Rating: 3.60
(77)

Pistachio Panna Cotta

March 14, 2025

Pistachio Panna Cotta is a silky and rich dessert that combines the creamy texture of panna cotta with the nutty flavor of pistachios.

Pistachio panna cotta is a creamy, elegant dessert that combines the rich flavor of pistachios with the smooth, velvety texture of classic Italian panna cotta. This indulgent treat is made by gently heating cream with sugar and gelatin, then blending it with finely ground pistachios or pistachio paste to create a nutty, aromatic custard. Once chilled, it sets into a delicate, jiggly pudding that feels luxurious with every spoonful.

The beauty of pistachio panna cotta lies in its subtle gentle flavor and simplicity. The pistachios add a distinct nuttiness that complements the cream’s richness without overpowering it. A touch of vanilla or almond extract enhances the flavor profile, while the natural green hue from the nuts gives the dessert an earthy, sophisticated appearance. Served in individual glasses or unmolded onto dessert plates, it makes a lovely presentation for dinner parties, holidays, or a quiet indulgence at home.

Pistachio panna cotta pairs beautifully with a range of toppings. A drizzle of honey or dark chocolate sauce brings out its depth, while crushed pistachios add texture and crunch. For a brighter note, consider adding a spoonful of berry compote or fresh raspberries, which cut through the richness with a touch of acidity. You can also incorporate a thin biscuit or tuile for contrast and elegance.

As a make-ahead dessert, panna cotta is incredibly convenient. It requires no baking, can be prepared in advance, and only needs a few hours in the fridge to set. The result is a perfectly smooth and flavorful dessert with minimal effort. Pistachio panna cotta is a wonderful way to showcase simple ingredients in a refined, satisfying form that’s both comforting and elevated.

Pistachio Panna Cotta
Pistachio Panna Cotta
3.60 from 77 votes
Pistachio Panna Cotta is a silky and rich dessert that combines the creamy texture of panna cotta with the nutty flavor of pistachios.
Servings 4 people
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Total Time 4 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup heavy cream for the base
  • 1 cup whole milk for the base
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons gelatin unflavored, powder form
  • 3 tablespoons cold water to bloom gelatin
  • 1/2 cup pistachio paste store-bought or homemade
  • 1/4 cup crushed pistachios for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over cold water and let it bloom for 5 minutes.
  • In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, milk, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is heated, but not boiling.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and pistachio paste until well combined.
  • Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm mixture and stir until it is completely dissolved.
  • Pour the mixture into four serving glasses or molds. Allow it to cool slightly before covering with plastic wrap.
  • Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or until set.
  • To serve, top with crushed pistachios and enjoy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 7gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 16gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 40mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 2gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 4mg
Calories: 380kcal
Meal Type: Dessert
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keyword: dessert, Panna Cotta, pistachio
Cooking Method: Baked
Time: 30-45 Min
Level: Easy
Tried this recipe?Mention @coolinarco or tag #coolinarco!
Join the Conversation
  1. User avatar Gaius Helen Mohiam says:

    4 stars
    Wow, what a treat! I shared this with my friends and they loved it. So creamy and nutty. Perfect dessert!

    1. User avatar leota.gottlieb24 says:

      5 stars
      Glad you and your friends enjoyed it! The creaminess is wonderful, isn’t it? I can’t wait to make this again.

  2. User avatar alfred.considine27 says:

    2 stars
    I tried making this but I think I messed up with the gelatin. It didn’t set properly! I need help.

  3. 5 stars
    This panna cotta was delicious! I added a little extra pistachio paste for more flavor. Will definitely make again!

  4. User avatar MAGA2024.Trumpster says:

    2 stars
    I tried this recipe, but it didn’t firm up. What did I do wrong?

    1. 4 stars
      Maybe you didn’t let it chill long enough? It needs time to set properly! Mine turned out great!

    2. 3 stars
      You probably missed the gelatin blooming step. That’s super important! Did you do that?

  5. User avatar pamila.kessler says:

    3 stars
    Is it normal for panna cotta to be so sweet? Next time, I’m reducing sugar!

  6. User avatar courtney.bosco2008 says:

    2 stars
    I dunno, mine turned out kinda soupy. Followed the recipe but something was off.

  7. User avatar usha.stanton1997 says:

    5 stars
    Delicious dessert! My family loved it and asked for more. Thumbs up!

  8. 5 stars
    This is sooo good, I made it twice this week. Pure heaven!

