Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

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Sweet, chewy, and infused with the subtle nutty flavor of pistachio, these Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars are a treat that’s as delicious as they are vibrant. With their striking green hue and soft, buttery base, they’re perfect for spring gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a colorful addition to your dessert tray. The combination of pistachio pudding and classic sugar cookie dough creates an irresistible fusion of textures—dense yet tender, with a slight crispness at the edges.

These bars are incredibly easy to make and require minimal prep time, making them a favorite for busy bakers looking for a quick dessert that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Whether you’re baking for a party or indulging in an after-dinner snack, the creamy richness and nutty sweetness of this recipe are sure to win over everyone who takes a bite.

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Ingredients for Pistachio Pudding Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

• 1 pouch (about 17.5 oz) sugar cookie mix
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix (dry)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but enhances the pistachio flavor)
• A few drops of green food coloring (optional, for a more vibrant color)

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Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal. This ensures the bars won’t stick and allows for a clean cut once baked.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar cookie mix, pistachio pudding mix (dry—do not prepare it), and flour. Whisk together until all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. The pudding mix will add a unique texture and flavor to the base.

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Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Add softened butter, egg, almond extract (if using), and food coloring into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed to blend until a soft dough forms. The dough will be slightly sticky and tinted green thanks to the pudding and coloring.

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Step 4: Press and Bake

Transfer the dough to the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula or clean hands to press the dough evenly into the pan. Smooth the top as best as you can. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the center is set. Avoid overbaking—these bars are meant to be soft and chewy.

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Step 5: Cool and Slice

Allow the bars to cool completely in the pan before slicing. Once cooled, lift them out using the parchment paper (if used) and cut into squares or rectangles. For clean edges, use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between each slice.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per bar (based on 24 bars):

• Calories: ~170 kcal
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Sugar: 14g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 130mg

Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the brands and portion sizes used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use homemade sugar cookie dough instead of the mix?

Yes, you can use your favorite homemade sugar cookie base, just make sure the dough consistency is soft enough to press into a pan.

2. Is it okay to use regular pudding instead of instant?

No, only dry instant pudding mix works for this recipe. Cooked or prepared pudding will not provide the same structure or flavor.

3. Can I leave out the almond extract?

Absolutely. The extract enhances the nutty flavor, but the bars are still delicious without it.

4. How can I make these gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free sugar cookie mix and all-purpose gluten-free flour. Always check labels to ensure your pudding mix is also gluten-free.

5. Can I add chopped pistachios for texture?

Definitely! Stir in about ½ cup of chopped pistachios into the dough for extra crunch and visual appeal.

6. Why is my dough too dry or crumbly?

If your dough feels dry, try adding 1–2 tablespoons of milk or softened butter until it holds together better.

7. How do I get clean cuts when slicing?

Cool the bars completely and use a sharp knife. For best results, wipe the knife between cuts.

8. Can I frost these bars?

Yes! A light cream cheese frosting or vanilla glaze would pair wonderfully with the pistachio flavor.

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