Chocolate & Pistachio Bars (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 2 cups powdered digestive biscuits
02 - 100 grams unsalted butter, melted

→ Pistachio Filling

03 - 10 Kiri cheese cubes or 10 tbsp Philadelphia cream cheese
04 - 250 ml thick cream
05 - 1 cup powdered pistachios
06 - 1 tin sweetened condensed milk

→ Topping

07 - 160 grams plain milk chocolate
08 - 2 tsp vegetable oil
09 - Pistachios, sliced for garnish

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 180°C. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper, ensuring the paper hangs over the sides for easy removal later. Grease the paper.
02 - Mix powdered biscuits with melted butter until well combined. Press firmly into the base of the prepared baking pan, creating an even layer.
03 - In a food processor or blender, combine cheese cubes, thick cream, condensed milk, and powdered pistachios. Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
04 - Pour the pistachio mixture over the biscuit base and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until firm. If needed, cover with aluminum foil and use top heat to set the filling completely.
05 - Melt the milk chocolate in the microwave using 10-second intervals, stirring between each until completely smooth. Add vegetable oil and mix thoroughly.
06 - Pour the melted chocolate over the pistachio layer, spreading evenly. Sprinkle sliced pistachios on top for garnish.
07 - Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Remove from refrigerator about 1 hour before serving to allow the chocolate to soften slightly for the best texture and flavor experience.

# Notes:

01 - For added flavor, you can incorporate 1-2 teaspoons of orange blossom water or rose water to the pistachio filling
02 - The dessert is best enjoyed when the chocolate topping has softened slightly, creating a luscious mouthfeel when served