This Easy Pistachio Tiramisu is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dessert, infusing the rich and creamy mascarpone filling with the delightful flavor of pistachios. The layers of delicate ladyfingers soaked in strong coffee are perfectly complemented by the pistachio mascarpone cream, creating a dessert that’s both luxurious and comforting. Perfect for any occasion, this pistachio-infused tiramisu is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavor profile and velvety texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of traditional tiramisu, you’ll love this pistachio version that adds a nutty twist to the creamy classic. The pistachio cream blends seamlessly with the mascarpone, creating a rich, flavorful filling that’s smooth and fluffy. The coffee-soaked ladyfingers provide just the right amount of bitterness to balance out the sweetness of the cream. Whether you’re serving this for a special occasion or just treating yourself, this easy pistachio tiramisu is guaranteed to become a new favorite!
Ingredients
- 12 oz mascarpone cheese, chilled (340g)
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
- ½ cup pistachio cream (can add up to ⅔ cup if preferred)
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled (480g)
- 30-36 ladyfingers
- 1 ½ cups espresso or strong coffee (make it twice as strong as usual), lukewarm (not hot)
- Cocoa powder for dusting
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the mascarpone mixture: In a large bowl, whisk the mascarpone cheese, sugar, salt, and vanilla on low speed for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy. It’s okay if the sugar isn’t fully dissolved at this point. Scrape the bowl to make sure everything is well combined.
- Add the pistachio cream: Add the pistachio cream and whisk gently for a few seconds until combined. Avoid overmixing to preserve the light texture of the cream.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until it thickens and forms soft peaks. Be careful not to whip it to stiff peaks, as you want a smooth texture.
- Fold the cream into the mascarpone mixture: Add the whipped cream to the mascarpone mixture in two additions, gently folding it in with a rubber spatula. The mixture should be fluffy and light. If the mixture looks slightly grainy, you can add 2-4 tablespoons of liquid heavy cream (not whipped) and gently fold it in until smooth.
- Assemble the tiramisu: In a 9×9″ square pan (or any similar-sized serving dish), add a layer of ladyfingers at the bottom. Dip each ladyfinger into the lukewarm coffee for just 2 seconds and arrange them tightly in the pan.
- Layer the mascarpone cream: Spread half of the pistachio mascarpone cream over the layer of ladyfingers, smoothing it out evenly.
- Repeat the layers: Add another layer of coffee-soaked ladyfingers on top of the cream, followed by the remaining pistachio mascarpone cream. For a more polished look, you can pipe the second layer of mascarpone cream on top using a piping bag or any piping tip of your choice.
- Chill: Cover the tiramisu with cling wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld together and the tiramisu set.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with cocoa powder for a finishing touch. Slice into portions and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10 servings
- Total Time: 7 hours
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Chill Time: 6 hours (or overnight)
Variations
- Nuts on top: Sprinkle crushed pistachios on top before serving for an extra crunch and a burst of pistachio flavor.
- Chocolatey twist: Add a layer of grated chocolate between the mascarpone cream layers for an additional layer of flavor and texture.
- Coffee flavor adjustment: If you prefer a less intense coffee flavor, reduce the coffee strength or soak the ladyfingers for a shorter period.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: This pistachio tiramisu can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Make sure to dust with cocoa powder just before serving.
- Reheating: Tiramisu is best served chilled, so there is no need to reheat. It can be enjoyed straight from the fridge.

FAQs
Can I use a different type of cream cheese for this recipe?
For the best results, mascarpone is recommended for tiramisu. However, you can substitute it with cream cheese, though the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
Can I make this tiramisu without pistachio cream?
Yes, you can leave out the pistachio cream if you prefer a more traditional tiramisu. For a pistachio flavor, try adding a little bit of pistachio extract or ground pistachios into the mascarpone mixture.
How long should I soak the ladyfingers?
Dip each ladyfinger in the coffee for about 2 seconds. The key is to soak them just enough so they absorb the coffee but don’t become soggy.
Can I make this tiramisu ahead of time?
Absolutely! Tiramisu is best made ahead of time as it allows the flavors to meld and the dessert to set properly. It can be refrigerated overnight for the best results.
What if I don’t have espresso?
You can use strong brewed coffee instead of espresso. Just make sure it’s as strong as possible, so the flavor is robust enough to soak the ladyfingers.
Can I make this tiramisu alcohol-free?
Yes, this recipe does not include alcohol, but you can add a tablespoon or two of your favorite liqueur (such as Marsala wine or Kahlúa) to the coffee for a boozy twist.
Can I freeze this tiramisu?
While tiramisu can be frozen, it may slightly change in texture once thawed. If freezing, make sure to cover it well with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container.
How do I make the coffee stronger for this recipe?
To make the coffee stronger, simply use twice as much coffee grounds for brewing, or reduce the amount of water you use for brewing the espresso or coffee.
Can I use a different nut cream instead of pistachio?
You can substitute pistachio cream with other nut creams like hazelnut or almond, but keep in mind the flavor will be different.
Can I make this tiramisu without whipped cream?
Whipped cream is a key component to achieving the light, fluffy texture of the filling. However, you could omit it and use more mascarpone if necessary, but the texture might be denser.
Conclusion
This Easy Pistachio Tiramisu is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dessert, with a creamy pistachio mascarpone filling and the perfect balance of coffee and sweetness. It’s a showstopper dessert that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations. With its rich flavor and smooth texture, it’s a treat that will have everyone coming back for more!*
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Easy Pistachio Tiramisu
- Total Time: 7 hours
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Pistachio Tiramisu is a luxurious twist on the classic Italian dessert, blending rich mascarpone with pistachio cream and coffee-soaked ladyfingers. A velvety, flavorful treat that will impress at any occasion.
Ingredients
For the mascarpone mixture:
12 oz mascarpone cheese, chilled (340g)
½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
½ cup pistachio cream (can add up to ⅔ cup if preferred)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For the whipped cream:
2 cups heavy whipping cream, chilled (480g)
For the assembly:
30–36 ladyfingers
1 ½ cups espresso or strong coffee, lukewarm (not hot)
Cocoa powder for dusting
Instructions
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Prepare the mascarpone mixture: Whisk the mascarpone cheese, sugar, salt, and vanilla in a large bowl on low speed for 1-2 minutes until creamy.
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Add the pistachio cream: Gently whisk in the pistachio cream until combined.
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Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the chilled heavy cream until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
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Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture: Gently fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture in two additions until smooth and fluffy.
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Assemble the tiramisu: In a 9×9″ square pan (or similar-sized dish), dip each ladyfinger into the lukewarm coffee for 2 seconds and arrange in a layer at the bottom of the pan. Spread half of the pistachio mascarpone cream over the ladyfingers.
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Layer again: Add another layer of soaked ladyfingers, followed by the remaining pistachio mascarpone cream.
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Chill: Cover and refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to set.
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Serve: Before serving, dust the top of the tiramisu with cocoa powder and slice into portions.
Notes
You can top with crushed pistachios for extra texture.
Make sure to use cooled espresso or coffee for soaking the ladyfingers, not hot.
If you prefer a more intense coffee flavor, adjust the coffee strength accordingly.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (or overnight)
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Italian