Description
These Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars are soft, chewy, and packed with a subtle pistachio flavor complemented by creamy white chocolate chips. Made with instant pistachio pudding mix for a moist texture, these bars are an irresistible dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup white chocolate chips
- ¾ cup chopped shelled pistachios
Optional Toppings
- Additional chopped pistachios or sea salt for topping
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which incorporates air and creates a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix until fully combined, ensuring a smooth batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, instant pistachio pudding mix, baking soda, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and flavor.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix just until combined to avoid overworking the dough which can toughen the bars.
- Fold in Chips and Pistachios: Gently fold in the white chocolate chips and chopped pistachios to evenly distribute them throughout the dough.
- Spread Dough in Pan: Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle additional chopped pistachios or a light sprinkle of sea salt on top if desired to enhance flavor and texture.
- Bake: Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the edges turn lightly golden and the center is just set. Avoid overbaking to maintain chewiness.
- Cool and Slice: Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing into 20 bars to ensure they hold together well.
Notes
- These bars have a subtle pistachio flavor and creamy texture from the pudding mix.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for longer preservation.
- Do not overbake to keep bars soft and chewy.
- Optional toppings of extra pistachios or sea salt add an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
