Name: Buttery Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup shelled pistachios, roughly chopped; 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 22 reviews

If you’re craving a treat that brings together rich, nutty flavor and tender sweetness, the Buttery Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These bars are a delightful twist on classic sugar cookies, delivering a perfect balance of soft, buttery texture and the satisfying crunch of pistachios in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a cozy afternoon snack or an impressive dessert for guests, this recipe is simple enough to whip up anytime and special enough to make everyone ask for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a stack of square-shaped pistachio bars on brown baking paper over a white marbled surface. Each bar has two visible layers: a golden-brown crust on the bottom and a thicker, light green pistachio layer on top. The surface of the bars is sprinkled with crushed green pistachios and a light dusting of powdered sugar, adding texture and color contrast. The bars have a soft, crumbly texture with slightly browned edges, and they are arranged in a loose pile, showcasing the layers clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this recipe has a vital role, from creating that irresistible buttery base to adding layers of flavor and texture that make these sugar cookie bars truly unforgettable. Here’s what you’ll gather to craft this delicious treat:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened): The foundation of richness and softness, it brings that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds classic sweetness and helps with that desirable cookie bar texture.
1/2 cup brown sugar (packed): Lends a subtle caramel undertone and keeps the bars moist.
2 large eggs: Provide structure and tenderness, binding everything together perfectly.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Delivers a warm aroma and depth of flavor that elevates the bars.
3 cups all-purpose flour: Gives the bars their sturdy, yet soft crumb.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bars rise gently, keeping them light.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a touch of lift and tenderness.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1 cup shelled pistachios (roughly chopped): The star ingredient, bringing crunch and that distinctive nutty flavor.
1/2 cup white chocolate chips (optional): Adds creamy sweetness and pairs beautifully with pistachios.

How to Make Buttery Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Start by heating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Then, grease your 9×13 inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving a neat overhang on the sides. This little trick ensures your cookie bars come out effortlessly once baked.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk. Keep going for about 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, setting the stage for those soft, tender bars.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract, which provides that irresistible warmth and aromatic charm you’re aiming for.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into your wet mixture, but be careful not to overmix—this keeps your cookie bars tender and soft rather than dense.

Step 5: Fold in Pistachios and White Chocolate

Gently fold in the chopped pistachios and white chocolate chips, if you’re using them, with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon. This step evenly distributes the nuts and melty pockets of white chocolate, making each bite a little adventure.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the cookie dough into your prepared pan and level the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges turn a lovely light golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to firm up slightly. Then use the parchment overhang to lift them out and transfer to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, slice into bars and get ready to enjoy the magic you’ve made!

How to Serve Buttery Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe

A stack of square bars with two visible layers: the bottom layer is light beige with a soft, slightly crumbly texture, and the top layer is a light green with a moist, cake-like texture. Each bar is topped with small pieces of chopped green pistachios and a light dusting of powdered sugar, adding texture and color contrast. The bars sit on a piece of parchment paper placed on a warm brown wooden board, with a white marbled background softly blurred behind them. Some pistachio crumbs are scattered around the base of the stack. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, sprinkle some finely chopped pistachios on top after baking, or add a delicate drizzle of melted white chocolate. A light dusting of powdered sugar also adds a pretty, festive touch that brightens these buttery bars.

Side Dishes

Pair these bars with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a luscious dessert experience. A freshly brewed cup of coffee or a fragrant tea also complements the nutty sweetness beautifully, turning snack time into a special moment.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these bars on a wooden board with a scattering of pistachios and a few white chocolate chunks around for an inviting look. Alternatively, cut into bite-sized squares and arrange them on a colorful plate for parties, making them irresistible finger food for your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, keep your Buttery Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to 4 days and maintain their soft, chewy texture wonderfully.

Freezing

If you want to keep these bars around longer, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months—just thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To warm them up, pop the bars in a microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds or heat in an oven at low temperature for a few minutes. This revives their buttery softness and brings out the aroma of toasted pistachios all over again.

FAQs

Can I substitute the pistachios with another nut?

Absolutely! While pistachios give this recipe its signature flavor, you can swap them with chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans. Each nut will lend a slightly different crunch and taste, but the bars will still be delicious.

Are white chocolate chips necessary?

White chocolate chips are optional but highly recommended. They add a creamy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the earthy pistachios. If you prefer, you can leave them out or try dark or milk chocolate chips instead.

How thick are these cookie bars supposed to be?

The dough spreads evenly in a 9×13 inch pan, resulting in bars about one inch thick. This thickness strikes the perfect balance between being tender inside and slightly golden on the edges.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

It’s best to use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the recipe, but if you only have salted butter, reduce or omit the added salt. Taste as you go to find the perfect balance.

Do these bars keep their texture well?

Yes! These buttery bars maintain a soft and chewy texture for days when stored properly. Just be sure to keep them in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting and delightful about the Buttery Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe that makes it a keeper in any kitchen. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or friends, these bars deliver that buttery, nutty happiness that feels like a warm hug. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon understand why it’s such a beloved favorite.