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Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars

Irresistible Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars for Sweet Cravings

Delight in Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars, a perfect blend of tart blackberries and crunchy pistachios on a buttery shortbread base.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

For the Crust
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (cold and cubed) Avoid margarine for best results.
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar Feel free to adjust the amount to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances flavors throughout the dessert.
  • 1 large Egg Yolk Avoid using the whole egg.
  • 2-3 tablespoons Ice Water Essential for the perfect dough texture.
For the Filling
  • 2 cups Fresh Blackberries Can be swapped with any berries like raspberries or blueberries.
  • 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice Always opt for fresh juice.
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch Thickens the blackberry filling.
For the Topping
  • 1/2 cup Light Brown Sugar Can be substituted with granulated sugar.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Baking Powder Ensures a light texture for the topping.
  • 1/2 cup Pistachios (shelled and unsalted) Swap for almonds, walnuts, or pecans if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch pan
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then add the egg yolk and ice water. Mix until a dough forms, then press it evenly into a greased 9x13 inch pan. Pre-bake the crust for 15–20 minutes or until lightly golden.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh blackberries and sugar, cooking for about 5–7 minutes until the blackberries release their juices and begin to soften. Remove from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and cornstarch. Return to heat and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until thickened. Allow this vibrant filling to cool slightly.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together light brown sugar, baking powder, and flour until well combined. Cut in cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly, then stir in one egg and vanilla extract until mixed. Gently fold in the shelled, unsalted pistachios, ensuring they're evenly distributed throughout the topping mixture.
  4. Pour the blackberry filling over the pre-baked crust, spreading it out evenly. Carefully add the pistachio topping by spooning it over the berry layer and pressing down gently to ensure it adheres. Bake for 30–35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  5. Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the bars to cool in the pan for 1–2 hours. After cooling, slice the Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars into squares and enjoy!

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 90mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze wrapped bars for up to 2 months.

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