Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

Soft, chewy, and bursting with unique flavor, Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are an irresistible treat that brings a fun twist to classic sugar cookies. With the rich, nutty flavor of pistachio pudding and a soft cookie bar texture, these bars strike the perfect balance between sweet and sophisticated. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, they’re as pretty as they are delicious.

The use of instant pistachio pudding in the dough not only gives these bars their signature pale green hue but also helps keep the texture moist and tender. Almond and vanilla extracts enhance the flavor profile, making each bite aromatic and flavorful. These cookie bars are great for potlucks, bake sales, or just when you’re craving something different from the usual chocolate chip cookie.

If you’re a fan of pistachio desserts—or just want to surprise your taste buds—this recipe is for you. It’s easy to make, fun to serve, and perfect for spring gatherings, holidays, or anytime you’re in the mood for a unique sweet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor – Pistachio pudding adds a rich, nutty sweetness you don’t find in typical sugar cookies.
2. Moist and Chewy Texture – Thanks to pudding mix and cornstarch, every bite is soft and perfectly tender.
3. Easy to Make – No rolling or chilling required—just press the dough into a pan and bake.
4. Perfect for Sharing – These bars slice cleanly and look beautiful on a dessert tray.
5. Crowd-Pleaser – A fun and unexpected twist that gets people talking (and asking for the recipe!).

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Instant pistachio pudding mix
• Eggs
• Almond extract
• Vanilla extract
• Kosher salt
• Baking soda
• Cornstarch
• All-purpose flour

Frosting:

• Unsalted butter
• Cream cheese
• Almond extract
• Powdered sugar
• Chopped pistachios

Variations

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in white or dark chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
• Citrus Zest: Add a bit of lemon or orange zest to brighten up the flavor.
• No Frosting: Skip the frosting and dust with powdered sugar for a lighter version.
• Holiday Version: Top with red and green sprinkles for Christmas or pastel for Easter.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute to make the bars gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Mix in the pistachio pudding mix.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together salt, baking soda, cornstarch, and flour. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Press and Bake

Press the dough evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool Completely

Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan.

Step 5: Make the Frosting

Beat together the butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add almond extract and slowly mix in the powdered sugar until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 6: Frost and Garnish

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Cut into squares or bars and serve. Store any leftovers in the fridge.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter and frosting.
• Don’t overbake—the bars should be set but still soft in the center.
• For clean slices, chill the bars slightly before cutting.
• Toast the pistachios before topping for extra flavor.
• Add a drop of green food coloring if you want a more vibrant color.

How to Serve

• As a Dessert Tray Star: Slice into neat bars and serve on a platter at parties.
• With Coffee or Tea: These are perfect with a warm beverage for an afternoon treat.
• For Holidays: Dress them up with festive sprinkles or edible glitter.
• At Bake Sales: Their unique flavor and pretty color make them a standout.
• Gift-Wrapped: Wrap in cellophane with a ribbon for a homemade gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Freezing

Wrap unfrosted bars tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and frost before serving.

Reheating

No reheating needed—these bars are best served cool or at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use sugar-free pudding mix?

Yes, but it may alter the texture slightly. Adjust sweetness to taste.

2. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger baking sheet or make two 9×13 pans.

3. Do I need to refrigerate the bars?

Yes, because of the cream cheese frosting, store in the fridge.

4. Can I use salted butter?

You can, but reduce the added salt slightly.

5. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.

6. How long do they stay fresh?

They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 4–5 days.

7. Can I add other nuts?

Sure! Walnuts or almonds can be a nice addition or substitution.

8. Are they overly sweet?

They’re sweet but balanced, especially with the tangy cream cheese frosting.

9. Can I make this into cookies instead?

You could scoop the dough into balls and bake as drop cookies—adjust bake time.

10. Can I skip the frosting?

Yes, they’re delicious even without frosting—just add a dusting of powdered sugar.

Conclusion

Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful and unexpected treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With a soft cookie base, creamy frosting, and crunchy pistachio topping, these bars offer texture, flavor, and visual appeal all in one bite. Perfect for any occasion—from family get-togethers to holiday parties—this recipe is a sweet success that’s sure to impress. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your baking repertoire.

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