Pistachio Pie Bake (Watergate Salad Pie)

8 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 20 m Total: 35 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Pistachio Pie Bake (Watergate Salad Pie)
The pie crust adds such a delicious twist to the famous Pistachio Watergate Dessert—this baked version combines pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple, marshmallows, and pecans in a buttery pecan crust.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 1 - 3 ounce package Pistachio pudding
  • 1 (15 oz) can unsweetened crushed pineapple
  • 1 cup small marshmallows
  • 1/2 cup nuts, chopped
  • 1 large tub of Cool Whip; reserve one-half cup
  • Crust
  • 1 cup pecans chopped fine
  • 1 cup flour
  • 8 tbsp butter
  • 1 1/2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • Topping
  • Cool Whip
  • maraschino cherries
  • 1/2 cup pecans or pistachios

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Crust: Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add flour and mix until combined. Stir in the chopped pecans.
  3. Press crust mixture into a 9x13 pan and bake 15 to 20 minutes at 350 degrees until a light golden brown. Allow to cool completely.
  4. In a separate bowl combine the pistachio pudding, crushed pineapple (with juice), marshmallows, and 1/2 cup chopped nuts. Fold in the tub of Cool Whip until well combined.
  5. Pour the pudding mixture into the prepared cooled crust and spread evenly. Garnish the top with the remaining Cool Whip, pecans or pistachios, and maraschino cherries.
  6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours until set before serving.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my crust crumbly and falling apart?

A: Make sure the butter is softened (not melted) and that you cream it well with the sugar before adding flour. Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan before baking.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! This dessert actually improves when made a day ahead. The flavors meld together and it's easier to slice after chilling overnight.

Tips and Techniques

Let the crust cool completely before adding the pudding mixture, otherwise the Cool Whip will melt. For easiest serving, chill the dessert for at least 4 hours or overnight so it firms up and slices cleanly.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Cool Whip: homemade whipped cream (2 cups heavy cream whipped with 3 tablespoons sugar)
  • pistachio pudding: chocolate or vanilla instant pudding
  • butter: margarine
  • marshmallows: regular marshmallows cut into quarters

Equipment Needed

  • 9x13 baking pan
  • mixing bowls
  • electric mixer or hand mixer
  • rubber spatula

Historical Context

This recipe is a creative variation on Watergate Salad, the retro dessert that became famous during the 1970s. By adding a baked pecan crust, Southern cooks elevated the simple salad into a show-stopping dessert perfect for holidays and special occasions.