Pistachio Ice Cream

Short Description

Pistachio ice cream is a luxurious frozen dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios with a creamy, smooth texture. Made with real pistachios, this ice cream offers a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness, making it a favorite among ice cream enthusiasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: Utilizes real pistachios for a genuine taste.
• Creamy Texture: The combination of heavy cream and egg yolks ensures a rich and smooth consistency.
• Homemade Goodness: Free from artificial colors and flavors, offering a natural and wholesome treat.
• Versatile: Perfect on its own or as a complement to other desserts.Tastes Better From Scratch+3Epicurious+3Bon Appétit+3

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 egg yolks
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pure almond extract
• 1 cup whole shelled pistachios, roughly chopped, dividedEpicuriousEpicurious+11Tastes Better From Scratch+11Bon Appétit+11

Directions

1. In a food processor, combine ½ cup pistachios and ¾ cup sugar. Process until finely chopped and blended.
2. In a saucepan over medium-low heat, add evaporated milk, cream, and salt. Stir in the pistachio mixture. Cook, stirring occasionally, until almost simmering and sugar has dissolved, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks well. Slowly whisk in 1 cup of the hot milk mixture to temper the yolks.
4. Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and reaches about 170°F (77°C), approximately 8-10 minutes. Do not allow it to boil.
5. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any solids. Cover and refrigerate for several hours or overnight until completely chilled.
6. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. During the last few minutes of churning, add the remaining ½ cup of chopped pistachios.
8. Transfer the ice cream to a container, cover, and freeze until firm, at least 3 hours.Tastes Better From Scratch+1Life Made Simple+1

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutesBon Appétit+4Life Made Simple+4Allrecipes+4Bon Appétit+5Tastes Better From Scratch+5Ninja Test Kitchen+5

Variations

• No-Churn Version: Combine sweetened condensed milk, pistachio butter, and vanilla extract. Fold in whipped heavy cream until combined. Freeze until firm.
• Vegan Option: Use coconut milk and a plant-based cream alternative. Replace egg yolks with cornstarch or another thickening agent.
• Add-Ins: Incorporate dark chocolate chips or swirls of caramel for added flavor.
• Color Enhancement: Add a few drops of natural green food coloring for a more vibrant appearance.Simply Scratch

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. Place plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent ice crystals.
• Serving: Before serving, let the ice cream sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly for easier scooping.Epicurious

FAQs

What type of pistachios should I use?

Use unsalted, shelled pistachios for the best flavor and control over the salt content in your ice cream.Simply Scratch

Can I make this ice cream without an ice cream maker?

Yes, a no-churn version can be made by folding whipped cream into a sweetened condensed milk and pistachio mixture, then freezing until firm.Simply Scratch

How can I achieve a green color naturally?

Blending the pistachios thoroughly can impart a natural green hue. For a more vibrant color, consider adding a small amount of natural green food coloring.

Is it necessary to toast the pistachios?

Toasting enhances the nutty flavor of pistachios, but it’s optional. If you prefer a more subtle taste, you can use raw pistachios.Serious Eats

Can I use pistachio paste instead of whole pistachios?

Yes, pistachio paste can be used for a smoother texture and concentrated flavor. Adjust the quantity based on the paste’s strength.

How long does homemade pistachio ice cream last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it can last up to 2 weeks in the freezer.

Can I add other nuts to this recipe?

Absolutely. Chopped almonds or hazelnuts can complement the pistachio flavor well.

Is there a low-fat version of this ice cream?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the texture will be less creamy.

What can I serve with pistachio ice cream?

It pairs well with chocolate desserts, fruit tarts, or simply served in a cone or bowl.

Can I make this ice cream sugar-free?

Yes, use a sugar substitute suitable for freezing, such as erythritol or stevia. Be aware that this may alter the texture slightly.

Conclusion

Pistachio ice cream is a delightful treat that brings the rich, nutty flavor of pistachios into a creamy dessert. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with other desserts, its unique taste and texture make it a standout choice for ice cream lovers.

Print