Nothing beats the rich, creamy delight of pistachio ice cream — a dessert that’s both luxurious and refreshing. With its nutty aroma, delicate green color, and irresistible flavor, pistachio ice cream is a true indulgence for nut lovers. The best part? You can make it right at home using simple ingredients and a bit of patience. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, from preparing the pistachios to churning the ice cream into perfection.
🌿 Ingredients:
1 cup unsalted shelled pistachios
3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided)
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
4 large egg yolks
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
(Optional) A few drops of natural green food coloring for a vibrant look
🥄 Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pistachios
1. Blanch the nuts by boiling the pistachios for about 1 minute.
2. Drain and peel off the skins (this improves the texture and color).
3. Finely grind the peeled pistachios in a food processor with 1/4 cup of sugar until they resemble a coarse paste.
Step 2: Make the Pistachio Milk Base
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the ground pistachios, whole milk, and salt.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat, cover, and let the mixture steep for 30–45 minutes to absorb all the pistachio flavor.
Step 3: Create the Custard Base
1. In a bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar.
2. Reheat the pistachio milk mixture until warm.
3. Slowly pour the warm milk into the yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
4. Pour everything back into the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring continuously until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (don’t let it boil!).
Step 4: Strain and Cool
1. Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve to remove the pistachio solids.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Add food coloring if desired.
3. Let the mixture cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 5: Churn the Ice Cream
1. Pour the chilled mixture into your ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2–3 hours for a firmer texture.
🍧 Serving Tips:
Top with chopped roasted pistachios or drizzle with honey for extra indulgence.
Pair with a warm brownie or serve in waffle cones for a summer treat.
💡 Bonus Tips:
For a stronger pistachio flavor, add a few drops of pistachio extract.
No ice cream maker? Pour the mixture into a loaf pan, freeze, and stir every 30 minutes until creamy (around 4 hours).
Final Scoop 🍨:
Homemade pistachio ice cream is a labor of love, but every creamy, nutty bite is worth the effort. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself, this recipe delivers a scoop of pure joy. So grab your ingredients, churn up some goodness, and enjoy a taste of nutty perfection right from your kitchen!
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