hugs together in a soft, sticky embrace.

  • Baking Surface Prep

Coat your baking sheet with a whisper of grease, then spread the dough evenly like a warm blanket covering every corner.

  • Golden Transformation

Slide the pan into the oven and watch the magic happen. The edges will turn a beautiful golden hue in about 15-20 minutes, signaling your bars are ready to shine.

  • Cooling and Celebration

Let the bars cool completely, then slice them into perfect squares that promise pure pistachio pleasure in every bite.

Add-Ons to Make It Your Own

  • Nutty Texture Boost: Sprinkle extra chopped pistachios on top of the bars right after baking for a delightful crunch and enhanced nutty flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the cookie dough up to two days in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator for quick baking when needed.
  • Flavor Fusion Fun: Experiment with different pudding mix flavors like vanilla or almond to create unique variations of these delectable bars.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap the sugar cookie mix for a gluten-free alternative to make these bars accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
  • Decorative Drizzle: Once cooled, add a light drizzle of white chocolate or a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the visual appeal and add a touch of sweetness.

How to Serve Pistachio Bars Well

  • Dessert Pairing Paradise: Serve these pistachio bars alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a creamy, cool contrast that amplifies the nutty flavor profile.
  • Afternoon Tea Companion: Arrange these bars on a decorative plate with a steaming cup of Earl Grey tea, creating a delightful mid-day treat that feels elegantly indulgent.
  • Gift-Worthy Presentation: Wrap individual bars in parchment paper with a twine bow, transforming them into charming homemade gifts perfect for friends, neighbors, or workplace colleagues who appreciate sweet, thoughtful gestures.
  • Breakfast Brunch Accent: Crumble these cookies over Greek yogurt or include them as part of a breakfast dessert spread, adding a playful pistachio twist to morning gatherings.

Tips to Keep Bars from Getting Soggy

  • Quick Cool-Down Strategy: Let the cookie bars rest at room temperature for 30-45 minutes before cutting, allowing them to firm up and prevent crumbling during slicing.
  • Compact Storage Solution: Stack bars between parchment paper layers inside an airtight container, keeping them fresh for up to 5 days at room temperature or 10 days when refrigerated.
  • Freezing Friendly Technique: Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. These delightful treats can be frozen for 2-3 months without losing flavor or texture.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire batch ahead of time, storing unbaked dough in the refrigerator for 24 hours before baking. This method intensifies the pistachio flavor and creates a richer cookie experience.
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Scrumptious Pistachio Cookie Bars Recipe

Scrumptious Pistachio Cookie Bars Recipe


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4.8 from 20 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 13 1x

Description

Scrumptious pistachio delight cookie bars marry classic sweetness with nutty sophistication. Mediterranean-inspired layers offer richness and delicate crunch you will savor with pure pleasure.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 package sugar cookie mix
  • ½ cup (113 grams/4 oz) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3.4 ounces (96 grams/3.4 oz) pistachio instant pudding mix

Instructions

  1. Preparation: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack in the center for even baking, creating an ideal environment for the pistachio cookie bars.
  2. Mixing Foundation: Combine butter, pudding mix, and eggs in a large mixing bowl, whisking vigorously until the mixture transforms into a smooth, creamy blend with no visible lumps or streaks.
  3. Dough Formation: Incorporate the sugar cookie mix into the creamy base, gently folding and stirring until a consistent, slightly tacky dough materializes, ensuring all ingredients are thoroughly integrated.
  4. Pan Preparation: Grease a 10 x 15-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter, then evenly distribute the pistachio-infused dough across the surface, using gentle pressure to create a uniform layer that reaches all corners.
  5. Baking Process: Slide the prepared pan into the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, watching for a delicate golden-brown perimeter that signals perfect doneness without risking over-browning.
  6. Cooling and Cutting: Remove the pan from the oven and place on a cooling rack, allowing the cookie base to reach complete room temperature before slicing into precise rectangular bars that showcase the pistachio-studded texture.

Notes

  • Butter Temperature Matters: Use softened butter at room temperature for smoother mixing and better cookie bar texture.
  • Pudding Mix Magic: The instant pudding mix helps create a more moist and tender cookie base with enhanced flavor depth.
  • Pan Preparation Tip: Line the baking pan with parchment paper for easier removal and clean cutting of cookie bars.
  • Watch Baking Time Closely: Ovens vary, so start checking at 12 minutes to prevent over-browning and ensure a perfectly golden edge.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Middle Eastern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 13
  • Calories: 155
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 220 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 4 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 19 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Jessica Martin

Jessica Martin

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

Recipe Development, Food Styling and Photography​, Seasonal and Local Ingredients​, Vegetarian and Vegan Cuisine​, Culinary Education​

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen management, and food safety. Gained hands-on experience in preparing diverse cuisines and understanding flavor profiles

Oregon Culinary Institute

  • Program: Baking and Pastry Certificate
  • Focus: Specialized education in baking fundamentals, pastry arts, and dessert presentation. Emphasized creativity and precision in crafting baked goods.​

Jessica Martin is a talented food writer and recipe creator who specializes in seasonal cooking and approachable home baking. 

Educated at Portland Community College with additional pastry training from Oregon Culinary Institute, Jessica’s culinary journey spans nearly a decade of creating and sharing flavorful recipes. 

Her deep appreciation for local ingredients shapes each of her recipes, making them both accessible and inspiring. At Beard and Bonnet, Jessica uses her cheerful, down-to-earth writing to help readers effortlessly bring new tastes and creative dishes into their daily routines.

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