Buttery Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars

Introduction

The holiday season is a time for indulgence, celebration, and, of course, delicious treats. One recipe that has become a staple in our household is the Buttery Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars. I remember the first time I made these bars; the aroma of butter and pistachio filled the kitchen, drawing my family in like moths to a flame. As soon as they were out of the oven and cooled, we couldn’t resist diving in. The soft, chewy texture combined with the rich flavor of pistachio was an instant hit. My kids loved them so much that they asked for a second batch almost immediately! These bars have quickly become a favorite for family gatherings and holiday parties, and I can’t wait to share this delightful recipe with you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these cookie bars are easy to whip up.
• Deliciously Unique Flavor: The addition of pistachio pudding mix gives these bars a delightful nutty flavor and a beautiful green hue.
• No Rolling Required: Unlike traditional cookies, there’s no need to roll out dough or use cookie cutters—just press the dough into a pan and bake!
• Perfect for Sharing: These bars are great for potlucks, parties, or simply enjoying at home with family.
• Customizable: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
• 2 large eggs 🥚
• 3.4 oz pistachio instant pudding mix 💚
• 1 package sugar cookie mix 🍬

Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) 🔥.

1. Cream the Mixture:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, eggs, and pistachio pudding mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy 🍴.

1. Combine with Sugar Cookie Mix:

• Gradually mix in the sugar cookie mix until a sticky dough forms 🍥.

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:

• Grease a 10 x 15-inch baking sheet with cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal 🧽.

1. Spread the Dough:

• Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan, ensuring it reaches all edges.

1. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven until the edges are lightly golden, about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking 🌟.

1. Cool and Slice:

• Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing them into squares or rectangles.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 12 bars
• Calories per Serving: About 150 calories

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Drizzle with melted chocolate or white chocolate for added sweetness.
• Garnish with crushed pistachios on top for an extra crunch.
• Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing.
2. Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bars soft and chewy.
3. Experiment with Flavors: Consider adding almond extract for an extra layer of flavor that complements the pistachios beautifully.
4. Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
5. Freeze for Later: These bars freeze well! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to two months.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough instead of mix?

• Yes! You can substitute homemade sugar cookie dough if you prefer.

1. What can I use instead of pistachio pudding mix?

• You can try using vanilla pudding mix if you want a similar texture without the pistachio flavor.

1. How do I know when they are done baking?

• The edges should be lightly golden brown; a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

1. Can I add chocolate chips?

• Absolutely! Fold in some chocolate chips before spreading the dough into the pan.

1. How do I store leftovers?

• Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

1. Can these bars be frozen?

• Yes! Wrap them tightly and freeze before slicing or after slicing into individual bars.

1. What’s the best way to cut these bars?

• Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean cuts; wipe it clean between cuts if necessary.

1. Can I use salted butter?

• Yes, but you may want to reduce any added salt in your recipe if using salted butter.

1. What’s the texture supposed to be like?

• They should be soft and chewy with a slightly dense texture due to the pudding mix.

1. Can I make these gluten-free?
   • Use gluten-free sugar cookie mix as a substitute to make these bars gluten-free.

Conclusion

Buttery Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars are not only easy to make but also deliver on flavor and texture that will delight your taste buds. The combination of buttery goodness and nutty pistachio creates a treat that is perfect for any occasion—be it holiday gatherings, birthdays, or just an afternoon snack at home. With their vibrant color and delicious taste, these bars are sure to impress family and friends alike. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy these delightful cookie bars that will become a favorite in your household!

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