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Dive into the world of decadent desserts with our Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars. This recipe combines the nutty crunch of pistachios, the creamy smoothness of cream cheese, and the tart sweetness of blackberries to create a multi-layered treat that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate. Perfect for any occasion, these dream bars offer a symphony of flavors and textures that promise to enchant your taste buds. Follow our detailed recipe below to create this exquisite dessert that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

For the base:

• 1 cup crushed digestive biscuits
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

F or the pistachio layer:

• 1 cup shelled pistachios, finely ground
• 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1/4 cup heavy cream

Fo r the cream cheese layer:

• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

F or the blackberry layer:

• 2 cups fresh blackberries
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Fo r the topping:

• 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped
• Fresh blackberries for garnish

Directions:

1. Mix crushed biscuits with melted butter and press into the bottom of a lined 8×8 inch baking pan. Chill for 20 minutes.
2. Blend ground pistachios with confectioners’ sugar and heavy cream until smooth. Spread over the biscuit base and chill for another 20 minutes.
3. Beat cream cheese with confectioners’ sugar and vanilla until creamy. Spread over the pistachio layer and chill.
4. Heat blackberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until thickened. Cool slightly before spreading over the cream cheese layer. Chill until set.
5. Before serving, sprinkle with chopped pistachios and garnish with fresh blackberries.

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes + chilling | Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 9 squares

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Potassium: 235mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 22g
• Vitamin A: 500IU
• Vitamin C: 8mg
• Calcium: 60mg
• Iron: 1.5mg

This dessert is not only a treat for the senses but also provides a good balance of nutrients. The pistachios add healthy fats and fiber, while the blackberries contribute antioxidants and vitamin C. The cream cheese layer offers calcium and protein, making these bars a guilt-free indulgence.

Notes:

• For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with a light cream or milk, and use a low-fat cream cheese.
• Ensure the base is firmly pressed and chilled to prevent the layers from mixing.
• Allow the blackberry layer to cool slightly before adding to prevent melting the cream cheese layer.
• These bars can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve chilled for a refreshing dessert. Pair with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.

FAQs:

1. Can I use frozen blackberries? Yes, frozen blackberries can be used. Thaw and drain them before use to remove excess water.
2. Is there a substitute for digestive biscuits? Graham crackers or any similar biscuit can be used as a substitute for digestive biscuits.
3. Can I make this dessert vegan? Yes, use vegan cream cheese, substitute the butter with a plant-based version, and use a dairy-free cream alternative for the pistachio layer.
4. How do I know when the blackberry layer is ready? The blackberry mixture should thicken and coat the back of a spoon. Once it reaches this consistency, it’s ready to be cooled and added to the bars.

Enjoy crafting these exquisite Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars, a dessert that promises a delightful blend of flavors and textures, sure to please any palate.