Easy Pistachio Tiramisu Recipe

What is Pistachio Tiramisu?

Pistachio Tiramisu is a delicious twist on the famous Italian dessert. Instead of just coffee flavor, this version adds the rich, nutty taste of pistachios. It has soft cake layers, creamy filling, and a crunchy pistachio topping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – Simple steps anyone can follow
• Make ahead – Perfect for parties and special occasions
• Rich flavor – Combines coffee and pistachio tastes
• Impressive dessert – Looks fancy but simple to prepare
• Serves 10 people – Great for family gatherings

Ingredients You Need

For the Pistachio Cake:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup ground pistachios
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 large eggs (separate whites from yolks)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Cream Layer:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese (room temperature)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• 1/2 cup strong coffee or espresso (cooled)
• 2 tablespoons pistachio liqueur (optional)
• 1/2 cup crushed pistachios for topping
• Cocoa powder or white chocolate (optional)

Kitchen Tools You Need

• 2 large mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire cooling rack
• Plastic wrap

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Pistachio Cake (30 minutes)

1. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
2. Prepare your pan – Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter
3. Mix dry ingredients – In a bowl, stir together flour, ground pistachios, baking powder, and salt
4. Beat egg yolks – In another bowl, beat egg yolks with half the sugar (about 6 tablespoons) until thick and pale
5. Beat egg whites – In a clean bowl, beat egg whites until foamy, then slowly add remaining sugar. Beat until stiff peaks form
6. Combine everything – Add the flour mixture to the egg yolks and stir gently. Then fold in the beaten egg whites carefully
7. Bake the cake – Pour into prepared pan and bake 20-25 minutes until golden
8. Cool completely – Let cake cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire rack

Step 2: Make the Cream (15 minutes)

1. Whip the cream – In a cold bowl, whip heavy cream until soft peaks form
2. Mix mascarpone – In another bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth
3. Combine – Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture

Step 3: Put It All Together (20 minutes)

1. Cut the cake – Slice cooled cake in half horizontally (you’ll have 2 layers)
2. Prepare coffee mixture – Mix cooled coffee with pistachio liqueur (if using)
3. First layer – Place bottom cake layer in serving dish
4. Add coffee – Brush cake with half the coffee mixture
5. Add cream – Spread half the mascarpone cream on top
6. Second layer – Add top cake layer and brush with remaining coffee
7. Final cream – Spread remaining cream on top
8. Add toppings – Sprinkle with crushed pistachios

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Cover – Wrap with plastic wrap
2. Refrigerate – Chill for at least 4 hours (overnight is better)
3. Serve – Cut into squares and serve cold

Important Tips for Success

• Room temperature ingredients work best for smooth mixing
• Don’t overmix the cake batter to keep it light and fluffy
• Cool coffee completely before using to prevent melting the cream
• Be patient – The longer it chills, the better it tastes
• Use fresh pistachios for the best flavor

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 370
• Fat: 24g
• Carbs: 28g
• Protein: 7g
• Serves: 10 people

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Keep covered for up to 3 days
• Freezer: Can freeze for up to 1 month (thaw in fridge before serving)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without alcohol? Yes! Skip the pistachio liqueur or replace with pistachio syrup.

What if I can’t find mascarpone? You can substitute with cream cheese, but mascarpone gives the best texture.

Can I make this ahead? Absolutely! This dessert actually tastes better the next day.

How do I know when the cake is done? Insert a toothpick in the center – it should come out clean.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with hot coffee or espresso
• Add a small glass of dessert wine
• Garnish with extra chopped pistachios
• Dust with cocoa powder before serving

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate version: Add 2 tablespoons cocoa powder to the cake
• Almond version: Replace pistachios with ground almonds
• Lighter version: Use light cream cheese instead of mascarpone

This homemade Pistachio Tiramisu is perfect for special occasions, family dinners, or whenever you want to impress your guests with an authentic Italian dessert that’s surprisingly easy to make!