Get ready to indulge in a world of rich, creamy, and utterly irresistible desserts featuring the star ingredient: pistachio! These 18 show-stopping sweet treats will transport you to a realm of pure bliss. From classic baklava to innovative cheesecakes and truffles, each recipe showcases the unique nutty flavor and velvety texture that pistachios bring to the table.
Whether you’re in the mood for something elegant and sophisticated or playful and whimsical, there’s a creamy pistachio dessert on this list that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. So go ahead, treat yourself, and discover the magic of pistachios in these delectable desserts!
Pistachio Baklava with Honey Drizzle
Pistachio Baklava with Honey Drizzle: A sweet and nutty treat that combines crispy phyllo layers with the richness of pistachios and a hint of honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1 cup of chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon of honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Unroll phyllo dough and cut into desired size.
3. In a bowl, mix together pistachios, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom.
4. Layer phyllo dough with the pistachio mixture, ending with a layer of phyllo on top.
5. Brush melted butter over the top layer of phyllo.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Allow to cool before drizzling with honey.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Pistachio Pudding Parfait
This rich and creamy dessert combines the sweetness of vanilla pudding with the nutty flavor of pistachios, layered with fresh berries and crunchy cookies. Perfect for a special occasion or a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 cup mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
– 6-8 cookies (such as wafers or ladyfingers)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together cream, milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Let pudding cool slightly before stirring in chopped pistachios.
5. Layer pudding with mixed berries and cookies in small glasses or parfaits.
6. Chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pistachio Rosewater Cheesecake
This cheesecake combines the nutty flavor of pistachios with the subtle sweetness of rosewater, creating a unique and exotic dessert perfect for special occasions.
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 pistachio paste (or chopped pistachios)
– 1 tbsp rosewater
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix crust ingredients and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in pistachio paste and rosewater.
5. Pour cheesecake batter into the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
7. Let cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Pistachio and White Chocolate Truffles
These bite-sized treats combine the nutty flavor of pistachios with the creamy richness of white chocolate, perfect for a sweet indulgence or a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shelled pistachios
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a food processor, grind the pistachios into a fine powder.
2. In a large bowl, combine the pistachio powder, confectioners’ sugar, and softened butter. Mix until well combined.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
4. Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up.
5. Melt the white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Roll the chilled pistachio mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
7. Dip each ball into the melted white chocolate, coating completely.
8. Place the coated truffles on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None required, as these treats are best served chilled.
Pistachio Cardamom Ice Cream
A unique and exotic ice cream flavor combination that will transport you to the spice markets of India. This recipe combines the nutty sweetness of pistachios with the warm, aromatic flavors of cardamom.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 cup shelled pistachios
– 1 tablespoon ground cardamom
– 1 teaspoon 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 melted butter, pistachios, and cardamom. Let steep for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Discard solids.
4. Chill mixture in refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Once chilled, churn ice cream base in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions.
6. During the last 2 minutes of churning, add vanilla extract.
7. Transfer churned ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes + chilling time
Pistachio Crème Brûlée
This creamy dessert gets a boost of flavor and texture from the addition of pistachios, making it a unique and delicious treat.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks and sugar until pale.
3. Add heavy cream, pistachios, and vanilla extract; whisk until combined.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Strain mixture into a clean bowl to remove any cooked egg bits.
6. Pour into 4-6 ramekins or small baking dishes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set.
8. Remove from oven and let cool to room temperature.
9. Just before serving, sprinkle a layer of sugar on top and caramelize with a kitchen torch or under the broiler.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pistachio Macarons with Raspberry Filling
These delicate French macarons are infused with the nutty flavor of pistachios and paired with a sweet-tart raspberry filling, making for a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
For the shells:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) almond flour
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 cup (30g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pistachio extract
– Food coloring (green)
For the filling:
– 1 cup (120g) fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together almond flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Gradually add granulated sugar, salt, and pistachio extract. Fold in food coloring to achieve the desired green hue.
4. Sift the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients and gently fold until smooth.
5. Pipe small circles onto prepared baking sheet.
6. Tap the baking sheet gently to remove air bubbles. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until firm and lightly golden.
