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Pistachio Dream Bars: 5 Simple Layers for Creamy Bliss

Pistachio Dream Bars: 5 Simple Layers for Creamy Bliss

Indulge in Pistachio Dream Bars: a chilled layered dessert with five simple layers of creamy bliss.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 bars
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch Baking Dish
  • mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Crust

  • 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
  • 10 tablespoons salted butter melted
  • ¼ cup shelled pistachios finely chopped

For the Cream Cheese Layer

  • 16 ounces cream cheese softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup whipped topping

For the Pistachio Layer

  • 2 boxes instant pistachio pudding mix 3.4 ounces each
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk cold

For the Topping

  • 3 cups whipped topping
  • ¼ cup shelled pistachios chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Crust

  • Preheat oven to 350°F.
  • Mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and finely chopped pistachios in a bowl until the texture looks like wet sand.
  • Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Bake and Cool

  • Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes, until lightly set and fragrant.
  • Remove from the oven.
  • Cool completely before adding the next layer.

Make the Cream Cheese Layer

  • Beat softened cream cheese and sugar until smooth and creamy.
  • Fold in 1 cup whipped topping until light and fluffy.

Spread the Cream Cheese Layer

  • Spoon the cream cheese mixture over the cooled crust.
  • Spread gently into an even layer.

Prepare the Pistachio Layer

  • In another bowl, whisk together the instant pistachio pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes.
  • Mix until thickened but still spreadable.

Add the Pistachio Layer

  • Carefully spread the pistachio pudding mixture over the cream cheese layer.
  • Smooth the top gently to keep the layers neat.

Add the Topping

  • Spread the remaining whipped topping over the pistachio layer.
  • Smooth into a soft, even top layer.

Chill and Finish

  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
  • Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top before serving.

Slice and Serve

  • Cut into squares or bars.
  • Serve chilled for the best creamy texture.

Notes

Let the cream cheese soften fully before mixing for the smoothest layer. Cool the crust completely before adding the filling so the layers stay distinct. Spread each layer gently with a spatula to avoid pulling up the layer beneath it. Chill overnight for even cleaner slices. Wipe the knife between cuts for a neat finish.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 17gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 20gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 2mg
Keyword cool dessert, Cream Cheese, layered dessert, Pistachio Dream Bars, pistachio pudding, Vegetarian
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