Buttery Pistachio Sugar Cookie Bars
Ingredients
For the Bars:
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup powdered sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract
2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup pistachios (chopped)
For the Frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: Green food coloring (a few drops for a festive touch)
1/2 cup pistachios (finely chopped for topping)
Instructions
1. Make the Sugar Cookie Bars
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch pan with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, vanilla, and almond extract until smooth.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
Fold in the chopped pistachios.
Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let cool completely before frosting.
2. Make the Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until smooth.
Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable. If using, mix in a few drops of green food coloring.
3. Assemble and Garnish
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cookie bars.
Sprinkle the finely chopped pistachios over the frosting for a lovely crunch.
Slice into bars and serve!