Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe

If you are a dessert lover craving something both luscious and unique, this Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe is an absolute dream come true. It layers the classic, indulgent creaminess of traditional tiramisu with a rich, nutty pistachio twist that makes every bite utterly unforgettable. Combining coffee-soaked sponge fingers with a velvety mascarpone and pistachio cream, this dessert balances flavors and textures in a way that feels both elegant and wonderfully comforting. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself, this Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe is a charming celebration of smooth, nutty decadence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe is refreshingly simple, yet each component plays a critical role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the strong coffee that gently soaks the sponge fingers to the rich mascarpone and luscious pistachio cream, every item is essential in creating the perfect balance between creamy and nutty heaven.

• 100 ml strong coffee: Brewed strong to soak the sponge fingers just right, giving that signature coffee flavor without overpowering the pistachio.
• 200 g savoiardi sponge fingers: These delicate biscuits soak up the coffee wonderfully without falling apart, providing the perfect cake layer.
• 300 ml double cream: Whipped to soft peaks for that light, airy texture in the cream layers.
• 75 g icing sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the nutty and tangy elements.
• 250 g mascarpone: The rich and creamy base of traditional tiramisu, grounding the pistachio flavors beautifully.
• 100 g pistachio cream (plus extra to decorate): This is your jackpot ingredient, infusing every bite with authentic pistachio goodness.
• Chopped pistachios (to decorate): Adds crunch and a pop of vibrant green, making the dessert as pretty as it is tasty.

How to Make Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe

Step 1: Whip and Mix the Cream

Begin by whisking the double cream and icing sugar together in a large mixing bowl until soft peaks form—this airy base is what makes the tiramisu melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Then, beat together mascarpone and pistachio cream until smooth and gently fold the mascarpone mixture into your whipped cream until everything is just combined. This gives you that dreamy pistachio mascarpone layer that’s the heart of the dessert.

Step 2: Soak the Sponge Fingers

Pour the strong coffee into a shallow dish so you can dip your savoiardi sponge fingers quickly but evenly. Allow each sponge to soak for just a couple of seconds on each side, so they soak up flavor without becoming soggy. Gently arrange the soaked sponge fingers in an even layer across the base of your chosen dish—something around 9 x 13 inches works beautifully for perfect layering.

Step 3: Layer the Pistachio Cream and Sponge

Spread a generous layer of the luscious pistachio cream over the coffee-soaked sponge fingers, then repeat with another soaked sponge layer and pistachio cream. Keep layering until all the sponge fingers are used, finishing off with a final layer of pistachio cream on top. The number of layers depends on your dish size, but layering is what makes this dessert so dramatically delightful in every forkful.

Step 4: Decorate and Chill

Now comes the fun and artistic part—take extra pistachio cream and spoon it into a disposable piping bag or a sandwich bag with a small corner snipped off. Pipe lines across the top of your tiramisu, then use a toothpick to drag through the lines in the opposite direction so you get a pretty feathered pattern. Cover the dish and chill it in the fridge for at least four hours, but overnight resting will take the flavors to heavenly heights.

Step 5: Finish with a Crunch

Just before serving, remove the tiramisu from the fridge for about 20 minutes so it isn’t too cold and stiff, then sprinkle with chopped pistachios. These add both a delightful crunch and a vibrant finish that really showcases the pistachio magic in this recipe. Now you’re ready to enjoy every decadent, nutty spoonful.

How to Serve Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe

Garnishes

Chopped pistachios or a light dusting of matcha powder bring out the green hues wonderfully and add texture that contrasts with the creaminess. You can also consider a few delicate edible flower petals for an elegant presentation that elevates the experience.

Side Dishes

This Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe pairs beautifully with a light, fresh fruit salad or a simple glass of dessert wine such as Moscato d’Asti. A cup of freshly brewed espresso also complements the coffee notes perfectly, rounding out the rich dessert without overwhelming it.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in clear glasses or mini trifle bowls so the beautiful green layers shine through. You could even try layering it in martini glasses for a chic party treat. A drizzle of white chocolate or a few whole pistachios on top can add that extra wow factor for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dessert keeps really well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to maintain moisture and prevent it absorbing any fridge odors. The pistachio flavor actually deepens with a day or two of resting, making leftovers just as enjoyable, if not better.

Freezing

While tiramisu isn’t always freezer-friendly due to its creamy texture, this Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe can be frozen if needed. Cover it carefully with a layer of plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

This dessert is best enjoyed chilled and does not require reheating. Simply allow it to warm slightly at room temperature for about 20 minutes to soften the cream before serving. Heating will affect the delicate texture and should be avoided.

FAQs

Can I use regular tiramisu cream instead of pistachio cream?

You certainly can, but swapping pistachio cream for the traditional layer is what makes this recipe unique and special. If you want the classic tiramisu flavor, you can omit the pistachio cream and adjust sweetness accordingly.

Is it necessary to use strong coffee for soaking the sponge fingers?

Strong coffee is recommended to ensure the tiramisu has a robust flavor that stands up against the creamy layers. Using weak coffee may result in a milder taste that might fall flat next to the rich pistachio cream.

Can I substitute mascarpone with cream cheese?

Mascarpone gives the tiramisu its signature creamy and slightly tangy profile, which cream cheese can mimic but with a denser texture and sharper flavor. If using cream cheese, blend it well and consider adding a bit of heavy cream to lighten the mixture.

How long should I chill the Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe?

Chilling for at least 4 hours is essential for the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly. Overnight chilling is ideal and highly recommended for the best taste and texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free sponge fingers or ladyfingers to make this Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe suitable for gluten-free diets without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the way this Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe combines the familiar comfort of classic tiramisu with the unexpected nutty elegance of pistachio. Every step, from the rich cream to the coffee-soaked sponge, builds a dessert that is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. I absolutely encourage you to try making this at home—it’s a show-stopper that brightens any occasion and gifts warm, delicious memories with every bite.

Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe

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This Pistachio Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, featuring layers of coffee-soaked savoiardi biscuits and a luscious pistachio mascarpone cream. Perfectly creamy with a nutty pistachio flavor and a beautiful feathered pistachio paste topping, this no-bake dessert requires minimal prep and at least 4 hours of chilling for the flavors to meld. Ideal for gatherings or a special treat.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes (includes at least 4 hours chilling time)
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Coffee and Sponge Layer

• 100 ml strong coffee
• 200 g savoiardi sponge fingers

Pistachio Cream

• 300 ml double cream
• 75 g icing sugar
• 250 g mascarpone cheese
• 100 g pistachio cream (plus extra for decorating)

Decoration

• Chopped pistachios (to decorate)

Instructions

1. Whip the cream and prepare pistachio mascarpone: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the double cream and icing sugar together until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone and pistachio cream until smooth. Gently fold the mascarpone-pistachio mixture into the whipped cream until fully combined but still light and airy.
2. Soak savoiardi biscuits: Pour the strong coffee into a shallow dish. Quickly dip each savoiardi sponge finger into the coffee for a couple of seconds on each side just to absorb the flavor without becoming soggy. Arrange an even layer of soaked sponge fingers at the base of a medium-sized dish approximately 9 x 13 inches.
3. Layer pistachio cream and sponge fingers: Carefully spread a layer of the pistachio cream mixture over the sponge layer. Add another layer of coffee-soaked sponge fingers on top, then spread more pistachio cream. Continue layering until all the sponge fingers are used, finishing with a thick layer of pistachio cream on top. The number of layers depends on your dish size and shape.
4. Decorate the tiramisu: Spoon extra pistachio paste into a piping bag or sandwich bag fitted with a small cut tip. Pipe lines across the top of the tiramisu. Using a toothpick, drag through the lines in the opposite direction to create a feathered pattern. Cover the dish with cling film and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the dessert set and flavors meld.
5. Serve: Remove the tiramisu from the fridge about 20 minutes before serving to soften slightly. Sprinkle with chopped pistachios for added texture and a beautiful finish. Enjoy your creamy, nutty pistachio tiramisu!

Notes

• Ensure the coffee is strong and cooled before dipping the savoiardi to avoid soggy biscuits.
• Use good quality pistachio cream for the best flavor; you can find it in gourmet stores or online.
• This dessert benefits from chilling overnight to develop flavor and texture.
• If you don’t have a piping bag, a sandwich bag with a tiny corner cut off works just as well for decorating.
• For a nut-free variation, omit the pistachio cream and substitute with plain mascarpone cream.