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Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

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  • Author: KimEasy

Description

Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are a delightful twist on traditional sugar cookies, combining the nutty flavor of pistachios with a soft, chewy texture. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting and garnished with chopped pistachios, these bars are perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cookie Bars:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted 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)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough:
    • Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
    • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and almond extract; mix until well combined.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, instant pistachio pudding mix, baking powder, and salt.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  2. Bake the Bars:
    • Grease a 9ร—13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
    • Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish.
    • Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  3. Prepare the Frosting:
    • In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
    • Add the vanilla extract, almond extract, and a dash of salt; mix well.
    • Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy.
  4. Assemble the Bars:
    • Once the cookie bars have cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
    • Sprinkle the chopped pistachios over the frosting for garnish.
    • Cut into squares or rectangles and serve.

Notes

  • For a more vibrant green color, you can add a few drops of green food coloring to the dough, though this is optional.
  • These bars can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.