Pistachio cream recipe lovers, this one’s for you! This deliciously smooth, nutty, and creamy spread is surprisingly easy to make at home with just a handful of ingredients. Inspired by the classic Italian Crema al Pistacchio, this recipe is perfect for spreading on toast, filling cakes, or adding a luscious touch to your favorite desserts. Whether you’re a kitchen rookie or a seasoned baker, this step-by-step guide will have you whipping up silky, dreamy pistachio cream that’s sure to impress.
What Is Pistachio Cream?
If you’re searching for the perfect pistachio cream recipe, you’ve come to the right place! Pistachio cream is a luscious, smooth spread crafted from ground pistachios, often combined with white chocolate, milk, and butter for richness. This traditional Italian treat, also called Crema al Pistacchio, is ideal for spreading on toast, filling cakes, or drizzling over desserts.
Pistachio cream is a silky, nutty spread crafted from ground pistachios, white chocolate, milk, and butter. It’s a star in many pistachio cream recipes, beloved for its rich texture and subtle sweetness. Spread it on toast, swirl it through cakes, or use it in pies—the possibilities are endless! Curious about other creative creamy desserts? Try our homemade Breast Milk Ice Cream for a truly unique treat.
Which Pistachios to Use?
For the best pistachio cream recipe, always choose raw, unsalted, and shelled pistachios. Bright green varieties from the US, Turkey, or Iran work particularly well, with Sicilian pistachios considered the gold standard for authentic flavors. The richness and color of your cream depend significantly on the quality and freshness of these nuts, so skip salted or heavily roasted options when following your favorite pistachio cream recipes. If you’re feeling adventurous, Persian pistachios give an extra vibrant green hue—perfect for any pistachio cream cake recipe or spread.
Melt That Chocolate
Quality chocolate makes every recipe for pistachio cream shine! Use real white chocolate with cocoa butter (not compound or melts) for a smooth, rich result. Gently melt it alongside milk and butter over low heat to avoid burning—this technique works wonders whether you’re making a classic pistachio cream cake recipe or a luxurious pistachio cream pie recipe. The melted chocolate blends perfectly with your freshly made pistachio paste, resulting in a pistachio crea m recipe that’s irresistibly creamy.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups raw, unsalted pistachios shelled (125g)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 30g
- 3/4 cup whole milk or cream 190ml, divided
- 4 oz good white chocolate chopped (about 1 cup)
- 2 tablespoons confectioner’s sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt (Diamond Crystal)
How to Make Pistachio Cream (Step by Step)
1- Fill a medium saucepan with water and bring it to a rolling boil. Drop in the shelled pistachios and let them cook for about 3 minutes. Drain immediately and spread them onto a clean kitchen towel.
2- Fold the towel over the nuts and gently rub them to loosen their skins. Remove and discard the skins, then be sure the pistachios are completely dry before moving on. Place them into a blender or food processor.
3- In a small heatproof bowl, combine the butter and ¼ cup of milk. Warm in the microwave in 20-second intervals until the butter has melted and the milk is hot. Add the white chocolate and stir until smooth. If needed, microwave for another 10–15 seconds to fully melt. (This step can also be done over low heat in a small pan on the stove.)
4- Add powdered sugar and a pinch of salt to the blender with the pistachios. Pour in the warm white chocolate mixture. Blend on medium speed until a thick paste forms.
5- Gradually pour in the remaining milk, a little at a time, until you reach your preferred consistency. (You may not need the entire ½ cup. Keep in mind that the cream thickens more as it cools.) Pause to scrape down the sides of the blender 3–4 times. Finish by blending on high for 30–60 seconds until silky smooth.
6- Transfer the pistachio cream into a sealed jar or container and store in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.
Italian-style Pistachio Cream (Homemade)
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups raw unsalted pistachios shelled (125g)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 30g
- 3/4 cup whole milk or cream 190ml divided
- 4 oz good white chocolate chopped about 1 cup
- 2 tablespoons confectioner’s sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Diamond Crystal
Instructions
- Bring a medium sized pot of water to a boil and add the shelled pistachios. Let them boil for 3 minutes, then drain and place on a clean kitchen towel.
- Fold the towel over to cover, and rub pistachios in the towel to loosen the skins. Separate the pistachios and discard the skins. Make sure the pistachios are completely dry, then add to the blender.
- Add the butter and 1/4 cup milk to a small microwave safe bowl. Heat in 20 second bursts, just until butter is melted and milk is hot. Add white chocolate and stir until melted. If it needs more melting, heat for another 10-15 seconds and stir (you can also do this on the stovetop in a small saucepan on low heat).
- To the blender with the pistachios, add the powdered sugar and salt. Scrape in the melted white chocolate/butter mixture. Pulse on medium speed until the pistachios turn into a paste.
- Slowly, a few tablespoons at a time, add the remaining milk until the paste is the desired thickness (You may not need to add the full remaining 1/2 cup, but note the cream will become thicker as it cools).
- You’ll need to stop the blender 3-4 times to scrape down the sides. Blend on high power for 30 seconds to a minute, until texture turns smooth and creamy. Once the mixture is ready, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. The pistachio cream will keep well in the fridge for 2 weeks
Nutrition
Variations and Vegan Pistachio Cream Recipe
To make a vegan pistachio cream recipe, simply swap out dairy for your favorite plant-based milk and vegan white chocolate. For added richness, you can use coconut butter or a plant-based margarine alternative. This allows everyone to enjoy delicious pistachio crea m, regardless of dietary needs!
How to Use Pistachio Cream: Recipes Using Pistachio Cream
Pistachio cream is fantastically versatile. Here are a few ways to use it:
- Spread it on toast or pancakes for breakfast.
- Pair it with homemade Hakka Noodles for a fusion dessert.
- Swirl into batters for a pistachio cream cake recipe or pie.
- Add dollops to ice cream, tarts, or even savory dishes for an unexpected burst of flavor.
- Use it as a filling for elegant pastries or pair it with Homemade Pappardelle for creative ravioli.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is pistachio cream?
Pistachio cream is a smooth, rich spread made primarily from ground pistachios, often combined with white chocolate, milk, and butter. It’s popular in Italian desserts and can be used as a spread, filling, or topping.
Can I use roasted pistachios for pistachio cream?
It’s best to use raw, unsalted pistachios for the creamiest texture and freshest flavor. Roasted pistachios can be used but may alter the taste and color of your cream.
Why do I need to peel the pistachios?
Peeling removes the thin brown skins that can add bitterness and dull the green color of the cream. Skinned pistachios produce a smoother, sweeter, and more visually appealing pistachio cream.
How should I store pistachio cream?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It typically keeps well for up to 2 weeks. Bring to room temperature before using for easier spreading.
Conclusion
Creating a homemade pistachio cream recipe is rewarding, simple, and fun—bringing out the very best flavor in every spoonful. With this easy pistachio cream recipe, you can enjoy silky spreads, cake fillings, or even pie toppings that rival any store-bought dessert. Whether you’re experimenting with fusion dishes, layering cakes, or trying vegan alternatives, this pistachio cream recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen for delicious, nutty creations anytime.
Don’t forget to explore more recipes using pistachio cream and check out savory noodle dishes for delicious pairings. Enjoy your kitchen adventure!
pistachio cream recipe