These Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars are the ultimate layered dessert for anyone who loves rich, nutty flavors paired with creamy sweetness. With buttery cookie layers, crunchy pistachios, and smooth white chocolate in every bite, this easy baked dessert is perfect for holidays, parties, or everyday indulgence. Soft in the center and golden on the edges, these bars deliver bakery-style results with simple pantry ingredients.

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Ingredients

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, firmly packed
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
1 cup white chocolate chips

Instructions For Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture until fully combined.
Gently fold in chopped pistachios and white chocolate chips.
Spread batter evenly into the prepared pan.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until edges are golden and the center is set.
Cool completely before slicing into bars.

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Pro Tips

Use unsalted pistachios to control salt levels.
Lightly toast pistachios for deeper flavor.
Avoid overbaking to keep the bars soft and chewy.
Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, bakery-style dessert with minimal effort
Perfect balance of crunchy nuts and creamy sweetness
Easy to customize with different mix-ins
Ideal for gifting, potlucks, and celebrations

Substitutions & Variations

Swap pistachios for almonds, pecans, or walnuts
Replace white chocolate with dark or milk chocolate chips
Add ½ teaspoon almond extract for enhanced nutty flavor
Mix in dried cranberries or apricots for a fruity twist

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating Guide

Make-Ahead: Bake up to 24 hours in advance
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 5–7 days
Freezing: Freeze individual bars for up to 2 months
Reheating: Warm briefly in the microwave for a fresh-baked taste

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Serving Ideas For Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars

Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
Drizzle with melted white chocolate for presentation
Pair with coffee, tea, or holiday beverages
Cut into small squares for dessert platters

Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)

Calories: ~200
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Sugar: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Sodium: 150mg

Frequently Asked Questions About Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars

Can I make pistachio cookie bars ahead of time?

Yes, these bars taste even better the next day and store well.

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How do I know when they’re done baking?

Edges should be golden, and a toothpick should come out clean or with moist crumbs.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

You can slightly reduce white chocolate chips or use dark chocolate instead.

Are these cookie bars freezer-friendly?

Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to two months.

Pistachio Dream Cookie Bars are a rich, crowd-pleasing dessert that combines buttery texture, nutty crunch, and creamy sweetness. Easy to bake and endlessly customizable, they’re a reliable go-to recipe for both everyday treats and special occasions.