Pistachio Tiramisu

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert keeps all the elements people love about tiramisu—light, creamy filling, coffee-soaked cookies, and a melt-in-your-mouth texture—while introducing a pistachio flavor that makes it stand out. It’s perfect for entertaining, can be made ahead of time, and feels both familiar and special with its nutty twist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the coffee-soaked ladyfingers:

• strongly brewed coffee

• rum (optional)

• almond extract

• ladyfingers

For the pistachio mascarpone cream:

• large eggs, separated

• granulated sugar

• mascarpone, cold

• pistachio paste

• vanilla extract

• almond extract

• pistachios, very finely chopped

Directions

1. Brew strong coffee and pour into a shallow dish. Stir in almond extract and rum if using. Set aside.

2. Separate eggs into two bowls: egg whites in one, yolks in the other.

3. Beat egg whites until soft peaks form, then gradually add half the sugar, continuing until stiff peaks form. Transfer to a large bowl.

4. Beat egg yolks with the remaining sugar until pale and fluffy. Add mascarpone and mix until smooth. Stir in pistachio paste, vanilla, and almond extract.

5. Fold the mascarpone mixture into the whipped egg whites in two additions, being careful not to deflate the mixture.

6. Quickly dip ladyfingers into the coffee (do not soak), and arrange in a single layer in a 9×9-inch pan.

7. Spread half the pistachio mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers. Repeat with another coffee-dipped layer of ladyfingers and the remaining cream.

8. Top with finely chopped pistachios. Cover and refrigerate at least 4 hours, or overnight, before serving.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Chill Time: 4 hours

• Cook Time: 0 minutes

• Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

• Servings: 16

Variations

• Use amaretto liqueur instead of rum for a sweeter almond flavor.

• Add a dusting of cocoa powder between layers for a fusion of classic and pistachio flavors.

• Replace pistachio paste with hazelnut or almond paste for a different nut-based tiramisu.

• Serve in individual glasses for a modern, portioned presentation.

• Garnish with shaved white chocolate or candied pistachios for extra flair.

Storage/Reheating

Store pistachio tiramisu covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors improve as it chills. Since this is a cold dessert, it does not require reheating. Freezing is possible, but texture may slightly change upon thawing—freeze tightly wrapped for up to 1 month and thaw in the fridge overnight.

FAQs

Can I make pistachio tiramisu without alcohol?

Yes, simply leave out the rum or substitute with extra coffee or almond extract.

What is pistachio paste, and where can I find it?

Pistachio paste is made from finely ground pistachios. It’s often available in specialty food stores or can be homemade.

Can I use store-bought mascarpone substitutes?

Mascarpone is key to the creamy texture, but in a pinch, you can mix cream cheese with heavy cream for a substitute.

Why do I need to fold the egg whites carefully?

Folding preserves the airy texture of the cream, keeping the tiramisu light and fluffy.

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, it tastes even better when chilled overnight as the flavors meld together.

What size pan works best?

A 9×9-inch square pan works perfectly, but you can also use a trifle dish or individual cups.

Can I dust cocoa powder on top like traditional tiramisu?

Yes, cocoa powder pairs beautifully with pistachios and adds a classic touch.

Do I need to cook the eggs for this recipe?

Traditional tiramisu uses raw eggs. If you prefer, use pasteurized eggs for food safety.

Can I make this recipe nut-free?

To remove pistachios, omit the paste and topping, though the dessert will lose its signature flavor.

How do I keep the ladyfingers from getting soggy?

Dip them quickly—just a second per side—in the coffee so they soften without breaking apart.

Conclusion

Pistachio tiramisu is an elegant dessert that brings a nutty twist to the classic Italian favorite. With its creamy pistachio mascarpone layers, delicate coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a topping of chopped pistachios, it’s indulgent yet refreshing. Perfect for holidays, dinner parties, or whenever you want to impress, this dessert will surely become a new favorite.