Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars

Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars

By | | dessert

If you love the combination of fruity sweetness and nutty crunch, these Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars are about to become your new favorite dessert! With layers of buttery crust, creamy filling, juicy blackberries, and crunchy pistachios, every bite delivers a dreamy texture and flavor. They’re easy to make, perfect for summer gatherings, and guaranteed to impress.

In this post, you’ll learn exactly how to make these decadent bars at home — step-by-step — plus tips to ensure they turn out perfect every time!

Ingredients for Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars

Here’s what you’ll need to create these luscious bars:

For the crust:

  • 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs (or digestive biscuits)

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

the cream cheese layer:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • ½ cup powdered sugar

  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

  • 1 cup whipped topping (or freshly whipped cream)

the blackberry layer:

  • 2 cups fresh blackberries (or frozen, thawed and drained)

  • ¼ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch

For the pistachio layer:

  • 1 cup pistachios, shelled and roughly chopped

  • 1 (3.4 oz) box instant pistachio pudding mix

  • 1 ½ cups cold milk

Optional topping:

  • Additional whipped topping

  • Extra blackberries

  • Chopped pistachios

Required Kitchen Tools

To prepare Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars, you’ll need:

  • 9×9-inch or 8×8-inch baking dish

  • Mixing bowls (small, medium, and large)

  • Electric mixer or whisk

  • Saucepan

  • Spatula

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Sharp knife (for cutting bars)

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

1. Prepare the crust

  1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar.

  2. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your baking dish to create an even layer.

  3. Place in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the other layers.

2. Make the blackberry filling

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine blackberries, sugar, and lemon juice.

  2. Stir and cook until the blackberries begin to break down and release their juices (about 5–7 minutes).

  3. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to form a slurry.

  4. Add the slurry to the blackberry mixture and cook for another 2–3 minutes until thickened.

  5. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.

3. Prepare the cream cheese layer

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.

  2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.

  3. Gently fold in the whipped topping.

  4. Spread this layer evenly over the chilled crust.

4. Make the pistachio layer

  1. In another bowl, whisk together the pistachio pudding mix and cold milk for 2–3 minutes until thickened.

  2. Fold in the chopped pistachios, reserving a few for garnish if desired.

  3. Spread this layer over the cream cheese layer.

5. Add the blackberry layer

  1. Gently spoon the cooled blackberry filling over the pistachio layer.

  2. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.

6. Chill and serve

  1. Refrigerate the assembled bars for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best results.

  2. Once fully chilled and set, slice into squares.

  3. Optional: Top with additional whipped topping, fresh blackberries, and extra chopped pistachios for garnish.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars

  • Use fresh berries when possible for the brightest flavor, but frozen berries work too — just be sure to drain excess liquid.

  • Chill thoroughly — these bars need time to set, so plan ahead and let them refrigerate overnight if possible.

  • Line your baking dish with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaner cuts.

  • Customize it! You can swap the graham cracker crust for an Oreo or shortbread crust, or add a hint of citrus zest to the cream cheese layer for extra brightness.

Approximate Nutritional Value (per serving, based on 12 bars)

Please note: This is an estimate and will vary depending on exact ingredients used.

  • Calories: ~280 kcal

  • Total Fat: ~18 g

  • Saturated Fat: ~8 g

  • Carbohydrates: ~25 g

  • Sugar: ~16 g

  • Protein: ~4 g

  • Fiber: ~2 g

  • Sodium: ~200 mg

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars

These Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars truly live up to their name — dreamy, decadent, and delightfully different! The contrast of tart blackberries, creamy pistachio pudding, and velvety cream cheese over a buttery crust makes each bite unforgettable. Whether you’re serving them at a picnic, potluck, or special family dinner, these bars will quickly become a standout favorite.

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