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Pistachio cream pie

Pistachio cream pie

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Prep Time 35 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 360 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the crust

  • 1½ cup graham cracker crumbs or digestive biscuit crumbs
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoon granulated sugar

For the filling

  • 1 package pistachio instant pudding mix
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup finely chopped pistachios

For the whipped topping

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Optional garnishes

  • ¼ cup whole pistachios for decoration
  • 1 ounce dark chocolate shavings

Instructions
 

  • Step1. Preparing the Crust
    A good crust is the cornerstone of any pie, and for pistachio cream pie, it’s no different. Here’s how to make a perfect crust:
    1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
    2. Mix the Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
    3. Shape the Crust: Press the crumb mixture evenly into a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish, ensuring the bottom and sides are well covered. Use the back of a spoon or the base of a glass for even compression.
    4. Bake and Cool: Bake the crust for 8-10 minutes until golden brown. Allow it to cool completely before adding the filling.
  • Step2. Making the Pistachio Filling
    The filling is the heart of your pie, and its creamy consistency and nutty flavor are what make this dessert irresistible.
    1. Prepare the Pudding Mix: In a medium saucepan, whisk the pistachio pudding mix with 2 cups of whole milk. Stir over medium heat until the mixture thickens, approximately 5-7 minutes.
    2. Cool the Mixture: Remove the pudding from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Stir occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
    3. Add Whipped Cream: Gently fold in 1 cup of whipped heavy cream to lighten the texture. This step gives the filling its signature creamy and airy consistency.
    4. Incorporate Chopped Pistachios: Stir in finely chopped pistachios for added flavor and a slight crunch.
  • Step3. Assembling the Pie
    Once the crust and filling are ready, it’s time to bring everything together.
    1. Fill the Crust: Pour the pistachio filling into the prepared crust. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring a smooth surface.
    2. Chill: Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set properly.
  • Step4. Preparing the Whipped Topping
    The topping is the final layer that adds a touch of lightness to the rich filling.
    1. Chill Your Tools: Place your mixing bowl and whisk in the freezer for about 10 minutes before starting. Cold equipment makes the whipping process easier and more effective.
    2. Whip the Cream: In the chilled bowl, combine 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar, and ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract. Beat until soft peaks form.
    3. Spread the Topping: Gently spread the whipped cream over the chilled pie, creating decorative swirls or peaks with the back of a spoon.
  • Step5. Garnishing the Pie
    A well-garnished pie is not only delicious but also visually appealing.
    1. Pistachios: Sprinkle whole pistachios or coarsely chopped pieces on top for a crunchy bite.
    2. Chocolate Shavings: Add elegance with delicate shavings of dark chocolate.
    3. Mint Leaves: Fresh mint leaves provide a contrasting color and a touch of sophisticate