Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars – Soft, Chewy, and Packed with Flavor
Pistachio pudding sugar cookie bars are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, offering a soft, chewy texture with a burst of nutty pistachio flavor. These bars are incredibly easy to make and come together quickly with simple pantry ingredients. The addition of instant pistachio pudding mix not only gives the bars their signature pale green color but also enhances the flavor and texture, making them extra soft and moist. Topped with a creamy frosting and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, these bars are perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving a sweet treat.
If you love the flavor of pistachio and the soft, buttery goodness of sugar cookies, you’ll fall in love with these cookie bars. Unlike traditional sugar cookies that require rolling and cutting, these bars are baked in a single pan and cut into squares, making them much easier to prepare. The pistachio pudding mix not only provides flavor but also adds moisture and softness to the bars, ensuring they stay fresh for days.
Pistachio pudding sugar cookie bars have a tender crumb and a balanced sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy frosting. The sprinkle of chopped pistachios on top adds a delightful crunch and reinforces the pistachio flavor. Whether you’re making these for St. Patrick’s Day, a holiday gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, these bars are sure to impress.
Why Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars Are So Popular
Pistachio pudding sugar cookie bars are a fun and easy variation on sugar cookies. The addition of pistachio pudding mix gives them a distinct flavor and a soft, chewy texture that’s hard to resist. Unlike regular sugar cookies, which can be time-consuming to roll and cut, these bars are simply spread into a baking pan and cut into squares after baking. The result is a thick, chewy cookie with a tender crumb and a rich pistachio flavor.
The secret ingredient that makes these bars so soft and flavorful is the pistachio pudding mix. Pudding mix contains modified starches and flavoring agents that add moisture and structure to the dough, creating a soft and chewy texture that stays fresh for days. The pistachio flavor in the pudding mix is subtle yet distinct, giving these bars a unique and delicious taste.
The frosting on top adds a layer of creamy sweetness that complements the nutty pistachio flavor perfectly. A sprinkle of chopped pistachios on top not only adds texture but also enhances the flavor, making each bite a perfect balance of soft, chewy, and crunchy. These bars are easy to make, store well, and are guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients for Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars
To make these soft and chewy cookie bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cookie Bars:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and creates a tender crumb.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bars and helps with browning.
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed – Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor.
- 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix – Provides flavor, moisture, and a soft texture.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bars rise and creates a light texture.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
For the Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a creamy base for the frosting.
- 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting and creates a smooth texture.
- 2 tablespoons milk – Helps thin out the frosting to a spreadable consistency.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor.
- A few drops of green food coloring (optional) – Enhances the green color of the frosting.
- ½ cup chopped pistachios – Adds texture and reinforces the pistachio flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowls – For mixing the dough and frosting.
- Electric Mixer – Makes creaming the butter and sugar easier.
- 9×13-Inch Baking Pan – For baking the bars.
- Parchment Paper – Makes it easy to lift the bars from the pan.
- Spatula – For spreading the dough and frosting evenly.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with nonstick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
Add the pistachio pudding mix and mix until fully incorporated. The dough will turn a light green color.
Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth and creamy.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Step 2: Bake the Cookie Bars
Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan using a spatula.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove from the oven and let the bars cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Step 3: Prepare the Frosting
While the bars are cooling, make the frosting. In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy and smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Add the milk and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. If using green food coloring, add a few drops and mix until the color is even.
Step 4: Frost and Decorate
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars using a spatula.
Sprinkle the chopped pistachios evenly over the frosting.
Cut into squares and serve.
Step 5: Store and Enjoy
Store the bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Why This Recipe Works
- Soft and Chewy Texture: The pistachio pudding mix keeps the bars soft and moist for days.
- Balanced Sweetness: The combination of brown sugar and granulated sugar creates a perfect level of sweetness.
- Rich Pistachio Flavor: The pudding mix and chopped pistachios enhance the nutty flavor.
- Easy to Make: No need to roll and cut—just press into a pan and bake.
Tips for Success
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Softened butter and room-temperature eggs help the dough mix evenly.
- Don’t Overbake: The bars will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so take them out when they’re just set.
- Chill Before Cutting: Chilling the bars makes them easier to cut into clean squares.
Serving Suggestions
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or pistachio ice cream pairs beautifully with these bars.
- With Coffee: The nutty flavor of the bars complements the rich flavor of coffee.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light contrast to the rich bars.
Variations and Substitutions
- Chocolate Chips: Add chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolate-pistachio combo.
- Almond Extract: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a deeper nutty flavor.
- White Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted white chocolate over the frosting for a sweet finish.
Final Thoughts
Pistachio pudding sugar cookie bars are a delicious and easy dessert that combines the soft, chewy texture of sugar cookies with the rich, nutty flavor of pistachio. The pudding mix keeps the bars moist and flavorful, while the frosting adds a creamy sweetness that balances the overall taste. Whether you’re making these for a holiday gathering or a sweet afternoon treat, these bars are sure to be a hit! Try this recipe today and enjoy the irresistible flavor of pistachio in every bite.