Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture – The combination of pudding and whipped cream makes each bite irresistibly smooth.
- Perfect balance of flavors – Buttery shortbread pairs beautifully with the nutty, slightly sweet pistachio filling.
- Great for gatherings – These bars are easy to cut and serve, making them ideal for parties, potlucks, or holidays.
- Simple to prepare – With easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet tastes gourmet.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 1 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 package cream cheese (8oz/250g), softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 box Pistachio instant pudding mix (4-serving size)
- ¾ cup milk
- ¼ cup pistachios, roughly chopped
For the White Layer:
- 1 package (8oz/250g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Crust
- Preheat oven to 300ºF.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and sugar.
- Beat in the butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture comes together.
- Press the dough evenly into a 13×9 inch pan to form the crust.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let cool completely.
- Make the Pistachio Cream Layer
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Add the milk and pistachio pudding mix, continuing to beat until fully combined.
- Prepare the Vanilla Bean Cream Layer
- In another bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold in the vanilla bean seeds or vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Bars
- Spread the vanilla bean cream evenly over the cooled shortbread base.
- Layer the pistachio pudding mixture on top.
- Sprinkle with chopped pistachios for a crunchy finish.
- Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until fully set.
- Cut into bars and serve chilled.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 24 to 36 bars, depending on portion size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes + chilling
- Calories per bar: 136 kcal (approximate)
Variations
- Chocolate Twist – Add a layer of melted dark chocolate between the crust and pistachio layer for extra indulgence.
- Nutty Crunch – Mix in crushed almonds or walnuts with the chopped pistachios for added texture.
- Gluten-Free Option – Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour to make it gluten-free.
- Extra Flavor – Drizzle with caramel or honey for a sweeter, richer taste.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing – Freeze for up to 2 months. Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap and store in a sealed container.
- Serving Tip – If frozen, allow the bars to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different pudding flavor?
Yes! Vanilla or butterscotch pudding would also work well with this recipe.
2. Do I have to use a vanilla bean?
No, you can use 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract as a substitute.
3. Can I make these bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! They are best when chilled for several hours or overnight, making them a great make-ahead dessert.
4. How do I prevent the crust from becoming too hard?
Be sure not to overbake the shortbread crust. Remove it when the edges turn golden brown.
5. Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, but add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
6. Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?
Yes, but fresh whipped cream provides a better texture and flavor.
7. Do these bars need to be kept refrigerated?
Yes, because of the cream cheese and pudding layers, they must be stored in the fridge.
8. Can I add food coloring for a more vibrant green color?
Yes, if you want a brighter green, you can add a drop or two of food coloring.
9. What’s the best way to cut these bars cleanly?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts for neat slices.
10. Can I make this recipe in a smaller pan for thicker bars?
Yes, using an 8×8-inch pan will result in thicker layers, but the chilling time may need to be extended.
Conclusion
These Pistachio Cream Bars are a creamy, nutty delight that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a buttery shortbread crust, smooth pistachio pudding, and fluffy vanilla bean cream, every bite is a treat. Whether you’re making them for a party or just a personal indulgence, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. Try them today and enjoy a unique, delicious dessert
