Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients:
For the cookie bars:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package 3.4 oz instant pistachio pudding mix
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
For the frosting:
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk optional, for thinning
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons crushed pistachios for garnish
Directions:
Make the cookie bars: Preheat the oven to 350F 175C. Line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Mix in the pistachio pudding mix until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool completely in the pan.
Make the frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Add vanilla extract and milk if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Spread the frosting over the cooled cookie bars and sprinkle with crushed pistachios.
Slice into bars and serve.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal per bar Servings: 16 bars
Tips:
Chill the bars for 30 minutes after frosting for cleaner slicing.
Add a drop of green food coloring to the frosting for extra pistachio flair.