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Pistachio Cookie Bars Close-up of pistachio cookie bars cut into squares on a white plate, soft green interior with creamy white frosting on top, sprinkled chopped pistachios, natural window light, shallow depth of field, elegant homemade dessert photography, cozy and minimal styling.

Pistachio Cookie Bars

These soft pistachio cookie bars are buttery, nostalgic, and finished with a creamy frosting that feels like a celebration in every bite.
5 from 1 vote
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Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Keyword: cookie bars, frosted bars, pistachio bars, pistachio dessert
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Cooling Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 26 bars
Calories: 295kcal
Cost: $18

Ingredients

  • 1.05 cups unsalted butter softened to room temperature for easy creaming
  • 2.1 boxes instant pistachio pudding mix 3.4-ounce boxes for strong pistachio flavor
  • 0.55 cup granulated sugar adds sweetness and structure
  • 2 large eggs room temperature for smoother mixing
  • 1.05 teaspoons vanilla extract enhances overall sweetness
  • 0.55 teaspoon almond extract adds nutty depth
  • 2.2 cups all-purpose flour spooned and leveled for accuracy
  • 1.05 teaspoons baking powder for gentle lift
  • 0.3 teaspoon fine salt balances sweetness
  • 4.4 ounces cream cheese softened fully for smooth frosting
  • 0.3 cup unsalted butter softened to blend easily
  • 2.2 cups powdered sugar sifted to prevent lumps
  • 0.55 teaspoon vanilla extract adds warmth to frosting
  • 0.3 teaspoon almond extract reinforces pistachio notes
  • 1 tablespoon milk only if needed for consistency
  • 0.35 cup chopped pistachios or sprinkles optional garnish for texture and color

Instructions

  • Heat the oven to 350°F and coat a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray or line it with parchment.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter with the pistachio pudding mix and sugar until smooth, then mix in the eggs, vanilla, and almond extract until light and airy.
  • Add the flour, baking powder, and salt, mixing just until no dry streaks remain, then spread the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
    Overhead shot of raw pistachio cookie dough placed in a glass baking dish, chunky uneven texture, vibrant pistachio-green color, neutral stone countertop, natural light, authentic homemade baking preparation photography.
  • Bake until the edges turn lightly golden and the center is set, then remove and allow the bars to cool completely.
    Top-down view of baked pistachio cookie base in a glass baking dish, light green color with soft pillowy texture, slightly golden edges, minimalistic background, realistic baking process photo, natural daylight.
  • In a separate bowl, blend the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and almond extract until fluffy, thinning with milk only if needed, then frost the cooled bars and sprinkle with toppings before slicing.
    Overhead shot of pistachio cookie bars in a clear glass baking dish, smooth white frosting spread evenly with visible spatula swirls, soft green base underneath, clean neutral background, bright natural lighting, modern baking photography style.

Notes

These bars are perfect for sharing, especially when you want something playful yet comforting. The pistachio flavor brings a soft nostalgia, while the creamy topping makes them feel extra special. Chill slightly before slicing for the cleanest cuts.

Nutrition

Serving: 85g | Calories: 295kcal (15%) | Carbohydrates: 34g (11%) | Protein: 4g (8%) | Fat: 16g (25%) | Saturated Fat: 9g (56%) | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.5g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 55mg (18%) | Sodium: 180mg (8%) | Potassium: 90mg (3%) | Fiber: 0.8g (3%) | Sugar: 22g (24%) | Vitamin A: 450IU (9%) | Calcium: 40mg (4%) | Iron: 1mg (6%)
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