Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups
- Cold unsalted butter, cubed: ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks)
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup
- Shelled, finely chopped pistachios (divided): 1 cup
- Sweetened condensed milk: 1 (14 oz) can
- Large egg: 1
- Fresh blackberries: 1 cup
- Vanilla or pistachio extract: 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with parchment paper, leaving an overhang. In a medium bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and ½ cup of the chopped pistachios. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press firmly into the prepared baking dish.
- Step 2: Bake the crust for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden at the edges. While the crust is baking, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, the large egg, and the extract until fully combined.
- Step 3: Remove the crust from the oven. Carefully pour the condensed milk mixture evenly over the hot crust. Scatter the fresh blackberries over the filling, gently pressing them down slightly. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of chopped pistachios over the top.
- Step 4: Return the bars to the oven and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set (a toothpick inserted near the center should come out clean, but maybe slightly sticky).
- Step 5: Allow the bars to cool completely at room temperature before transferring them to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. Once firm, use the parchment overhang to lift the bars out of the pan and slice into squares before serving.
Notes
- Store leftover bars tightly covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, as chilling helps maintain the firm, fudgy texture these dream bars are known for.
- Avoid reheating these bars; if serving directly from the fridge, allow them to sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes to slightly soften the filling and intensify the flavor of the fruit.
- For a luxurious finish, serve the bars with a dollop of fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of finely grated orange or lime zest to brighten the sweetness of the condensed milk filling.
- Chef's Tip: When preparing the crust, be sure your butter is truly cold and cut it into the dry ingredients quickly; this prevents the crust from becoming tough and ensures that signature crumbly texture after baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American