Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy desserts featuring the star of the show: the humble pistachio. From classic baklava to innovative ice cream flavors, these 20 recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of this nutty ingredient. Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat to satisfy your cravings or a unique dessert to impress your friends, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of creamy pistachio desserts, featuring everything from decadent cheesecakes and panna cotta to light and airy mousse. And with flavors ranging from honeyed sweetness to bold and spicy notes, there’s something for every taste bud.
So sit back, grab a spoon, and get ready to indulge in the creamiest, most divine pistachio desserts you’ve ever tasted!
Pistachio Baklava with Honey Drizzle
Pistachio Baklava with Honey Drizzle Recipe
A classic Middle Eastern dessert gets a boost of flavor and texture with the addition of crunchy pistachios and a drizzle of warm honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 package phyllo dough (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, mix together pistachios, sugar, flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the pistachio mixture, ending with a layer of phyllo on top.
5. Drizzle melted butter over the top layer of phyllo.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
7. While baklava is baking, warm honey in a small saucepan over low heat.
8. Remove baklava from oven and drizzle with warmed honey.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream
This rich and creamy ice cream is infused with the subtle nutty flavor of pistachios, making it a unique and delicious treat for any occasion. With only a few ingredients, you can create this indulgent dessert in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, whole milk, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pistachios and vanilla extract. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and store in the freezer.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (heating the mixture) + chilling time
Pistachio and White Chocolate Cheesecake
This elegant dessert combines the creamy richness of cheesecake with the vibrant flavor of pistachios and the sweetness of white chocolate. Perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in chopped pistachios and white chocolate chips.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until center is set.
7. Allow to cool completely before refrigerating.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pistachio Cardamom Rice Pudding
Pistachio Cardamom Rice Pudding Recipe
A creamy and aromatic dessert that combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with the warm, spicy essence of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, cardamom, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pistachios and butter until melted.
5. Let the pudding cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
This creamy rice pudding is a perfect dessert for any occasion, with the added flavors of cardamom and pistachios giving it an exotic twist.
Pistachio Rosewater Panna Cotta
Elevate your dessert game with this elegant and fragrant panna cotta infused with the subtle flavors of pistachio and rosewater. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/2 cup pistachio puree (see note)
– 2 tbsp rosewater
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in pistachio puree, rosewater, and vanilla extract. Let it steep for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture into a clean bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Before serving, spoon the panna cotta into individual serving cups or glasses.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pistachio Crème Brûlée
Elevate your dessert game with this unique and decadent Pistachio Crème Brûlée. The combination of creamy pistachio custard, caramelized sugar, and crunchy biscotti is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pistachio paste or finely ground pistachios
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
– Freshly grated nutmeg, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, sugar, pistachio paste, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until sugar has dissolved and mixture is hot but not boiling.
4. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes.
5. Whisk in egg yolks and vanilla extract.
6. Pour into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
8. Let cool, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
9. Just before serving, sprinkle a thin layer of sugar over the top of each ramekin.
10. Caramelize the sugar with a kitchen torch or under broiler.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pistachio Chocolate Truffles
Pistachio Chocolate Truffles Recipe
Experience the perfect harmony of rich chocolate and nutty pistachios with these bite-sized treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) confectioners’ sugar
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, melt the chocolate chips.
2. Stir in the chopped pistachios, butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the confectioners’ sugar and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the melted chocolate mixture and stir until smooth.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Refrigerate for an additional 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Just chill and serve.
Pistachio and Coconut Macaroons
These chewy macaroons are infused with the nutty flavor of pistachios and the creamy richness of coconut. Perfect for a sweet treat or as a unique dessert to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 large egg white, at room temperature
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix pistachios, sweetened condensed milk, egg white, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on top.
7. Allow macaroons to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio Mousse with Dark Chocolate Shavings
Elevate your dessert game with this luxurious and easy-to-make pistachio mousse, topped with rich dark chocolate shavings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ounce high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely grated
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened butter, pistachios, egg whites, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Fold the whipped cream into the pistachio mixture until fully incorporated.
4. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
5. Top with grated dark chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: None! Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Pistachio Tiramisu with Ladyfingers
A creamy and nutty twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Pistachio Tiramisu with Ladyfingers is sure to delight. With its velvety pistachio cream and crunchy ladyfinger base, this dessert is perfect for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup pistachio paste or chopped pistachios
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the coffee and sugar; stir until sugar is dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, pistachio paste or chopped pistachios, and butter; mix until smooth.
4. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a serving dish, followed by a layer of the pistachio cream, and repeat.
5. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as this dessert is assembled rather than cooked.
Pistachio Buttercream Frosted Cupcakes
Elevate your cupcake game with these moist vanilla cupcakes topped with a creamy pistachio buttercream frosting. The perfect treat for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup pistachio meal or finely ground pistachios
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients; stir until just combined.
5. Fold in pistachio meal or ground pistachios.
6. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Frosting:
1. Beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1 3/4 cups powdered sugar until smooth.
2. Add 2 teaspoons pistachio extract and mix well.
3. Adjust consistency as needed with milk or powdered sugar.
Pistachio and Almond Biscotti
Pistachio and Almond Biscotti Recipe
Introduction
Elevate your coffee break with these crunchy, nutty biscotti infused with the flavors of pistachios and almonds.
Ingredients
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Add pistachios, almonds, and vanilla extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Shape into 2 logs (about 12 inches each). Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between logs.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Reduce temperature to 325°F (165°C).
8. Slice into 1/2-inch thick slices. Lay slices flat on baking sheet, leaving space between each biscotti.
9. Bake for an additional 12-15 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time is approximately 45-50 minutes.
Pistachio-Stuffed Dates with Sea Salt
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of dates with the crunch and flavor of pistachios.
Ingredients:
– 12 pitted Medjool dates
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Stuff each date with about 1 tablespoon of chopped pistachios.
3. Drizzle the dates with honey, then sprinkle with sea salt.
4. Place the stuffed dates on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the dates are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pistachio and Orange Blossom Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the subtle sweetness of orange blossom water and the nutty flavor of pistachios. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic evening, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1/4 cup (30g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon orange blossom water
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped pistachios
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, and orange blossom water.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped pistachios.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pistachio Pudding Parfait with Fresh Berries
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and refreshing parfait, featuring the rich flavor of pistachios and the sweetness of fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pistachio pudding mix
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Whipped cream and chopped pistachios for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the pudding mix, milk, heavy cream, and melted butter until smooth.
2. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the pudding to set.
3. Layer the chilled pudding in small glasses or parfait dishes with fresh berries.
4. Repeat the layering process one more time, finishing with a layer of pudding on top.
5. Garnish with whipped cream and chopped pistachios, if desired.
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Pistachio Cannoli with Ricotta Filling
Experience the classic Italian dessert with a delicious twist – crunchy pistachio shells filled with creamy ricotta goodness!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup finely chopped pistachios
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add whole milk ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, and chopped pistachios; mix until smooth.
4. Fry shells according to package instructions or make your own by frying flour mixture in hot oil (350°F/175°C) for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Allow shells to cool before filling with the ricotta mixture.
6. Fill shells just before serving, as they are best consumed fresh.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pistachio and Saffron Kulfi
Combine the richness of pistachios with the subtle warmth of saffron to create a unique and delicious kulfi, a traditional Indian-style ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and butter. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the mixture simmers.
2. Remove from heat and stir in saffron mixture and chopped pistachios. Let it cool to room temperature.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Once chilled, pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Once frozen, scoop and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including chilling time)
Pistachio Shortbread Cookies
These buttery shortbread cookies get a unique flavor boost from the addition of finely ground pistachios, creating a sweet and nutty treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon finely ground pistachios
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the butter, sugar, and flour until smooth.
3. Stir in the pistachios and salt until well combined.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio and Fig Galette
This galette combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with the sweetness of figs, perfect for a unique dessert or snack. The flaky pastry crust adds a satisfying crunch to this sweet and savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1/2 cup fig jam or preserves
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt. Add butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the flour mixture until coarse crumbs form.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
4. Spread fig jam over center of dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle with pistachios.
5. Fold edges of dough up over filling, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush egg wash over crust and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pistachio Marzipan Stuffed Pastries
Pistachio Marzipan Stuffed Pastries Recipe
Treat your taste buds to the sweet and nutty combination of pistachios and marzipan, perfectly wrapped in flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 cup pistachios, chopped
– 1/2 cup marzipan, crumbled
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 3-inch squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix together chopped pistachios and crumbled marzipan. Place a spoonful of the mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/4-inch border around the edges.
4. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the creamy goodness of pistachios with these 20 mouthwatering dessert recipes! From classic baklava and cheesecake to creative ice cream flavors and pudding parfaits, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Try your hand at making creamy pistachio ice cream or pistachio cardamom rice pudding. Or, go all out with exotic flavors like pistachio rosewater panna cotta or pistachio saffron kulfi. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes are sure to satisfy!