Pistachio Blondies

These Pistachio Blondies are a delicious, nutty twist on a classic bakery favorite. By incorporating a packet of instant pistachio pudding mix into a rich butter-and-sugar base, the bars develop exceptional moisture and a dense, fudgy texture. The pudding mix also adds a subtle green tint and a delicate pistachio-almond aroma. Loaded with crunchy chopped pistachios and creamy white chocolate chips, these blondies bake into irresistible bars with a beautifully shiny top and a soft, chewy center.

Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Butter (2 sticks, room temperature)	1 cup
Brown sugar	3/4 cup
Granulated sugar	1/4 cup
Eggs	2
Pure vanilla extract	1/2 teaspoon
Instant pistachio pudding mix	1 packet (3.4 oz)
All-purpose flour	2 1/3 cups
Baking soda	1 teaspoon
Salt	1 teaspoon
Unsalted pistachios, roughly chopped	1 cup
White chocolate chips	1/2 cup

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.

Step 2: Make the Batter Base

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and smooth. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and instant pistachio pudding mix. Mix until fully combined and evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a thick dough forms and no dry flour remains.

Kitchen Tip: Avoid overmixing once the flour is added. Excess mixing develops gluten, which can make the blondies tough rather than soft and fudgy.

Step 4: Fold in the Mix-Ins

Add the chopped pistachios and white chocolate chips to the dough. Fold gently with a rubber spatula until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Bake

Spread the dough evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Bake for 25 to 28 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

Remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Allow the blondies to cool completely, about 30 minutes, before cutting into squares. This cooling time helps the bars set properly and develop their signature fudgy texture.