Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream Recipe

Name: Creamy Pistachio Ice Cream Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup shelled unsalted pistachios; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; Chopped toasted pistachios for garnish (optional)

Published: June 5, 2025

by Clara Harper

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients for maximum impact.
The unique flavor of pistachios creates an indulgent treat that looks stunning in any bowl.
It’s versatile enough to serve at parties or just as a personal dessert after a long day.
Perfectly creamy and satisfying, it’s bound to impress your family and friends!

Sharing my homemade pistachio ice cream with friends had them raving about its rich flavor and smooth texture; it was an instant hit!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Pistachios: Opt for shelled unsalted pistachios for the best flavor and convenience.
Heavy Cream: Full-fat heavy cream gives the ice cream its rich and velvety texture.
Whole Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess without being overly rich; it’s perfect for balancing flavors.
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the mixture; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile beautifully.
Salt: A pinch of salt elevates sweetness and brings out the nutty flavors of the pistachios.

For the Garnish:

Pistachios (for topping): Chopped toasted pistachios add a crunchy texture that’s simply delightful.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Pistachios: Start by placing shelled pistachios into a food processor. Pulse until they are finely chopped but not pureed—this will enhance their flavor in the ice cream.

Create Your Base: In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until well blended—this will be your creamy base.

Add Pistachios: Fold in the chopped pistachios into your base mixture gently. You want them evenly distributed without over-mixing—keep that delightful crunch intact!

Chill It Out: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This chilling step helps develop those amazing flavors you’re after.

Churn Away: Pour your chilled mixture into an ice cream maker following manufacturer instructions. Churn until it reaches soft-serve consistency—this usually takes about 20-25 minutes.

Freeze Until Firm: Transfer your churned ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight to solidify fully before serving.

Now you have delicious homemade pistachio ice cream ready to dazzle your taste buds!

You Must Know

Making pistachio ice cream is not just delicious; it’s a fun and surprisingly simple process.
The vibrant green color and nutty aroma create an enticing treat that will impress guests.
Plus, you can enjoy it anytime by customizing it with toppings or mix-ins!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by blending pistachios until finely ground, then combine with cream and sugar for a rich base. Churn until creamy for perfect texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in almond milk for a dairy-free version or toss in chocolate chunks for extra sweetness. Get creative!

Storing & Reheating

Store your homemade pistachio ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. For best texture, let it soften at room temperature before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use fresh pistachios for the best flavor; stale nuts can ruin your ice cream.
Churning time matters—over-churning leads to icy ice cream instead of creamy goodness.
If you want a smoother texture, try straining out any bits after blending the mixture.

Creating my first batch of pistachio ice cream was an absolute game-changer. My friends couldn’t believe I made it from scratch and devoured every spoonful!

FAQ

Can I use roasted pistachios for this recipe?

Yes, roasted pistachios add a deeper flavor to your ice cream.

Is there a vegan option for pistachio ice cream?

Absolutely! Substitute dairy with coconut milk or almond milk for a vegan delight.

How long does homemade pistachio ice cream last?

Homemade pistachio ice cream stays fresh in the freezer for about two weeks if stored properly.

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📖 Recipe Card