If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that perfectly balances the nutty richness of brown butter with the floral notes of honey, look no further than these Brown Butter and Honey Pistachio Cookie Bars. They are chewy, slightly crispy on the edges, and packed with delightful pistachio crunch. These bars are not just a dessert; they are an experience. The combination of flavors will have your taste buds dancing and your friends begging for the recipe.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This recipe is a keeper for several reasons. First, the brown butter adds a depth of flavor that elevates these cookie bars from ordinary to extraordinary. Second, the addition of honey brings a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the nuttiness of pistachios. Lastly, these cookie bars are incredibly easy to make, requiring just one bowl and minimal clean-up, making them perfect for a quick baking session. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just treating yourself, these bars will surely impress.
Gather These Ingredients
To whip up these delicious Brown Butter and Honey Pistachio Cookie Bars, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted until lightly browned
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 3 1/2 tablespoons Don Victor Honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1 1/4 teaspoons flaky sea salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup shelled salted pistachios, roughly chopped
Equipment & Tools
Before you start baking, gather the following equipment and tools:
- Mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk or spatula: To mix the batter perfectly.
- 8×8 inch baking pan: To bake the cookie bars to perfection.
- Parchment paper: For easy removal of the bars from the pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure the right proportions.
Brown Butter and Honey Pistachio Cookie Bars: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to make your Brown Butter and Honey Pistachio Cookie Bars:
Step 1: Brown the Butter
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir frequently until it turns a lovely golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it! Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, add the warm brown butter, brown sugar, and honey. Whisk together until well combined. The warmth of the butter will help dissolve the sugar.
Step 3: Add the Eggs
Add in the large egg and the egg yolk to the mixture, whisking until fully incorporated. This will add richness and moisture to your cookie bars.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Sprinkle the flaky sea salt and all-purpose flour over the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the flour into the mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Fold in the Pistachios
Gently fold in the chopped pistachios, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 6: Prepare the Baking Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
Step 7: Bake the Cookie Bars
Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cookie bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into bars.
Allergy-Friendly Swaps
If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, here are some swaps you can consider:
- Dairy-free option: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative in place of unsalted butter.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures 1:1.
- A nut-free option: Omit the pistachios and replace them with sunflower seeds for crunch.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Be attentive while browning the butter; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
- For added flavor, consider toasting the pistachios before adding them to the batter.
- Experiment with different types of honey to discover new flavor profiles.
- These cookie bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead treat!
Make Ahead Like a Pro
If you want to plan ahead, here are a few tips:
You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just let it come to room temperature before spreading it in the baking pan and baking as directed. Alternatively, you can bake the bars and freeze them for up to a month. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and indulge!
Ask & Learn
Can I use different nuts instead of pistachios?
Absolutely! Almonds, walnuts, or pecans can be great substitutions if you prefer a different nut flavor.
How do I know when the cookie bars are done baking?
Check for a light golden color around the edges and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Definitely! Chocolate chips would add a wonderful contrast to the nutty and sweet flavors.
What can I serve with these cookie bars?
These cookie bars pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert.
Healthy-ish Favorites
If you love wholesome treats, check out these favorites:
Serve & Enjoy
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Brown Butter and Honey Pistachio Cookie Bars, it’s time to relish the fruits of your labor. Serve these delightful bars warm or at room temperature. Whether you share them with friends and family or keep them all to yourself, each bite will be a testament to your baking prowess. Enjoy the sweet, nutty goodness and the lovely compliments that come your way!
With rich flavors and a delightful crunch, these Brown Butter and Honey Pistachio Cookie Bars are sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Happy baking!
Brown Butter and Honey Pistachio Cookie Bars
Ingredients
- 10 tablespoons unsalted butter melted until lightly browned
- 1 cup light brown sugar packed
- 3.5 tablespoons Don Victor Honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1.25 teaspoons flaky sea salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.25 cup shelled salted pistachios roughly chopped
Instructions
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir frequently until it turns a lovely golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Be careful not to burn it! Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- In a mixing bowl, add the warm brown butter, brown sugar, and honey. Whisk together until well combined. The warmth of the butter will help dissolve the sugar.
- Add in the large egg and the egg yolk to the mixture, whisking until fully incorporated. This will add richness and moisture to your cookie bars.
- Sprinkle the flaky sea salt and all-purpose flour over the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the flour into the mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Gently fold in the chopped pistachios, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8x8 inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some overhang for easy removal later.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the cookie bars cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Lift them out using the parchment paper and let them cool completely on a wire rack before slicing into bars.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or spatula
- 8x8 inch baking pan
- Parchment Paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- Be attentive while browning the butter; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly.
- For added flavor, consider toasting the pistachios before adding them to the batter.
- Experiment with different types of honey to discover new flavor profiles.
- These cookie bars can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a great make-ahead treat!
