Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars

Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars are the perfect dessert for anyone who loves a sweet, buttery treat with a touch of something unique. These bars have a soft, chewy texture and a nutty, subtly sweet flavor that comes from the pistachio pudding mix. Topped with a creamy buttercream frosting, they make a beautiful and delicious addition to any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday, or just a special weeknight treat.

The pistachio flavor adds a delightful twist to the classic sugar cookie, creating a flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting. Not only are these bars easy to make, but they also cut into perfect squares, making them ideal for sharing. The frosting adds the perfect finishing touch—smooth, sweet, and just the right amount of richness to balance the pistachio flavor in the cookie base.

These Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars are a must-try for anyone looking for a dessert that’s simple yet impressive, with a flavor that stands out without being overwhelming. They’ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation, whether you’re baking for yourself or for a crowd.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor – The pistachio pudding mix adds a rich, nutty flavor to the sugar cookie bars that’s both unexpected and delightful.
2. Easy to Make – No rolling or cutting out cookie shapes. Just mix, bake, and frost!
3. Soft and Chewy – The texture of these bars is soft, thick, and perfectly chewy, unlike traditional cookies that can sometimes turn out too crisp.
4. Versatile – These bars can be dressed up for holidays or served casually for any occasion.
5. Perfect for Sharing – Cut into easy-to-serve squares, they’re perfect for parties, potlucks, or bringing to a friend’s house.

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Ingredients

For the Cookie Bars

• All-purpose flour
• Pistachio instant pudding mix
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Butter (softened)
• Sugar
• Large eggs
• Vanilla extract

For the Buttercream Frosting

• Unsalted butter
• Confectioners’ sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Milk

Variations

• Add Nuts: Stir in chopped pistachios or other nuts for extra crunch and texture.
• Colorful Frosting: Use food coloring to tint the buttercream frosting for a festive touch.
• Frosting Flavor: Add almond extract or a splash of coffee to the buttercream for a new flavor dimension.
• Mini Bars: Make smaller, bite-sized cookie bars by cutting them into smaller squares.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting for an extra indulgent twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, pistachio pudding mix, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 6: Bake

Spread the cookie dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bars cool completely in the pan.

Step 7: Make the Buttercream Frosting

In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter and confectioners’ sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the vanilla extract and 2 tablespoons of milk, mixing until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add an additional tablespoon of milk.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Spread the buttercream frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars. Cut into squares and serve.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Be sure the butter is softened to room temperature to make mixing easier.
• Let the cookie bars cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• If you don’t have pistachio instant pudding mix, you can try using vanilla pudding mix, but the flavor will be different.
• For a thicker frosting, reduce the milk slightly or add a little more powdered sugar to achieve your desired texture.
• If your bars are browning too quickly in the oven, cover them loosely with aluminum foil during the last 5–10 minutes of baking.

How to Serve

• Serve as an after-dinner treat with coffee or tea.
• These bars make an excellent snack or dessert for a potluck or family gathering.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert combination.
• Enjoy with a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness of the bars.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them fresher longer, store them in the fridge.

Freezing

You can freeze the un-frosted cookie bars for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, let them thaw at room temperature, then frost them fresh.

Reheating

To reheat the bars, simply microwave them for 10–15 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While butter provides the best flavor and texture, margarine can be substituted if necessary.

2. Do I need to use pistachio pudding mix?

Yes, the pistachio pudding mix is what gives the bars their signature flavor. Substituting with another flavor of pudding mix will change the taste.

3. Can I make these bars without frosting?

Yes, the cookie bars are delicious on their own if you prefer a simpler treat.

4. How do I know when the bars are done baking?

The bars should be lightly golden on the edges, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

5. Can I add chopped pistachios to the dough?

Absolutely! Adding chopped pistachios to the dough will enhance the flavor and give the bars some extra crunch.

6. What can I use instead of milk in the frosting?

You can use cream, half-and-half, or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk for the frosting.

7. How can I adjust the sweetness of the frosting?

If you find the frosting too sweet, add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor, or use less powdered sugar.

8. Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes, cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache would be delicious alternatives.

9. How do I keep the frosting from melting?

Ensure the cookie bars have cooled completely before frosting, and keep them in a cool place after frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

10. Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a larger pan. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars are a fun and easy twist on traditional sugar cookies, offering a nutty, rich flavor that’s complemented by creamy buttercream frosting. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, these bars are sure to impress with their soft, chewy texture and delightful pistachio flavor. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this is a dessert anyone can master. Try them today, and enjoy a delicious treat that’s perfect for sharing!

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