Description
A vibrant, flavorful treat utilizing instant pistachio pudding mix for a unique ‘melt-in-your-mouth’ softness and a beautiful green hue. Finished with velvety cream cheese frosting and a hint of almond, these bars offer a sophisticated nutty profile perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
The Pistachio Base
- 2 (3.4-oz) boxes instant pistachio pudding mix
- 2 cups flour, 1 cup softened butter
- 1/2 cup sugar, 2 eggs, 1 tsp vanilla
- 0.5 tsp almond extract, 1 tsp baking powder, 0.25 tsp salt
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 4 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar, 0.5 tsp vanilla, 0.25 tsp almond extract
- Optional: 1 tbsp milk, chopped pistachios
Instructions
Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 pan.
Cream: Beat 1 cup butter, sugar, and dry pudding mix until smooth.
Emulsify: Mix in eggs, vanilla, and almond extract until fluffy.
Combine: Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt. Mix until just combined.
Bake: Press dough into pan. Bake for 20–25 mins until edges are golden. Cool completely.
Frost: Whip cream cheese and butter. Add sugar and extracts; whip until fluffy. Spread over cooled bars.
Notes
Instant Only: Do not use ‘Cook and Serve’ mix; its chemical structure won’t provide the same chewy result.
The ‘Plastic Wrap’ Trick: Use plastic wrap to press the sticky dough into the pan for an even layer.
Almond Synergy: Almond extract acts as a ‘flavor bridge,’ enhancing the subtle pistachio notes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Cookie Bars
- Method: Press-and-Bake
- Cuisine: American Pudding Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Bar
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 145
- Fat: 11
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 4
- Trans Fat: 0.3
- Carbohydrates: 26
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 2
- Cholesterol: 45
Keywords: pistachio cookie bars, pistachio pudding bars, green dessert recipes, cream cheese frosted bars, st patricks day desserts