Recipe(tried): Pistachio Torte

This is a wonderful recipe that should satisfy a craving for pistachios. I've made it often to take to work and pistachio lovers always want the recipe.

PISTACHIO TORTE

Crust:
1 1/2 c flour
1 stick margarine plus 2 tbsp, softened
2 tbsp sugar
1/4 c chopped walnuts or pistachios

Mix well, press into bottom of an ungreased 9x13 pan; bake at 350 for 15 min. Cool.

First Layer:
8 oz softened cream cheese
1/3 c powdered sugar
1/2 of a 9 oz container Cool Whip

Mix cheese and sugar till smooth, then gently blend in Cool Whip. Spread over crust.

Second Layer:
2 small packages pistachio pudding, instant
2 1/2 c milk

Beat together till smooth, using whisk or mixer. Spread over cream cheese layer.

Topping: Spread the remaining 1/2 of the Cool Whip over the top. Sprinkle with chopped maraschino cherries and chopped nuts. Refrigerate.

I always use low-fat milk and non-fat Cool Whip, which doesn't seem to affect the overall taste.