Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars are a delicious balance of flavors and textures. The slightly sweet and nutty oat-based crust pairs perfectly with the tart, juicy blackberries and crunchy pistachios on top. A touch of lemon juice brightens the flavors, and the bars are easy to prepare with minimal effort. With their buttery crust, fruity filling, and nutty topping, these bars are a perfect dessert or snack for any occasion.

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup rolled oats
½ cup brown sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup fresh blackberries
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ cup pistachios, roughly chopped
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Prepare the crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir to combine.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter and vanilla extract until well combined.
Combine mixtures: Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until a crumbly dough forms. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs.
Press the crust: Firmly press about two-thirds of the dough mixture into the bottom of your prepared baking dish to form the crust. Set aside the remaining dough mixture for topping.
Prepare the blackberry filling: In another bowl, gently toss the fresh blackberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. The sugar will help draw out the juices from the berries.
Layer the filling: Evenly spread the blackberry mixture over the pressed crust.
Add toppings: Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture evenly over the blackberries. Then, sprinkle the chopped pistachios on top for a crunchy finish.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Cool and slice: Allow the bars to cool in the pan for about 1 hour. Use the parchment overhang to lift them out, then slice them into squares.
Dust with powdered sugar: If desired, dust the tops with powdered sugar for an elegant, finishing touch.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 bars
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes (including cooling time)

Variations

Other fruits: Try using raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of berries for a colorful twist.
Add spices: For a more aromatic flavor, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling.
Nut substitutions: If you don’t have pistachios, you can substitute with chopped almonds, walnuts, or hazelnuts for a different texture.
Vegan version: Swap the butter for vegan butter and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water) to make this recipe vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

Storing: Store these bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They can also be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week for a firmer texture.
Freezing: These bars freeze well! Wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen blackberries instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen blackberries, but be sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before using them in the filling.

Can I use a different nut instead of pistachios?

Absolutely! You can use any nut you prefer, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans. The nut will still add that wonderful crunch and flavor.

How do I get the bars to hold together?

Make sure to press the crust mixture firmly into the baking dish and bake the bars until they are golden and firm. Cooling them for at least an hour in the pan will help them set.

Can I make these bars gluten-free?

Yes, you can make these bars gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and using certified gluten-free oats.

How can I make these bars more decadent?

For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle melted chocolate or a simple glaze over the top of the bars once they’re cooled.

Conclusion

These Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars are an irresistible combination of sweet, tart, and nutty, with a delightful crumbly texture and beautiful presentation. With just a few ingredients, you can create a show-stopping treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a party or as a simple dessert, these bars are sure to impress and satisfy every time. Try this recipe today and indulge in the sweet, nutty goodness!

Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

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Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars offer a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and nutty flavors with a crumbly oat-based crust, juicy blackberry filling, and a pistachio topping, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes (including cooling time)
Yield: 12 bars
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Stir to combine.
In a separate bowl, mix melted butter and vanilla extract until combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
Press about two-thirds of the dough mixture into the bottom of the baking dish to form the crust. Set aside the remaining dough mixture for topping.
In another bowl, toss the blackberries with granulated sugar and lemon juice. Spread the blackberry mixture evenly over the crust.
Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the blackberries, and top with chopped pistachios.
Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Let the bars cool for 1 hour, then slice into squares.
If desired, dust the bars with powdered sugar before serving.