I still remember the first bite of these Pistachio Cream Bars. The nutty crunch mixed with the creamy layer made me stop and smile. It felt so fancy but also so cozy.

I kept going back for another square. The sweet and salty flavor just works so well. Honestly, they disappear fast every time I make them.

If you’re looking for a treat that feels special but is super simple, these bars are perfect. Let’s jump in and I’ll show you how easy it is to make them at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Reader Favorite: So many of you have shared how much you love the creamy, dreamy pistachio filling! It’s a simple, no-fail dessert that’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Easy to Make: This recipe uses basic ingredients and doesn’t require any baking expertise. It’s perfect for beginners or anyone who needs a quick and delicious dessert.
Flavorful Pistachio Cream: The pistachio flavor really shines in the creamy topping, making each bite a satisfying treat.
No-Bake Option: The bars can be made ahead and kept chilled, making them great for meal prep or parties.
Great for All Occasions: Whether you’re hosting a holiday celebration, having a casual get-together, or just craving something sweet, these Pistachio Cream Bars are versatile and perfect for any occasion.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have these kitchen tools:

9×13-inch Baking Dish: A standard size for this recipe.
Electric Mixer (Hand or Stand): To mix the cream cheese and pistachio pudding filling until smooth and creamy.
Mixing Bowls: For combining the crust and the cream filling.
Spatula or Spoon: For spreading the filling evenly and for cleaning up.
Parchment Paper: To line your baking dish for easy removal and cutting.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these rich and creamy pistachio bars (measurements are in the recipe card below):

For the Crust:

All-Purpose Flour: 1 ¾ cups. This forms the base of the bars.
Granulated Sugar: ⅓ cup. Adds sweetness to balance out the buttery crust.
Salted Butter: 1 cup, softened. You can also use unsalted butter if you prefer more control over the salt in your recipe.

For the Pistachio Cream Filling:

Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened. This gives the filling a smooth, velvety texture.
Powdered Sugar: 1 cup. Sweetens up the pistachio cream.
Milk: ¾ cup. Helps to create a smooth, creamy consistency.
Instant Pistachio Pudding Mix: 1 box (3.4 ounces). This provides the main pistachio flavor and helps thicken the filling.
Chopped Pistachios: ½ cup. For an extra crunch, this adds texture and an even stronger pistachio flavor.

Variations for Pistachio Cream Bars

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun and delicious variations for your Pistachio Cream Bars:

Add Chocolate Chips: If you’re a chocolate lover, fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the pistachio filling for a sweet contrast to the nutty pistachio flavor.
Use Almond Extract: Instead of vanilla extract, add a teaspoon of almond extract to the filling for a nutty twist.
Add a Layer of Fruit: For an extra refreshing touch, layer sliced strawberries, raspberries, or even crushed pineapple on top of the pistachio cream filling.
Top with Whipped Cream: For a fluffier texture, top the bars with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of chopped pistachios before serving.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pistachio Cream Bars

Ready to make these Pistachio Cream Bars? Follow these simple steps for a perfect dessert every time!

1. Make the Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C).

In a medium bowl, combine the flour and granulated sugar. Add the softened butter and mix until the dough starts to come together. You can use a fork or your hands, but an electric mixer will make the job easier.

Press the dough into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish that’s lined with parchment paper. Use your hands or a spatula to spread the dough evenly across the dish. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Once it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely while you prepare the filling.

2. Prepare the Pistachio Cream Filling

While the crust is cooling, it’s time to make the pistachio cream filling.

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Next, add the instant pistachio pudding mix and milk. Beat the mixture on low speed until it’s well combined and smooth. The pudding mix will thicken the filling and give it that rich pistachio flavor.

Once the filling is smooth, gently fold in the chopped pistachios for added texture. The pistachios will add a crunchy bite that complements the creamy filling beautifully.

3. Spread the Filling

Once your crust has cooled completely, spread the pistachio cream filling evenly on top. Use a spatula to smooth it out, ensuring the entire crust is covered with the creamy pistachio mixture.

4. Chill the Bars

Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours, or until the filling has set. The bars should be firm to the touch before you slice them. The chilling time is essential for the filling to fully thicken and achieve that perfect creamy texture.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, cut the bars into squares or rectangles, depending on your preference. Garnish with extra chopped pistachios on top for an added crunch and a more festive look. These bars are best served cold, and the flavors are even better the next day!

How to Serve Pistachio Cream Bars

Pistachio Cream Bars are a great dessert for many occasions. Here’s how you can serve them:

As a Sweet Treat for Dessert: Serve these delicious bars after a hearty dinner, and watch everyone go back for seconds.
At Parties and Gatherings: Cut them into small squares and place them on a dessert table. They’re easy to grab and enjoy!
On Special Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or family gathering, Pistachio Cream Bars will steal the spotlight.
With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these bars as a snack with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or even a latte.

Storing Pistachio Cream Bars

At Room Temperature: If you’re serving the bars the same day, they can be kept at room temperature for a few hours. Just make sure to cover them with plastic wrap or foil.
In the Fridge: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The bars will keep their creamy texture and flavor.
Freezing: If you need to store them for longer, you can freeze the bars. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.

Nutrition (per serving)

Here’s a general nutrition breakdown for Pistachio Cream Bars. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the exact ingredients you use:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	~250
Fat	~18g
Carbohydrates	~22g
Fiber	~1g
Sugar	~16g
Protein	~3g

Conclusion

Pistachio Cream Bars are a must-try dessert for anyone who loves pistachios and creamy treats. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday dinner, taking them to a potluck, or just enjoying them as a treat with your afternoon coffee, they’re sure to be a hit!

With their buttery crust and smooth pistachio filling, these bars deliver a perfect balance of textures and flavors in every bite. And since they can be made ahead and kept in the fridge, they’re the ideal dessert to prepare for busy weeks or special occasions.