Description
This Easy Pistachio Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, combining the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese with the unique nutty flavor of pistachio cream. Lightly soaked ladyfingers in strong espresso layered with fluffy pistachio mascarpone cream make for a luscious and elegant dessert perfect for gatherings.
Ingredients
Mascarpone Mixture
- 12 oz good quality mascarpone cheese (like Galbani or Vermont Creamery), chilled (340g)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (100g)
- ½ cup pistachio cream (can add up to 2/3 cup if preferred)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Whipped Cream
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled (480g)
Assembly
- 30-36 ladyfingers
- 1 ½ cups espresso or strong coffee, lukewarm (make it twice as strong as usual)
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
- Prepare the mascarpone mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the chilled mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, pinch of salt, and vanilla extract on low speed for 1-2 minutes until creamy. Avoid overmixing to prevent breaking the texture. Scrape the bowl down to combine uniformly.
- Add pistachio cream: Whisk in the pistachio cream just for a few seconds until combined. Scrape the bowl again and do not overmix to retain a smooth consistency.
- Whip the heavy cream: In a separate bowl, whisk the chilled heavy cream until it thickens and forms soft peaks—be careful not to whip to stiff peaks.
- Fold heavy cream into mascarpone mixture: Add the whipped cream to the mascarpone and pistachio mix in two additions. Gently fold the cream in using a rubber spatula with slow, careful motions to maintain fluffiness.
- Adjust texture if needed: If the mixture appears grainy, gently fold in 2-4 tablespoons of liquid heavy cream (not whipped) until smooth and light.
- Soak ladyfingers: Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the lukewarm espresso or strong coffee for about 2 seconds to avoid sogginess, then layer them tightly at the bottom of a 9×9 inch square serving pan.
- First cream layer: Spread half of the pistachio mascarpone cream evenly over the soaked ladyfingers.
- Second ladyfinger layer: Repeat the dipping process with remaining ladyfingers and layer them over the cream.
- Final cream layer: Spread the remaining pistachio mascarpone cream evenly on top. Optionally, pipe the cream with a piping tip for a decorative finish.
- Chill: Cover the pan with cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the tiramisu to set properly.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder. Slice into portions and enjoy your luscious pistachio tiramisu!
Notes
- Use good quality mascarpone for the richest flavor and best texture.
- Do not soak the ladyfingers too long in coffee to prevent a soggy dessert.
- If pistachio cream is unavailable, you can make a homemade pistachio paste for a fresher taste.
- Chilling time is essential for the tiramisu to set and achieve optimal flavor.
- For an extra touch, garnish with chopped pistachios before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian