Creating Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars can be a delightful endeavor. Follow these simple steps to achieve dessert perfection:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and salt. Gradually mix in the flour until combined.
3. Press the Crust: Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of the dish evenly and firmly.
4. Bake the Crust: Place the crust in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes until lightly golden.
5. Make the Blackberry Filling: While the crust is baking, in a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the blackberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Cook until the mixture starts to thicken and bubble. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Spread the Filling: Once the blackberry filling is ready, remove it from the heat. Evenly spread the blackberry mixture over the baked crust.
7. Prepare the Pistachio Topping: In a small bowl, combine the chopped pistachios, melted butter, brown sugar, and pinch of salt. Mix until the pistachios are coated.
8. Add the Topping: Sprinkle the pistachio mixture evenly over the blackberry layer.
9. Bake Again: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the topping is golden.
10. Cool and Set: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow the bars to cool completely in the pan. Refrigerate for about 1 hour to ensure setting before slicing.

By following these steps, you’ll create delicious Blackberry Pistachio Dream Bars that will leave everyone wanting more!