Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

There’s something undeniably comforting about a dessert that’s both familiar and unexpected. These Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are exactly that—a perfect blend of buttery sugar cookie base and the rich, nutty flavor of pistachio pudding. The result is a dessert that’s soft, chewy, and packed with flavor in every bite.

I first made these bars for a potluck, and they were an instant hit. The vibrant green hue from the pistachio pudding caught everyone’s eye, and the flavor kept them coming back for more. Since then, they’ve become my go-to dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday gathering, a bake sale, or just a sweet treat to enjoy with coffee, these bars never disappoint.

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy bakery. The pistachio pudding adds a unique twist to the classic sugar cookie, making it a dessert that’s both nostalgic and exciting. So, let’s get baking!

These Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are a unique and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. They feature a buttery sugar cookie base infused with the rich, nutty flavor of pistachio pudding.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and versatility. The pistachio pudding adds a unique twist to the classic sugar cookie, creating a dessert that’s both familiar and exciting. Plus, it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or just a sweet treat, these bars are a guaranteed hit. They’re soft, chewy, and packed with flavor. Once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Exciting Story

Last Christmas, I decided to make these Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars for our family cookie exchange. I was a little nervous—after all, my family is known for their high standards when it comes to desserts. But as soon as the bars came out of the oven, the aroma of buttery sugar cookies and pistachio filled the kitchen.

My cousin, who’s a self-proclaimed cookie connoisseur, took one bite and said, “These are the best bars I’ve ever had!” By the end of the night, the entire tray was gone, and I had multiple requests for the recipe. Now, they’re a must-have at every family gathering.

Why These Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

This recipe is a game-changer for dessert lovers. Here’s why:

• Unique Flavor: The pistachio pudding adds a rich, nutty twist to the classic sugar cookie.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.
• Soft and Chewy: The perfect texture for a dessert bar.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for holidays, potlucks, or just a sweet treat.

What You Need For Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup white chocolate chips (optional)
• ½ cup chopped pistachios (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
3. Add the Pudding Mix: Gradually mix in the pistachio pudding mix until well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the white chocolate chips if using.
5. Press into the Pan: Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle chopped pistachios on top if desired.
6. Bake the Bars: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Tips For Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

• Don’t overmix the dough to ensure tender bars.
• Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
• For extra flavor, toast the chopped pistachios before sprinkling them on top.

Substitutions and Variations

• Pudding Flavor: Swap pistachio pudding for vanilla or cheesecake flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Use dark chocolate or milk chocolate chips instead of white chocolate.
• Nuts: Substitute pistachios with almonds or walnuts.
• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the bars.

Make a Healthier Version

• Use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.
• Substitute half the butter with unsweetened applesauce.
• Use a sugar-free pudding mix.

Closing in Todd Wilbur’s Style

And there you have it—Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars that are as easy to make as they are delicious! Don’t forget to let us know how your bars turn out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more sweet inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
   Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
2. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
3. Can I use a different pudding flavor?
   Yes, vanilla or cheesecake pudding works well.
4. What if I don’t have white chocolate chips?
   Use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or omit them entirely.
5. Can I make this gluten-free?
   Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend.
6. How do I prevent the bars from being too dry?
   Don’t overbake them, and store them in an airtight container.
7. Can I freeze these bars?
   Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
8. What’s the best way to cut the bars?
   Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
9. Can I add other mix-ins?
   Yes, try adding dried fruit or coconut flakes.
10. How do I make these bars vegan?
    Use vegan butter, an egg substitute, and dairy-free chocolate chips.
11. Can I use homemade pudding?
    Yes, but instant pudding mix works best for texture.
12. How do I make the bars more festive?
    Add food coloring or sprinkles to the dough before baking.