Indulge in a luxurious twist on the traditional Italian Tiramisu with this Pistachio Tiramisu. Featuring the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese paired with the distinct flavor of pistachios and the deep notes of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, this dessert is a delightful treat that will elevate any occasion. The delicate layers and irresistible crunch make every bite unforgettable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
-
Unique flavor profile: The pistachios add a rich, nutty flavor that complements the classic coffee and mascarpone layers.
-
Elegant dessert: This Pistachio Tiramisu is both beautiful and delicious, making it perfect for special occasions or dinner parties.
-
Easy to prepare: Though it looks sophisticated, this dessert is surprisingly simple to make and requires no baking.
-
Perfect texture: The combination of creamy mascarpone and whipped cream with crunchy pistachios creates a delightful contrast in every spoonful.
Ingredients
-
1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
-
1 ½ cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
-
24 ladyfinger cookies
-
¾ cup granulated sugar
-
1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
½ cup heavy cream
-
Cocoa powder, for dusting
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
-
Prepare Coffee Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the cooled brewed coffee with ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
-
Soak the Ladyfingers: Dip each ladyfinger cookie into the coffee mixture for just a few seconds, ensuring both sides are well coated.
-
Layer the Ladyfingers: Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers at the bottom of a rectangular glass dish.
-
Make the Mascarpone Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, remaining granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
-
Whip the Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well incorporated.
-
Assemble the Tiramisu: Spoon half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the layer of ladyfingers. Spread it evenly with a spatula.
-
Add Pistachios: Sprinkle half of the chopped pistachios over the mascarpone layer.
-
Repeat Layers: Place another layer of soaked ladyfingers on top of the pistachios, followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture and chopped pistachios.
-
Finish with Ladyfingers and Cocoa: End with a final layer of soaked ladyfingers. Dust the top with cocoa powder.
-
Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together.
-
Serve: Before serving, dust the top with additional cocoa powder and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for an extra touch of elegance.
Servings and Timing
-
Servings: 8
-
Prep Time: 30 minutes
-
Cook Time: 0 minutes
-
Total Time: 4 hours (including chilling time)
Variations
-
Nutty Twist: Add other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a mix of flavors and textures.
-
Coffee Flavor: For a stronger coffee taste, add a tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the coffee mixture.
-
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free mascarpone cheese, coconut cream, and vegan ladyfingers for a dairy-free twist on this dessert.
Storage/Reheating
-
Refrigerator: Store leftover Pistachio Tiramisu in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dessert improves in flavor after chilling overnight.
-
Freezing: While best served fresh, you can freeze the tiramisu before adding the cocoa powder and pistachios for up to a month. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
FAQs
Can I make Pistachio Tiramisu ahead of time?
Yes, it’s actually best made a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours.
Can I substitute the mascarpone cheese?
If you can’t find mascarpone cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
How do I make sure the ladyfingers don’t get too soggy?
Dip the ladyfingers into the coffee mixture briefly—about 1-2 seconds per side—so they absorb just enough liquid without becoming too soggy.
Can I use a different type of nut?
Yes! While pistachios are the star of this recipe, you could try using almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor.
How should I serve Pistachio Tiramisu?
Serve chilled, directly from the fridge. Garnish with additional cocoa powder and pistachios just before serving for a refined look.
Can I make this recipe without ladyfingers?
While ladyfingers are traditional, you could substitute with sponge cake or even shortbread cookies, though the texture may vary.
Can I use sweetened whipped cream instead of heavy cream?
It’s better to use heavy cream and whip it yourself, as sweetened whipped cream may alter the texture and sweetness of the tiramisu.
How do I store leftover Pistachio Tiramisu?
Cover and store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to eat it within this time to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Pistachio Tiramisu?
Yes, you can freeze it before adding the cocoa powder and pistachios. Once frozen, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Conclusion
This Pistachio Tiramisu is a decadent twist on the classic Italian dessert that is sure to impress. With its creamy layers, rich pistachio crunch, and delicious coffee-soaked ladyfingers, it offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Ideal for special occasions or a sweet indulgence any time, this dessert is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.
Print
Pistachio Tiramisu
- Total Time: 4 hours (including refrigeration)
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This Pistachio Tiramisu offers a luxurious twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining rich coffee flavor with the nutty essence of pistachios. Creamy mascarpone, soft ladyfingers, and a delicate crunch make this tiramisu a perfect indulgence for any occasion. A decadent dessert that will leave your guests impressed!
Ingredients
1 cup shelled pistachios, finely chopped
1 ½ cups strong brewed coffee, cooled
24 ladyfinger cookies
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 ½ cups mascarpone cheese
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup heavy cream
Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions
Prepare Coffee Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the cooled coffee and ¼ cup of granulated sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
Soak Ladyfingers: Dip each ladyfinger cookie into the coffee mixture for a few seconds, making sure to coat both sides.
Layer Ladyfingers: Arrange a layer of soaked ladyfingers in the bottom of a rectangular glass dish.
Prepare Mascarpone Cream: In a mixing bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, remaining sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Whip Cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold it into the mascarpone mixture.
Assemble Layers: Spoon half of the mascarpone cream mixture over the ladyfingers in the dish. Spread evenly. Sprinkle half of the chopped pistachios over the cream layer.
Repeat Layers: Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers on top of the pistachios. Repeat the process with the remaining mascarpone cream mixture and pistachios.
Finish and Refrigerate: Top with a final layer of ladyfingers. Dust with cocoa powder. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight).
Serve: Before serving, dust with additional cocoa powder and garnish with chopped pistachios.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: Italian
