Pistachio Pudding Cookie Bars Recipe

Heavenly Pistachio Pudding Cookie Bars Recipe for Sweet Bliss

Soft, chewy cookies infused with vibrant pistachio pudding mix create a delightful twist on classic dessert bars.

The unexpected pistachio pudding cookie bars burst with nutty sweetness and tender texture.

Each bite promises a delectable surprise that melts in your mouth.

These bars blend creamy pistachio flavor with a rich, buttery base that lingers deliciously.

Green-hued and irresistibly soft, they stand out from ordinary cookie recipes.

Bakers of all skill levels can whip up this simple yet impressive treat in no time.

Serve these bars at your next gathering and watch them disappear in moments.

Step 1: Warm Up The Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 375°F, creating the perfect environment for your delightful treats to bake beautifully.

Step 2: Whip Creamy Base

Using an electric mixer, blend together soft butter, fresh eggs, and the magical pistachio pudding mix until the mixture becomes silky smooth and dreamy.

Step 3: Create Cookie Dough

Gradually incorporate the cookie mix into your creamy base, stirring until a wonderfully sticky dough emerges that’s ready to transform into delectable bars.

Step 4: Spread The Love

Grab a 10×15 inch baking sheet and generously grease it.

Carefully spread your prepared dough across the surface, ensuring an even layer that promises consistent baking.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and let the magic happen.

Bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for golden brown edges and a lightly bronzed top.

Once done, remove and allow the bars to cool completely before slicing into irresistible squares.

  • Choose instant pistachio pudding for consistent flavor and texture in the bars.
  • Reduce sugar content by using sugar-free pudding mix for a lighter dessert option.
  • Watch closely during last 2 minutes to prevent over-browning and maintain soft cookie texture.
  • Use light-colored metal baking sheet for even heat distribution and golden-brown edges.
  • Let bars cool completely on wire rack to prevent soggy bottom and ensure clean cutting lines.
  • Nutty Almond Delight: Replace pistachio pudding mix with almond pudding mix for a different nutty flavor profile.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular cookie mix with gluten-free sugar cookie mix to accommodate celiac or gluten-sensitive diets.
  • Chocolate Lover's Version: Substitute pistachio pudding with chocolate pudding mix and add chocolate chips for extra richness.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based butter substitute, egg replacer, and vegan sugar cookie mix to create a dairy-free and egg-free treat.
  • Creamy Dessert Plate: Serve these bars alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.
  • Nutty Garnish Twist: Sprinkle crushed pistachios on top of each bar to enhance the pudding's nutty flavor and add a delicious crunch.
  • Coffee Companion Pairing: Enjoy these sweet bars with a hot cup of espresso or cappuccino to balance the sugary richness and complement the pudding's subtle taste.
  • Afternoon Tea Treat: Cut into smaller bite-sized pieces and arrange on a decorative platter for an elegant dessert during afternoon tea or casual gatherings.
  • Store cooled cookie bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, keeping them fresh and moist.
  • Wrap individual bars tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for a make-ahead treat.
  • Keep bars at room temperature for 2-3 days in a sealed container, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
  • Place a piece of bread in the container to help maintain the bars' softness and prevent them from becoming too dry.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make the pudding mix unique?

The pistachio pudding mix adds a distinct nutty, sweet flavor and helps create a soft, moist texture in the cookie bars.

  • Are these bars gluten-free?

No, the recipe uses standard cookie mix which contains wheat flour, so it’s not suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

  • Can I use a different pudding flavor?

Yes, you can substitute pistachio pudding with vanilla, butterscotch, or chocolate pudding mix to create different flavor variations.

  • How do I know when the bars are perfectly baked?

Look for lightly browned edges and a slightly golden top. The bars should be set but still soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.

  • Whip Up Quickly: Minimal ingredients and simple steps make these bars a breeze to prepare, perfect for busy bakers wanting a fast dessert solution.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Unique pistachio pudding twist transforms classic sugar cookies into an exciting, unexpected dessert that delights both kids and adults.
  • Versatile Dessert Option: Suitable for potlucks, family gatherings, school events, or casual weekend treats, these bars offer a delightful homemade touch without complicated techniques.
  • Texture and Flavor Delight: Soft, chewy cookie bars with a subtle pistachio essence create a memorable taste experience that stands out from traditional sugar cookies.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter: Provides rich flavor and helps create a soft, tender texture in the cookie bars.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the structure of the bars.
  • Pistachio Pudding Mix: Adds distinct pistachio flavor and helps keep the bars moist.
Dry Ingredients:
  • Sugar Cookie Mix: Serves as the base for the cookie bars and provides sweetness.
  • Flour (from Cookie Mix): Gives structure and helps create the desired texture of the bars.
Baking Essentials:
  • Cooking Spray or Butter: Ensures the bars do not stick to the baking sheet and allows for easy removal.
Print
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Pistachio Pudding Cookie Bars Recipe

Pistachio Pudding Cookie Bars Recipe


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4.5 from 24 reviews

  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 16 1x

Description

Creamy pistachio pudding cookie bars deliver a delightful twist on classic dessert bars. Sweet nutty layers meld perfectly, promising a rich indulgence that will surprise and satisfy your taste buds with each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 17.5 ounces (496 grams) Betty Crocker sugar cookie mix
  • 3.4 ounces (96 grams) pistachio instant pudding mix

Wet Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) butter, softened

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F, ensuring the rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
  2. Using an electric mixer, thoroughly combine softened butter, eggs, and pistachio pudding mix until the mixture becomes uniformly smooth and creamy.
  3. Gradually incorporate the cookie mix into the wet ingredients, mixing until a cohesive and slightly sticky dough develops.
  4. Grease a 10×15 inch baking sheet, then carefully spread the prepared dough across the surface, creating an even layer with gentle, consistent pressure.
  5. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, watching for golden-brown edges and a lightly bronzed top surface.
  6. Remove from the oven and allow the cookie bars to cool completely at room temperature before cutting into desired shapes and serving.

Notes

  • Swap out regular pudding mix for sugar-free or plant-based alternatives to accommodate dietary restrictions or lower sugar intake.
  • Add a sprinkle of crushed pistachios on top before baking for extra crunch and visual appeal.
  • Ensure butter is at room temperature for smoother mixing and better dough consistency.
  • Line baking sheet with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner cutting of bars.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 16
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 7 g
  • Sodium: 120 mg
  • Fat: 6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg
Lena Martinez

Lena Martinez

Contributing Writer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southwestern and Latin American cuisines, Vegetarian and plant-based recipe development, Culinary education and community outreach ​

Education

Santa Fe Community College, Santa Fe, NM
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southwestern cuisine and sustainable cooking practices


Lena grew up surrounded by the colors, spices, and traditions of the Southwest – flavors that sparked her love for bold, honest cooking. After earning her Culinary Arts certificate at Santa Fe Community College, she made it her mission to teach home cooks how to create flavorful, plant-powered meals without the fuss.
Her recipes are packed with vibrant ingredients, simple steps, and the kind of heart that turns a regular meal into something you’ll want to share. Outside the kitchen, Lena spends her time wandering farmers’ markets, trading family recipes, and helping young chefs find their voice through food.

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