Pistachio Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pistachio Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Looking for an easy dessert that’s unique and full of flavor? You've found it! These Pistachio Bars are soft, chewy, and packed with pistachio goodness, thanks to instant pudding mix and plenty of chopped nuts. Additionally, a cream cheese frosting provides a luscious tang that pairs perfectly with the nutty sweetness of the bars.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword cream cheese frosting, dessert, dessert bars, pistachio

Cook Time 22

Total Time 22

Servings

Calories 476kcal

Ingredients

Bars

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 boxes (3.4 ounces each) instant pistachio pudding mix
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 egg
1/2 cup butter melted
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/2 cup chopped pistachios

Frosting

4 ounces cream cheese softened
3 tablespoons butter softened
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of kosher salt
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk as needed
1/3 cup chopped pistachios for topping

Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. Then, lightly grease or spray a 9x13-inch baking pan. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, pistachio pudding mix, sugar, and baking powder.
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, melted butter, vegetable oil, milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the chopped pistachios.
Press the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18–22 minutes or until the edges turn a light golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese, butter, almond extract, vanilla extract, and kosher salt until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, mix in milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled bars, then sprinkle with chopped pistachios.
Cut into 24 squares and enjoy!

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