  9. 5 stars
    So rich and creamy, just like I like. Will make again for sure. Yum!

  10. User avatar rickie.white1972 says:

    5 stars
    This was a hit at our dinner party! Everyone loved it.

  11. User avatar linwood.howe says:

    3 stars
    Y’all this is TOO rich for me. Why do people love panna cotta so much? I prefer cake.

  12. User avatar Vroomfondel says:

    3 stars
    Gelatin is weird. I don’t like how it feels. But my hubby liked it a lot!

    1. User avatar cesar.mccullough says:

      3 stars
      Gelatin is odd, I agree! But like it or not, it sure does give a nice texture. Did you know you can make panna cotta without it? You should check that out!

    2. User avatar Ra'zhinda says:

      4 stars
      I totally get what you mean about gelatin! It can be a bit jiggly and strange. But it’s great that your hubby enjoyed it! Maybe next time try something like a mousse?

  13. User avatar petra.runolfsson says:

    5 stars
    So good!!! 🍨✨

    1. User avatar Michael83 says:

      5 stars
      I tried this recipe and it really is amazing! Perfectly creamy! 😍

  14. User avatar carlo.mraz72 says:

    3 stars
    Made this for a party. Nobody ate it. Maybe too fancy? Idk.

    1. 4 stars
      Don’t worry! Sometimes people just stick to what they know. It does sound a bit posh for a party, though. Maybe next time go for something more classic! 😅

  15. User avatar roberto.spencer says:

    1 star
    Wait, do you really have to use heavy cream? Isn’t that bad for health? 😬

  16. User avatar horace.kunde says:

    5 stars
    Delicious and elegant! Made it for my anniversary and it was perfect. 😍

    1. User avatar Leto Atreides says:

      5 stars
      Happy to hear you liked it! Perfect for a special occasion! 🎉

  17. User avatar riley.reichel66 says:

    2 stars
    Too heavy for my taste. I prefer lighter desserts. Pass!

  18. User avatar liberal.hero says:

    4 stars
    I don’t like pistachios much, but my friend made this for me and I ate it all! Crazy good.

  19. User avatar andre.hettinger says:

    4 stars
    Beautiful dessert! I used almond extract instead of vanilla ’cause I was out, still delicious!

  20. User avatar kaila.zemlak1984 says:

    2 stars
    Not exactly what I expected. The gelatin was tricky, and I messed it up. Anyone got tips?

    1. 4 stars
      I had the same problem with gelatin! Make sure to really let it bloom and don’t stir too much afterward. Also, try adding it to the warm mix slowly!

  21. User avatar Dr. Lenna Jacobi says:

    2 stars
    I dunno, mine didn’t set right. Was too runny. Maybe too much cream?

  22. User avatar marin.walter82 says:

    4 stars
    I was skeptical at first, but wow! The pistachio flavor is the best!

  23. User avatar Pasta Fasta says:

    5 stars
    This was super easy to make and tastes heavenly! My friends loved it!

  24. User avatar madlyn.braun says:

    1 star
    Panna Cotta? More like Panna NOTta! 😂 Not for me!

    1. User avatar eldridge.lemke27 says:

      3 stars
      Not a fan of panna cotta? It can be tricky to get the texture right, but it’s worth a try!

    2. User avatar ernestine.ledner says:

      4 stars
      Haha, I get that! Some things just ain’t for everyone. What do you like instead?

  25. User avatar gustavo.auer79 says:

    3 stars
    Why does the gelatin have to bloom? Can’t we just mix it?

  26. User avatar Brand-shei says:

    5 stars
    This panna cotta turned out amazing! The pistachio flavor is spot on. Will definitely make again!

  27. User avatar eugenio.russel says:

    5 stars
    Incredible! The pistachio flavor was so rich and creamy. Will definitely make again!

  28. User avatar Spider Guardian says:

    4 stars
    Yum! So easy to make! I’m not a chef but felt like one with this.

    1. User avatar Murbella says:

      5 stars
      I agree! This dessert is super easy and tastes fancy. It’s perfect for impressing guests!

    2. User avatar nida.wisozk1960 says:

      2 stars
      I dunno, it seems too simple. Can it really taste that good? Maybe I should add chocolate?

  29. User avatar gricelda.walker57 says:

    5 stars
    YUM!!! My new fav dessert. So creamy and dreamy. Perfect for summer!

  30. 2 stars
    I don’t have pistachio paste, can I just use peanut butter instead?

