1 1/2cupsfinely ground Oreo cookie crumbsfrom about 19 Oreos
1/2cupfinely ground roasted unsalted pistachios
Filling
16ouncescream cheese
1cupconfectioners sugaror to taste
1tablespoonlemon juice
3/4tspvanilla extract
1/2tspalmond extractor to taste
1pinchsalt
1heaping cup pistachio cream
1tbsptahinior to taste
2/3cupcold heavy cream
Ganache
3/4cupmilk chocolate chips
3/4cupheavy cream
2tspscorn syrup
2tbspfinely chopped pistachiosfor garnish
Instructions
Line a 9x9-inch square pan with parchment paper, making sure there’s enough overhang on all sides so you can lift the bars out easily later.
For the crust:
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the butter, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring after each one, until the mixture is bubbling and the sugar is mostly dissolved, about 2 to 2 ½ minutes.
Stir in the almond extract, Oreo crumbs, and ground pistachios until everything is evenly moistened.
Pour the crust mixture into your prepared pan and press it down firmly and evenly, going slightly up the sides.
Pop it into the freezer to chill for 20 to 30 minutes until firm.
For the filling:
In a large bowl, beat together the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and lemon juice until smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes.
Add the vanilla, almond extract, and salt, and beat again until combined. Mix in the pistachio cream and tahini until smooth.
Finally, pour in the cold heavy cream and beat until the filling thickens and holds its shape, about 5 minutes.
Take the crust out of the freezer and pour the filling over it.
Spread it evenly with a spatula and tap the pan on the counter a few times to get rid of any air bubbles.
Return the pan to the freezer and let it chill until the filling feels mostly set, at least 3 hours.
For the ganache:
Place the chocolate chips in a bowl. In a microwave-safe measuring cup, heat the ¾ cup of cream and corn syrup until it just starts to bubble, about 2 ½ minutes.
Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for about 3 minutes, then gently stir until the ganache is smooth and glossy.
Take the bars out of the freezer and pour the ganache on top, spreading it into an even layer.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped pistachios over the top.
Put the bars back in the freezer for about 15 minutes so the ganache can set. (It will stay a little soft and creamy.)
To serve:
Remove the bars from the freezer and lift them out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang.
Place on a cutting board and peel off the parchment. Run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe it dry, and slice the bars, cleaning the knife between each cut.
Keep any extras stored in the freezer, and let them sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes before serving for the perfect creamy texture.