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
- 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.
- Bake the Bars:
- Grease a 9ร13-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.
- 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.
- 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.