Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are a quick and delightful treat, combining the rich flavor of pistachio pudding with the softness of sugar cookie dough. These chewy bars are perfect for anyone who loves a simple yet indulgent dessert that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These pistachio cookie bars are incredibly easy to make, and they pack a deliciously rich, nutty flavor from the pistachio pudding mix. The combination of butter, eggs, and sugar cookie dough gives the bars a chewy texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack or need a dessert to share at a gathering, these bars will be the hit of the occasion. Plus, they’re made with just a few ingredients, making them a go-to recipe for busy days.
Ingredients
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1/2 cup butter, softened
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2 large eggs
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3.4 oz pistachio instant pudding mix
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17.5 oz Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, and pistachio pudding mix. Use an electric mixer to blend the ingredients until smooth.
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Add the sugar cookie mix to the bowl. Use the electric mixer to combine until a sticky dough forms.
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Transfer the cookie dough onto a greased 10 x 15-inch baking sheet. Press the dough evenly across the entire pan.
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Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are browned and the top begins to lightly brown.
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Remove the cookie bars from the oven and allow them to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 12 minutes
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Total Time: 22 minutes
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Yield: 24 servings (24 squares)
Variations
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Add-ins: You can mix in some chopped pistachios, white chocolate chips, or mini chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
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Glaze: Drizzle a light glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bars for a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
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Different Pudding Flavors: Switch up the flavor of the pudding mix to experiment with other flavors like vanilla or butterscotch for a twist on the classic.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store the cookie bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, they can be refrigerated for up to a week.
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Freezing: These cookie bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave them at room temperature for a few hours.
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Reheating: Reheat the bars in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes if you prefer a warm, soft texture.
FAQs
How do I make sure my pistachio cookie bars are chewy?
To ensure the bars are chewy, avoid overbaking them. Once the edges are lightly browned and the top is just beginning to brown, remove them from the oven. Overbaking will make them dry instead of soft and chewy.
Can I use a different brand of sugar cookie mix?
Yes, you can use any brand of sugar cookie mix you prefer. Just make sure it’s around 17.5 oz for the right consistency.
What should I do if my dough is too thick?
If the dough is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. The dough should be soft but not too runny.
Can I use a hand mixer instead of an electric one?
Yes, a hand mixer will work just fine for blending the ingredients, though it may take a bit more effort than using an electric mixer.
Can I make these bars gluten-free?
To make gluten-free pistachio cookie bars, simply substitute the regular sugar cookie mix with a gluten-free sugar cookie mix. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Is there a way to make these bars more cake-like?
For a more cake-like texture, try adding an additional egg or reducing the baking time slightly to keep them fluffier.
Can I freeze these cookie bars?
Yes! These bars freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
How can I make these bars more festive for a special occasion?
You can top these bars with sprinkles or a glaze made of powdered sugar to make them look more festive. Green and white sprinkles would complement the pistachio flavor perfectly.
How long will these cookie bars last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, the bars will stay fresh for about 4-5 days at room temperature, or up to a week in the fridge.
Can I use sugar cookie dough from scratch?
Yes, you can substitute homemade sugar cookie dough for the pre-packaged mix if you prefer to make it from scratch. The ratios of ingredients may vary, so ensure the dough is similar in texture to the packaged mix.
Conclusion
These Easy Pistachio Cookie Bars are a quick, simple, and delicious dessert that’s sure to please any crowd. With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, you can create a flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just in the mood for something sweet, these chewy bars are sure to be a hit!
Print
Easy Pistachio Cookie Bars
- Total Time: 22 Minutes
- Yield: 24 Servings (24 squares)
Ingredients
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 large eggs
3.4 oz pistachio instant pudding mix
17.5 oz Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened butter, eggs, and pistachio pudding mix. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth.
Add the sugar cookie mix and continue mixing with the electric mixer until a sticky dough forms.
Transfer the dough to a greased 10 x 15-inch baking sheet, spreading it evenly across the pan.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are browned and the top begins to lightly brown.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
Ensure that the dough is spread evenly across the pan for uniform baking.
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped pistachios on top before baking.
These bars are best served after cooling completely for a firmer texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 Minutes
- Category: Dessert
