Pistachio Cream Bars

Pistachio Cream Bars are a show-stopping dessert that combines a buttery shortbread crust with a luscious, creamy pistachio filling. With a texture that’s somewhere between pudding and cheesecake, these vibrant green bars are perfect for parties, potlucks, or any special occasion. Easy to make ahead of time, they offer a unique, nutty flavor that will delight guests of all ages.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 1 cup salted butter, softened
• 1 package (8 oz / 250 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 box Pistachio instant pudding mix (4-serving size)
• ¾ cup milk
• ¼ cup pistachios, roughly chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 300ºF (150ºC).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
3. Beat in the softened butter on medium speed with an electric mixer until fully blended.
4. Press the dough evenly into a 13×9-inch baking pan to form the crust.
5. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool.
6. In another large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar on medium speed until smooth.
7. Add the milk and pistachio pudding mix, continuing to beat until fully combined.
8. Spread the pistachio filling evenly over the cooled crust.
9. Sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top.
10. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until set.
11. Slice into 24–36 bars depending on the desired portion size and serve chilled.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve these bars chilled for the best texture and flavor.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Variations

1. Chocolate Pistachio Bars – Add ½ cup chocolate chips to the crust or drizzle melted chocolate on top.
2. Lemon Pistachio Bars – Mix 1 teaspoon lemon zest into the cream cheese filling.
3. White Chocolate Pistachio Bars – Fold ½ cup white chocolate chunks into the filling.
4. Raspberry Pistachio Bars – Add fresh or frozen raspberries on top before chilling.
5. Almond Pistachio Bars – Sprinkle slivered almonds along with the pistachios.
6. Caramel Pistachio Bars – Drizzle caramel sauce over the bars before serving.
7. Coconut Pistachio Bars – Add ½ cup shredded coconut to the filling.
8. Espresso Pistachio Bars – Mix 1 teaspoon instant coffee granules into the filling for a coffee twist.
9. Maple Pistachio Bars – Replace ¼ cup of powdered sugar with maple sugar.
10. Mint Pistachio Bars – Add ½ teaspoon peppermint extract to the cream cheese mixture.
11. Orange Pistachio Bars – Mix in 1 teaspoon orange zest for a citrusy kick.
12. Chocolate Swirl Pistachio Bars – Drop spoonfuls of chocolate ganache on top and swirl lightly.
13. Honey Pistachio Bars – Drizzle honey over the top before chilling.
14. Vanilla Bean Pistachio Bars – Use 1 teaspoon real vanilla bean paste instead of extract.
15. Mixed Nut Pistachio Bars – Top with a combination of pistachios, walnuts, and pecans.

FAQs

1. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
   • Yes, they can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge.
2. Can I use light or low-fat cream cheese?
   • Yes, but the texture may be slightly less creamy.
3. Can I use homemade pistachio pudding instead of instant?
   • Absolutely, just ensure it’s thick enough to spread over the crust.
4. How long do these bars last in the fridge?
   • Up to 5 days in an airtight container.
5. Can I freeze these bars?
   • Yes, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
6. Can I substitute other nuts for pistachios?
   • Yes, almonds, walnuts, or pecans work well.
7. Can I make these gluten-free?
   • Yes, use gluten-free flour for the crust.
8. Can I make mini versions for a party tray?
   • Yes, simply cut into bite-sized squares for easy serving.
9. Can I use salted or unsalted butter?
   • Either works, but adjust additional salt accordingly.
10. Can I add fruit to the filling?

• Yes, small pieces of strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries work nicely.

Pistachio Cream Bars are a delightful combination of rich creaminess, nutty crunch, and buttery shortbread. Their vibrant color and irresistible flavor make them perfect for entertaining or enjoying as a special treat at home. With easy prep, make-ahead convenience, and endless variations, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.

Print