Irresistible Pistachio Chocolate Bars: A Delightful Recipe

Discover the ultimate treat with these pistachio chocolate bars—a perfect blend of creamy filling, crunchy crust, and rich ganache that will have everyone asking for seconds. In this article, we’ll guide you through every step to create this delectable dessert, ensuring it’s not only delicious but also easy to follow. Let’s dive into this pistachio dessert recipe that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients Needed for Pistachio Chocolate Bars

Crust Ingredients

• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Salt
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Almond extract
• Oreo crumbs
• Ground pistachios

Filling Ingredients

• Cream cheese
• Powdered sugar
• Lemon juice
• Vanilla extract
• Almond extract
• Salt
• Pistachio cream
• Tahini
• Heavy cream

Ganache Ingredients

• Chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
• Heavy cream
• Corn syrup

Preparing the Crust: A Solid Foundation

Step 1: Line the Baking Pan

Begin by lining a 9×9-inch square pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on all sides. This will make it easy to remove your bars once they’re set.

Step 2: Mix the Crust Ingredients

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Heat the mixture in 30-second intervals, stirring until it’s bubbling and the sugar is dissolved (about 2 to 2.5 minutes).

Step 3: Add Oreo Crumbs and Pistachios

Once your butter mixture is ready, stir in the almond extract, Oreo crumbs, and ground pistachios until everything is fully moistened. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of the prepared pan.

Step 4: Chill the Crust

Place the pan in the freezer to firm up the crust for 20 to 30 minutes.

Crafting the Creamy Filling

Step 1: Beat Ingredients Together

In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and lemon juice until smooth (about 2 minutes).

Step 2: Incorporate Flavor

Next, add the vanilla, almond extract, and salt, mixing until well combined. Stir in the pistachio cream and tahini until smooth.

Step 3: Whip the Cream

Finally, add the cold heavy cream and whip the mixture for about 5 minutes until it thickens.

Assembling Your Pistachio Chocolate Bars

Step 1: Pour the Filling

Remove the crust from the freezer and pour the creamy filling onto the chilled crust, smoothing it into an even layer.

Step 2: Remove Air Bubbles

Gently tap the pan on the counter to release any large air bubbles. Then, return it to the freezer for at least three hours, or until the filling is mostly set.

Creating the Ganache Layer

Step 1: Prepare the Ganache

In a bowl, place the chocolate chips. Heat 3/4 cup of cream and corn syrup in a microwave-safe glass measuring cup until the cream begins to bubble (about 2.5 minutes).

Step 2: Mix Until Smooth

Pour the heated cream mixture over the chocolate chips and let it sit for about 3 minutes. Gently stir until it becomes smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Chill the Ganache

Remove the bars from the freezer, pour the ganache over the filling, and spread it evenly. For an added crunch, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped pistachios over the ganache. Return to the freezer for an additional 15 minutes to set the ganache.

Serving Your Pistachio Chocolate Bars

Step 1: Prepare to Cut

When you’re ready to serve, lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and place them on a cutting board. Carefully peel away the parchment.

Step 2: Cut with Precision

To cut the bars neatly, run a sharp knife under hot water for a few seconds, then dry. This helps create clean cuts through the layers. Repeat as needed until all bars are sliced.

Step 3: Enjoy!

Store any leftover bars in the freezer, but allow them to soften at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving.

Cook’s Note for a Perfect Finish

• For an extra pistachio flavor, consider adding a few drops of pistachio extract to the filling.
• If using store-bought pistachio cream, be mindful of the sweetness and adjust the powdered sugar accordingly.
• Opt for dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer taste, or serve with an extra dollop of homemade pistachio cream on top for a decadent touch!

Enjoy creating these delicious pistachio chocolate bars, and don’t be surprised when they become your new go-to dessert!