Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

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These Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are soft, buttery and topped with a luscious pistachio pudding frosting that’s impossible to resist. With their gorgeous green color and sprinkle of chopped pistachios on top, they make a stunning treat for holidays, parties, or just a sweet pick-me-up on an ordinary day. Every bite is a perfect balance of chewy sugar cookie and creamy pistachio goodness.

You’ll love how easy they are to whip up, using a handful of pantry staples and a box of instant pistachio pudding mix. The sugar cookie base is thick and tender, while the frosting is silky with a delicate nutty flavor that feels both nostalgic and sophisticated. These bars are sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

They’re easy enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for a special occasion. The recipe delivers consistent results and holds up beautifully at room temperature, making it great for sharing at potlucks and bake sales. Plus, the subtle pistachio flavor pairs beautifully with the buttery sweetness of the cookie base, creating an irresistible bite every time.

What Kind of Pistachios Should I Use?

For this recipe, roasted and salted pistachios work best as a topping, providing a nice crunch and a pop of saltiness that balances the sweetness. If you prefer, you can also use unsalted pistachios or even leave them out if you’d rather keep the bars smooth and simple. Whatever you choose, the pudding frosting itself already brings that signature pistachio flavor everyone loves.

Ingredients for the Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

Butter: Essential for creating a rich, soft and buttery cookie base that melts in your mouth.

Sugar: Brings sweetness and helps create the classic sugar cookie texture.

Egg: Adds moisture and structure to the cookie dough.

Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances the sweetness of both the cookie and frosting.

All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing structure and tenderness.

Baking powder: Gives just the right lift to keep the bars light and soft.

Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances the pistachio flavor.

Instant pistachio pudding mix: The star ingredient for the frosting, adding creaminess and that distinct pistachio taste.

Milk: Helps achieve a silky smooth frosting consistency.

Powdered sugar: Creates a light, fluffy frosting that spreads beautifully.

Chopped pistachios: A crunchy, salty garnish that adds texture and a beautiful finish.

How To Make the Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

Step 1: Make the Cookie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Bake the Cookie Base

Press the dough evenly into a parchment-lined baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let it cool completely.

Step 4: Prepare the Pistachio Frosting

In a medium bowl, whisk together instant pistachio pudding mix and milk until thickened. Beat in softened butter and gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Frost and Garnish

Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie base. Sprinkle generously with chopped pistachios. Cut into squares and serve!

Serving and Storing Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars

These Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are perfect for serving at parties, picnics, or as a delightful dessert at family dinners. This recipe yields about 16 generous squares, making it ideal for sharing. They hold up well at room temperature for a day or two, but for longer freshness, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to a month and thaw when ready to enjoy.

What to Serve With Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars?

Fresh Berries

A bowl of fresh strawberries, raspberries or blueberries adds a refreshing fruity contrast.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream alongside a bar makes an indulgent plated dessert.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the soft cookie texture.

Coffee or Espresso

The nutty pistachio flavor pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or a shot of espresso.

Hot Chocolate

On chilly evenings, serve these bars with mugs of rich, steamy hot chocolate for a cozy treat.

Lemon Tea

A bright lemon tea balances the sweetness with a hint of citrus.

Pistachio Latte

Double up on the pistachio flavor with a warm pistachio-flavored latte on the side.

Want More Dessert Bar Ideas?

If you enjoyed these Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars, you might love trying these other dessert favorites:

• Ooey Gooey Bars for a rich, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars if you’re craving a creative way to use up sweets.
• Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler for a warm and fruity classic.
• Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons with a tropical touch.
• Best Cheesecake Deviled Strawberries for an elegant, bite-sized treat.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist of your own? Or stick to the classic? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own — and don’t hesitate to ask questions, we’re here to bake smarter together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more sweet ideas on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dessert!

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