3-Layer Pistachio Cheesecake Bars
These 3-layer pistachio cheesecake bars are creamy, lightly nutty, and built on a rich chocolate cookie crust. The dessert has three delicious layers: a chocolate Oreo crust, a smooth cheesecake layer, and a fluffy pistachio topping that gives the bars their beautiful green color and sweet nutty flavor.
Servings
12–16 bars
Ingredients
For the Crust
13 Oreo-style chocolate sandwich cookies
3 tablespoons melted butter
For the Cheesecake Layer
16 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
For the Pistachio Layer
1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
1 cup whipped topping (such as whipped cream or Cool Whip)
Optional Topping
2 tablespoons chopped pistachios
Extra whipped topping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
Crush the Oreo cookies into fine crumbs (with filling included).
Mix the crumbs with melted butter until evenly combined.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the pan to form the crust.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, then remove and let cool slightly.
2. Make the Cheesecake Layer
In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth.
Add sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
Beat in the egg until fully combined.
Spread the mixture evenly over the cooled crust.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the center is set.
Let the cheesecake cool completely.
3. Prepare the Pistachio Layer
In a bowl whisk together the pistachio pudding mix and cold milk for about 2 minutes until thick.
Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth and fluffy.
Spread the pistachio mixture evenly over the cooled cheesecake layer.
4. Chill
Refrigerate the bars for at least 2 hours (or overnight) so they set properly.
5. Slice and Serve
Lift the dessert from the pan using parchment paper.
Cut into squares or bars.
Garnish with chopped pistachios or extra whipped topping if desired.
Tips for Perfect Bars
Chill well before cutting for clean layers.
Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts.
For extra pistachio flavor, add 1–2 tablespoons finely chopped pistachios to the top layer.
