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Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars

Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars: A Slice of Summer Bliss

Enjoy the delightful Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars, a perfect summer dessert that combines tangy blackberries and crunchy pistachios.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 16 bars
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
  • 1 cup rolled oats Ensure oats are certified gluten-free if necessary.
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar Can be replaced with coconut sugar for a less processed option.
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Use less if you prefer a less sweet bar.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Helps the base rise; no substitutions needed.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Essential for balancing the sweetness of the bars.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Can swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
For the Blackberry Layer
  • 2 cups fresh blackberries Frozen blackberries can be used; thaw and drain excess moisture.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch Substitute with arrowroot powder if desired.
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice Lime juice can be an alternative.
For the Topping
  • 1/2 cup pistachios Can replace with any favorite nut such as almonds or walnuts.
  • 8 oz cream cheese Use a plant-based cream cheese for a vegan option.
  • 1 cup powdered sugar Can reduce quantity for less sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract No substitutions needed for added depth.

Equipment

  • 8x8-inch baking pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Saucepan
  • Spatula
  • Whisk
  • Electric mixer or whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk until evenly distributed.
  3. Melt the unsalted butter and pour it into the dry ingredients. Mix until crumbly.
  4. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly and pressing down firmly. Bake for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.
  5. Combine fresh blackberries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until thickened.
  6. Pour the blackberry mixture over the baked base and spread evenly.
  7. In a clean bowl, combine softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  8. Spread the cream cheese mixture over the blackberry layer and sprinkle chopped pistachios on top.
  9. Bake the assembled bars for an additional 15 minutes until the topping sets slightly.
  10. Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for an hour before slicing.
  11. Lift the bars out of the pan using the parchment overhang and slice into squares.

Nutrition

Serving: 1barCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 100mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 2gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Using the freshest blackberries and pistachios significantly enhances the flavor. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture. Watch the baking time closely to prevent hardening of the crust. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.

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