Description

These pistachio sugar cookie bars with cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. With soft and chewy cookie bars made from pistachio pudding mix and topped with a creamy, tangy frosting, these bars offer the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup pistachio pudding mix (not the instant type)

1/4 cup unsalted pistachios, finely chopped (optional)

8 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)

2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Pinch of salt (for frosting)

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the egg and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.
Stir in the pistachio pudding mix until evenly incorporated.
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in chopped pistachios if using.
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
While the bars are cooling, prepare the frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Continue beating until fluffy and smooth.
Once the bars have cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top.
Slice into squares and enjoy!

Notes

Add chopped pistachios to the dough for extra texture and flavor.

For a fun variation, use different pudding mixes such as vanilla or chocolate.

Swapping cream cheese frosting for buttercream frosting or melted chocolate is also an option.

These bars can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

If freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 300
Sugar: 24g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg