This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we trust.

Craving a sweet treat that’s both comforting and unique? These Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars are the answer! A buttery cookie base topped with a creamy pistachio filling and a crumbly cookie topping make these bars simply irresistible. Perfect for potlucks, bake sales, or a special treat for yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars

These Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars are sure to become a new favorite. Here’s why:

Easy to make: No complicated steps or fancy equipment required.
Delicious flavor combination: The nutty pistachios complement the sweet cookie base perfectly.
Perfectly portable: These bars are easy to pack and take on the go.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone will love these unique and tasty cookie bars.
Beautiful presentation: The green pistachios add a pop of color to your dessert table.
Great for any occasion: From casual gatherings to holiday celebrations, these bars are a hit!

The rich, nutty aroma fills your kitchen as these bars bake, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Simple enough for any baker!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars:

Cookie Base Ingredients:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (113g)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
1/4 cup packed light brown sugar (50g)
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (180g)
1/2 teaspoon baking soda (2.5ml)
1/4 teaspoon salt (1.25ml)

Pistachio Filling Ingredients:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened (226g)
1/4 cup granulated sugar (50g)
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (2.5ml)
1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped (100g). Toast lightly for a more intense flavor.

For the best results, use high-quality ingredients. Look for vibrant green pistachios, either buy shelled pistachios or buy them with shell.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Cozy Apple Kringle with Vanilla Glaze – A delightful pastry that complements the nuttiness of pistachios with the warmth of apple and vanilla.

Essential Equipment List

Make sure you have these essential tools before you begin:

9×13 inch baking pan: Essential for creating the perfect bars.
Mixing bowls: Different sizes for the cookie base and pistachio filling.
Electric mixer: Makes creaming the butter and sugar much easier.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 12-16 bars
Difficulty: Easy

This recipe is easy to double for larger gatherings!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple instructions to bake perfect Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and lightly flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents the bars from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Base

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Ensure the egg is fully incorporated for a smooth batter.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the baking soda and salt.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix. Overmixing can lead to tough cookie bars.

Step 6: Press Dough into Pan

Press about two-thirds of the cookie dough into the prepared baking pan to form an even layer. Set aside the remaining dough for the topping.

Step 7: Make the Pistachio Filling

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Add Egg and Vanilla to Filling

Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps.

Step 9: Fold in Pistachios

Gently fold in the chopped pistachios. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 10: Spread Filling

Spread the pistachio filling evenly over the cookie base.

Step 11: Crumble Remaining Dough

Crumble the remaining cookie dough over the pistachio filling. Distribute evenly for a nice crumb topping.

Step 12: Bake the Bars

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the filling is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 13: Cool and Cut

Slice of Pistachio cookie bar with nuts.

Let cool completely in the pan before cutting into bars. Cooling completely ensures clean cuts.

CHECK OUT: S’more Cookie Bars – For another delightful cookie bar recipe, try these S’more Cookie Bars.

Tips for Success

Follow these tips for perfect Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars:

Ensure your butter and cream cheese are properly softened for a smooth batter and filling.
Don’t overmix the cookie dough. Overmixing can lead to tough bars.
Toast the pistachios lightly before chopping to enhance their flavor.
Let the bars cool completely before cutting to prevent them from crumbling.

Variations & Substitutions

Customize these Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars to your liking:

Try using different nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, in place of pistachios.
Add chocolate chips to the cookie base or filling for a chocolate pistachio flavor.
Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these bars gluten-free.

For a festive touch, sprinkle some sea salt on top before baking.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars

Serve these Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars with:

A scoop of vanilla ice cream.
A glass of cold milk.
A cup of hot coffee or tea.

These bars are perfect for an afternoon snack or a light dessert.

Health Benefits

While these are a treat, pistachios offer some health benefits:

Pistachios are a good source of healthy fats and protein.
They also contain antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamin B6 and potassium.

Enjoy these bars in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To reheat, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes or microwave them for a few seconds until heated through.

For longer storage, freeze the bars in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the cookie base from being too dry?

Make sure you’re using softened butter and not overmixing the dough. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a drier cookie base.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce the amount of salt in the recipe to 1/8 teaspoon to avoid overly salty bars.

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these bars a day or two in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Can I use pre-chopped pistachios?

Yes, but freshly chopped pistachios will have a better flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch baking pan?

You can use an 8×12 inch baking pan, but the bars will be slightly thicker and may require a few extra minutes of baking time.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total Carbohydrate: 25g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Total Sugars: 15g
Protein: 4g

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Other Sweet Treats You Will Love

If you loved these Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars, you’ll also enjoy these delicious recipes!

Apple Snickerdoodles – A fall twist on a classic cookie, combining the warm spices of snickerdoodles with the sweetness of apples.
Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars – Experience the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls in an easy-to-make bar form.

Conclusion

These Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars are a fast, flavorful, and unique dessert that’s sure to impress. Whip up a batch tonight and share the joy with your loved ones!

Share this recipe with your friends and family who would love it! Join our vibrant community on Facebook and Pinterest for daily recipe inspiration, cooking tips, and more tasty ideas! Happy cooking!

SEO

Focus Keyphrase: Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars