If you love Italian desserts with a modern twist, this pistachio tiramisu is about to become your new signature sweet. The rich mascarpone, espresso-kissed ladyfingers, and velvety pistachio cream come together in layers of pure decadence. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or treating yourself to an elevated dessert moment, this recipe brings all the creamy comfort of classic tiramisu but with a nutty, elegant flavor that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Table of Contents
Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe Card
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 8–10
Calories: ~420 per serving
Ingredients
For the Pistachio Mascarpone Cream
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream, cold
- 1 cup (250 g) mascarpone
- 1/2 cup (120 g) pistachio paste
- 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of fine sea salt
For the Espresso Dip
- 1 1/4 cups (300 ml) brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
- 2 tbsp Amaretto or pistachio liqueur (optional)
For Assembly
- 24–30 ladyfingers (savoiardi)
- 1/3 cup (40 g) crushed pistachios
- Cocoa powder or finely ground pistachio for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the pistachio cream. In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream to soft peaks. In a separate bowl, whisk mascarpone, pistachio paste, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the pistachio mixture until fully combined.
- Make the espresso dip. In a shallow dish, mix cooled espresso with sugar and liqueur if using.
- Dip the ladyfingers. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso (no longer than 1 second per side). Arrange a full layer in the bottom of an 8×8-inch or similar dish.
- Add the pistachio cream layer. Spread half of the pistachio mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
- Repeat layers. Add another espresso-dipped ladyfinger layer, followed by the remaining cream.
- Finish & chill. Dust with cocoa powder or pistachio powder and sprinkle with crushed pistachios. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight for best texture.
- Serve. Slice cleanly with a warm knife and enjoy chilled.
Substitutions & Dietary Swaps
- Mascarpone: Replace with full-fat cream cheese for a firmer texture, or mix ricotta + mascarpone for a lighter version.
- Pistachio Paste: Substitute with almond paste or hazelnut spread for alternate flavor profiles.
- Ladyfingers: Use gluten-free ladyfingers if needed.
- Alcohol-Free: Skip liqueur entirely; add 1 tsp almond extract to the espresso for aromatic depth.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut whipped cream and dairy-free mascarpone alternatives.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Use cold cream. It whips faster and yields a lighter mascarpone mixture.
- Don’t oversoak ladyfingers. A quick dunk prevents the tiramisu from becoming mushy.
- Chill overnight. The flavor deepens and the layers set beautifully for clean slicing.
- Add pistachio crunch. Toast pistachios lightly for an aromatic nutty finish.
- Use high-quality pistachio paste. Opt for 100% pistachio paste without added sugar or oils.
Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating
- Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours before serving for best texture.
- Refrigerate: Store covered for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating: Not applicable serve chilled!
Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes
- Mixture too runny? Overmixing mascarpone can cause thinning. Fold gently.
- Soggy tiramisu? Over-soaked ladyfingers are the culprit. Dip quickly.
- Not enough pistachio flavor? Increase pistachio paste or add 1–2 tsp pistachio extract.
- Layers not setting? Chill longer 4 hours minimum, 8+ hours ideal.
Flavor Pairings & Serving Suggestions
Serve this pistachio tiramisu with light, complementary flavors:
Pistachio Tiramisu
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, whip the cold heavy cream to soft peaks using an electric mixer.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the mascarpone, pistachio paste, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of fine sea salt until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone pistachio mixture in two to three additions, taking care not to deflate the cream. Set the pistachio mascarpone cream aside.
- Prepare the espresso dip by combining the cooled espresso or strong coffee with sugar and Amaretto or pistachio liqueur, if using. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Working one at a time, quickly dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture for no longer than 1 second per side, just enough to lightly soak the surface.
- Arrange a full layer of dipped ladyfingers in the bottom of an 8×8-inch (or similar) dish.
- Spread half of the pistachio mascarpone cream evenly over the ladyfinger layer with a spatula.
- Repeat with a second layer of espresso-dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining pistachio mascarpone cream, smoothing the top.
- Dust the top generously with cocoa powder or finely ground pistachios and sprinkle with crushed pistachios for added texture.
- Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, until the layers are fully set and the flavors have melded.
- Slice the pistachio tiramisu with a warm, clean knife and serve chilled.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make pistachio tiramisu without eggs?
Yes! this recipe is naturally egg-free since the cream is stabilized with whipped cream and mascarpone.
Can I use homemade pistachio paste?
Absolutely. Blend roasted pistachios with a bit of neutral oil until smooth.
Does tiramisu need alcohol?
No. It’s completely optional and easy to omit.
Can I assemble tiramisu in individual cups?
Yes! It’s elegant, portion-controlled, and sets even faster.
How do I get clean slices?
Use a warm knife and wipe between cuts for perfect edges.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! use a 9×13-inch dish and increase all ingredients proportionally.
Conclusion
This pistachio tiramisu brings together silky mascarpone, aromatic espresso, and luxurious pistachio flavor for a dessert that truly impresses. Whether for holidays, celebrations, or weeknight indulgence, it’s an unforgettable treat that always earns compliments. Ready to master more Italian-inspired sweets? Explore our dessert collection and start your next culinary adventure!
External source for safe food handling guidelines: foodsafety.gov