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These pistachio cookie bars started as a shortcut recipe that turned into something magical. Every time I pull them from the oven the kitchen fills with this nutty sweet aroma. Their soft chewy texture and pretty green color make them disappear fast at any gathering.
Simple Yet Special
I love how these bars come together in minutes but taste completely homemade. The pistachio pudding mix is my secret weapon it gives them this gorgeous color and rich nutty flavor without any fuss.
Kitchen Essentials
- Butter: Half cup softened creates that perfect tender crumb.
- Eggs: Two large ones keep everything moist and tender.
- Pistachio Pudding: One package for that dreamy flavor and color.
- Sugar Cookie Mix: One package makes this recipe foolproof.
Baking Time
- Start The Mix
- Beat your butter eggs and pudding mix until smooth and creamy.
- Cookie Mix Magic
- Stir in the cookie mix just until you get a soft sticky dough.
- Pan Prep
- Spread it all in your greased baking pan. I use my fingers to get it even.
- Into The Oven
- Bake at 350 watching for those slightly golden edges.
- The Wait
- Let them cool completely before cutting into squares.
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My Best Tips
Watch these like a hawk in the oven they can go from perfect to overdone quick. Line your pan with parchment it makes lifting them out so easy. Always let them cool completely trust me on this one.
Keep Them Fresh
These stay soft for days in an airtight container on the counter. Sometimes I make a double batch and freeze some they thaw beautifully when unexpected company drops by.
Dress Them Up
A drizzle of white chocolate takes these over the top. Sometimes I sprinkle crushed pistachios on top while they're still warm. Green sprinkles make them extra festive for holidays.
Perfect For Everything
The pretty green color makes these perfect for Christmas or St Patrick's Day. I bring them to potlucks bake sales and they're always the first thing gone. My book club asks for them every month.
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Mix It Up
Sometimes I swap in different pudding flavors just for fun. White chocolate chips or dried cranberries mixed into the dough are lovely too. The recipe is so forgiving you can really play around.
Serve Them Right
These bars are heavenly with afternoon coffee or tea. My husband loves them with cold milk. For dessert try them slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream pure bliss.
Fun With Kids
Little helpers love pressing the dough into the pan and adding sprinkles. The green color gets them so excited. Plus its nearly impossible to mess these up perfect for building kitchen confidence.
The Magic Mix
That little box of pistachio pudding does all the heavy lifting here. It adds moisture flavor and the prettiest green color. Plus it keeps the bars soft for days if they last that long.
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New Twists
Sometimes I brown the butter first for a nutty caramel note. A cream cheese frosting on top makes them extra special. Dark chocolate chips create this amazing pistachio chocolate combo.
Quick Clean Up
One bowl one pan thats all you need. I line my pan with parchment so cleanup is even easier. These bars slide right out looking picture perfect every time.
Everyone's Favorite
These bars have become my signature bring along treat. Friends family even my picky mother in law asks for the recipe. They're that perfect combination of easy to make impossible to resist.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different size pan?
- The recipe is designed for a 10x15 inch pan. Using a different size will affect thickness and baking time.
- → How do I know when they're done?
- The edges should be brown and the top just starting to brown, about 10-12 minutes.
- → Can I use different cookie mix brands?
- Yes, any sugar cookie mix of similar size will work, though texture may vary slightly.
- → How should I store these?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature once completely cooled.