Pistachio bars

Consider this my late St. Patrick's day contribution.

A classmate brought these delicious treats in one day this week, and it was the first time I've ever tried anything pistachio. They were so yummy! The best part about this recipe, however, is that you can substitute any other flavor of pudding mix for pistachio.

You'll need: 

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
1 box (4-serving size) pistachio-flavored instant pudding and pie filling mix
3/4 cup cold milk
1/2 cup pistachio nuts, coarsely chopped

Directions:

Heat the oven to 325°F (if using dark or nonstick pan, heat oven to 300°F). In a medium bowl, stir together flour and granulated sugar. Beat in butter with electric mixer on medium speed until blended. Press dough on bottom of ungreased 13x9-inch pan.

Bake 20 to 25 minutes or just until edges are lightly browned. Cool completely in pan on cooling rack, about 30 minutes.

In medium bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar on medium speed until blended. Beat in pudding mix (dry) and milk. 

Spread over crust. Chop the pistachios and sprinkle them over the top.

Refrigerate about 1 hour or until set. For bars, cut into 6 rows by 6 rows. Store covered in refrigerator.

Enjoy!