8. Allow shells to cool completely before filling with raspberry mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pistachio and Almond Baklava Rolls
A delicious twist on traditional baklava, these rolls combine crunchy pistachios and almonds with sweet honey and flaky phyllo dough.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of phyllo dough (usually found in the freezer section)
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 teaspoon orange blossom water (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Thaw phyllo dough according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix together pistachios, almonds, honey, sugar, cinnamon, and cardamom.
4. Layer 2 sheets of phyllo dough on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the nut mixture along the center of each sheet.
5. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Repeat process until all ingredients are used, leaving some space between each roll.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pistachio Coconut Energy Balls
A no-bake treat that combines the nutritious benefits of pistachios and coconut with a boost of energy-boosting oats and honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the oats, pistachios, and coconut.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the honey until it’s smooth and runny.
3. Pour the warm honey over the oat mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Stir in the chia seeds and salt.
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the mixture to set.
6. Once set, use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cooking Time: None! These energy balls are no-bake and ready in just a few minutes of preparation.
Enjoy these bite-sized treats as a quick pick-me-up whenever you need an energy boost!
Pistachio Mousse with Dark Chocolate Shavings
This decadent dessert combines the creamy richness of pistachio mousse with the deep, velvety smoothness of dark chocolate shavings. A perfect treat for special occasions or a indulgent pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the confectioners’ sugar, pistachios, and butter; continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Melt the dark chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream mixture until well combined.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and garnish with dark chocolate shavings.
Cooking Time: None
Pistachio and Orange Blossom Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the subtle nutty taste of pistachios and the sweet, floral aroma of orange blossom water. Perfect for special occasions or as a delightful afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (30g) pistachio meal or finely ground pistachios
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon orange blossom water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 8-inch (20cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and pistachio meal.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, baking powder, and orange blossom water.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pistachio Tiramisu with Mascarpone
A creamy and nutty twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Pistachio Tiramisu with Mascarpone is a show-stopping treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup pistachio meal or finely ground pistachios
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the coffee and mascarpone cheese until smooth.
2. Add the softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, pistachio meal, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. 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.
4. In a large serving dish, create a layer of ladyfingers. You may need to trim them to fit the dish.
5. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
6. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of mascarpone on top.
7. Dust with powdered sugar and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None required, as this dessert is best served chilled.
Pistachio and Date Stuffed Cookies
These chewy cookies are packed with a sweet and nutty surprise – a date and pistachio filling that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a snack or dessert, these cookies are easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped dates, pitted
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in chopped dates and pistachios.
7. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pistachio Panna Cotta with Berry Compote
This elegant dessert combines the creamy richness of panna cotta with the sweetness of berries, all tied together with a nutty pistachio flavor. Perfect for special occasions or a relaxing evening treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and butter. 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 vanilla extract and chopped pistachios. Let cool slightly.
3. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Just before serving, top each panna cotta with a spoonful of mixed berries and a sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (plus chilling time)
Pistachio and Saffron Rice Pudding
Elevate your dessert game with this exotic rice pudding infused with the subtle flavors of pistachios and saffron. This creamy treat is perfect for special occasions or as a unique addition to your holiday menu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the cooked rice, soaked saffron, and vanilla extract to the milk mixture. Stir until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in chopped pistachios.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Pistachio Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with the perfect combination of crunchy pistachios and rich chocolate chips. These soft-baked treats are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup chopped pistachios
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Stir in pistachios and chocolate chips.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Pistachio and Fig Galette
This elegant galette is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring caramelized figs and crunchy pistachios. It’s an ideal dessert for a dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh figs
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
2. In a small bowl, mix together figs, pistachios, honey, and salt.
3. Arrange the fig-pistachio mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
5. Brush the crust with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pistachio and Honey Semolina Cake
This moist and flavorful cake combines the nutty goodness of pistachios with the warmth of honey, perfect for a special occasion or everyday treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup semolina flour
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
– 2 tablespoons honey
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan.
2. Whisk together semolina flour, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, and honey until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in chopped pistachios.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the delightful world of creamy pistachio desserts with these irresistible recipes. From classic treats like baklava and crème brûlée to innovative creations like pistachio and rosewater cheesecake, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique flavor combinations like pistachio and white chocolate truffles or pistachio and orange blossom cake. Impress your friends and family with show-stopping desserts like pistachio macarons or tiramisu. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, these 18 creamy pistachio dessert recipes will guide you in creating unforgettable sweet treats.
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