Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? These St. Patrick’s Day Pistachio Brownies are the perfect festive treat for spring.
They bring a bright pop of green to your table. Your family will love the mix of rich chocolate and nutty flavor. It is a simple way to celebrate the holiday together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner because it is completely beginner-friendly. You do not need fancy equipment to make these layers. The dense brownie base feels like it came from a bakery.
The creamy pistachio frosting adds a lovely, soft texture. It is perfect for busy parents who want a special holiday dessert. These brownies are budget-friendly and use simple pantry staples.
Simple Cooking Steps
Making these brownies is a fun and easy afternoon project. You start with a basic one-bowl chocolate batter. The shortcut pudding frosting saves you so much time.
Even if you have never made a layered dessert, you can do this. The steps are straightforward and very rewarding. Your kitchen will smell like warm chocolate and sweet vanilla.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your kitchen cabinets.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 drops green food coloring
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch square baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined.
- Spread the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and instant pistachio pudding mix.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Add green food coloring if a more vibrant color is desired.
- Spread the pistachio frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top and chill for 30 minutes before slicing into 16 squares.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these St. Patrick’s Day Pistachio Brownies on a festive white platter. The green frosting really stands out against the dark chocolate. They look beautiful at any holiday gathering or school party.
Pair a square with a cold glass of milk for the kids. For the adults, these are wonderful with a hot cup of coffee. Set the table with festive napkins to make it a real celebration.
How to Store Leftovers
Keep these brownies in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and fudgy for up to five days. The frosting holds its shape best when kept cool.
If you want to make them ahead, bake the base the night before. Frost them the next morning for the freshest taste. This is a great way to reduce holiday stress.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip cooling the brownies or the frosting will melt.
- Use room temperature butter for the smoothest frosting texture.
- Wipe your knife between slices to get perfectly clean edges.
- Crush the pistachios in a sealed bag to keep your counters clean.
- Add an extra drop of food coloring for a bolder green look.
- Double the recipe for a larger crowd and use a 9×13 pan.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid over-baking.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the nuts for white chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
- Add a drop of mint extract for a minty chocolate flavor.
- Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
- Top with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a restaurant-style look.
Common Questions
Can I use cook-and-serve pudding mix?
No, you must use instant pudding mix for the frosting. The instant version thickens without heat. This gives the frosting its light and fluffy texture.
Will kids like the pistachio flavor?
Yes, the pistachio flavor is very mild and sweet. It tastes mostly like creamy vanilla with a hint of nuttiness. Most kids find the green color very exciting!
I hope these festive brownies bring a little luck and a lot of joy to your home this spring. They are such a fun way to celebrate with the people you love. Happy baking!
— Lidia
St. Patrick's Day Pistachio Brownies
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large egg s
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all -purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon sal t
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 package (3.4 oz) instant pistachio pudding mix
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 drops green food coloring
- 1/4 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8x8 inch square baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in cocoa powder, flour, salt, and baking powder until just combined.
- Spread the brownie batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Allow brownies to cool completely in the pan.
- In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and instant pistachio pudding mix.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and milk, beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Add green food coloring if a more vibrant color is desired.
- Spread the pistachio frosting evenly over the cooled brownies.
- Sprinkle chopped pistachios over the top and chill for 30 minutes before slicing into 16 squares.
