Pistachio Ice Cream is a timeless favourite that combines the naturally sweet, nutty taste of pistachios with the creaminess of homemade ice cream. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for those who love gourmet ice cream flavors.
Pistachio Ice Cream is a luxurious and creamy frozen dessert that highlights the unique flavour of roasted pistachios. This homemade version delivers a velvety texture with a perfect balance of nutty richness and sweetness. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make Pistachio Ice Cream from scratch, ensuring a delicious and smooth dessert.
Ingredients for Pistachio Ice Cream
To make this flavorful dessert, you’ll need:
- 1 cup shelled pistachios (unsalted)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- A few drops of green food coloring (optional, for a traditional look)
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pistachio Ice Cream
Step 1: Prepare the Pistachios
- In a food processor, finely grind 3/4 cup of the pistachios until they form a coarse paste.
- Roughly chop the remaining 1/4 cup of pistachios to use as mix-ins.
Step 2: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
- In a saucepan, heat the milk, heavy cream, sugar, and ground pistachio paste over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
- In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks until light and smooth.
- Slowly add the warm milk mixture to the egg yolks, whisking continuously to prevent scrambling.
- Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
Step 3: Chill and Churn
- Remove the mixture from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), salt, and food coloring (if desired).
- Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours (preferably overnight) for enhanced flavor infusion.
- Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions (usually about 20-25 minutes).
Step 4: Add the Chopped Pistachios
- In the last 5 minutes of churning, fold in the chopped pistachios for added texture.
- Transfer the ice cream into an airtight container and freeze for at least 4 hours before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve in a waffle cone for a classic touch.
- Top with extra chopped pistachios for added crunch.
- Drizzle with honey or white chocolate sauce for extra indulgence.
Making Pistachio Ice Cream at home is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy a rich, nutty frozen treat. Whether you love classic flavours or want a homemade version with fresh ingredients, this ice cream is sure to impress.
Try this recipe and let us know how you like it! If you enjoyed this guide, share it with friends and explore more homemade dessert recipes.