    1. User avatar derrick.emmerich80 says:

      2 stars
      Peanut butter will totally change the flavor! Not sure it’ll work. 😬

  31. User avatar Uh Shenlong says:

    5 stars
    Taste reminds me of my trip to Italy! So authentic. Will definitely make it again.

  32. User avatar maritza.doyle8 says:

    4 stars
    Delicious! I swapped the pistachio paste for almond and it was still yum. Thanks for this!

    1. User avatar marta.yost35 says:

      5 stars
      Glad you enjoyed it! Almond sounds like a good twist. I might try that next time.

  33. User avatar Nabooru says:

    2 stars
    ?? Too many steps. I just want a quick dessert!

  34. 3 stars
    Tasty but expensive to make with all that cream and pistachio paste. Not worth it for me.

  35. User avatar courtney.feeney says:

    4 stars
    Yum! Easy to make and perfect for dinner parties. Everyone loved it!

  36. 3 stars
    Why does it use gelatin? You could just do it with just cream and milk, right?

    1. User avatar Dewey Murray says:

      5 stars
      Using gelatin gives it that nice, creamy texture and helps it hold its shape better. It really makes a difference in desserts like this!

  37. User avatar jude.jacobs9 says:

    3 stars
    Honestly, I found it too sweet. Maybe I’ll reduce the sugar next time.

  38. User avatar dedra.rolfson54 says:

    1 star
    What’s the point of pistachios? I don’t get it. This was too green for me.

  39. 5 stars
    This panna cotta was sooo good! Sweet but not too sweet. Making it again!

  40. 3 stars
    HMMM… is gelatin vegan? I want to make this for my friend who’s a vegan. Confused.

  41. User avatar fredericka.gutmann92 says:

    5 stars
    Great recipe! Easy to follow. My family was impressed at dinner. Highly recommend!

  42. User avatar ariana.romaguera46 says:

    3 stars
    I had trouble with the gelatin part. It didn’t seem to set right. Maybe I did something wrong?

    1. User avatar chester.koelpin says:

      4 stars
      Maybe you didn’t let the gelatin bloom long enough? It’s super important to follow that step. Don’t worry, you’ll get it next time!

  43. User avatar salley.veum58 says:

    2 stars
    Don’t trust it. Too many steps for a dessert. Who has time to wait for gelatin?

    1. User avatar Lang Raynor says:

      4 stars
      Come on, it’s just some waiting! Good things take time! This panna cotta looks delish!

    2. User avatar sebastian.leannon1998 says:

      5 stars
      I get that it seems like a lot, but it’s totally worth it! The flavor is amazing! Just plan ahead a bit.

  44. User avatar sang.mann2001 says:

    4 stars
    Easy recipe. Just make sure you watch the heat closely with the cream. Mine almost boiled over!

  45. User avatar wade.dare2021 says:

    2 stars
    Why use gelatin? Can’t I just use some cornstarch instead? Seems weird to use animal products.

  46. User avatar CTRLplusW says:

    3 stars
    Seriously who has pistachio paste lying around? Couldn’t find any at my local stores.

    1. User avatar Sand-Dial says:

      4 stars
      I know right? It’s super hard to find pistachio paste. Maybe try making your own if you have raw pistachios?

    2. 3 stars
      Who needs pistachio paste? You could use almond butter instead. Just as good!

  47. User avatar diana.mosciski95 says:

    5 stars
    Tastes like something from a restaurant! This is my new favorite dessert. Thanks!

    1. User avatar tyree.rice1 says:

      3 stars
      Honestly, I found it to be too sweet. Maybe less sugar next time?

    2. 5 stars
      So pleased to hear you enjoyed it! It’s really easy to make. 😍

  48. User avatar Falmer Shaman says:

    2 stars
    I tried making this, but my gelatin didn’t bloom right. What did I do wrong? 🙁

    1. User avatar frederic.romaguera55 says:

      2 stars
      Gelatin? I ain’t never heard of that! You sure it didn’t go bad?

    2. User avatar rickiestmorty says:

      4 stars
      Hmm, maybe the water was too warm? It should be cold to bloom properly. Don’t worry! You’ll get it next time!

  49. User avatar Draugr Scourge says:

    1 star
    I dunno, pistachios are ok but this was too creamy for my taste. Just not for me.

    1. User avatar jacinto.beatty1962 says:

      5 stars
      Too creamy? Really? I loved it! Maybe you just used too much of the heavy cream. Anyway, I think it tastes amazing!

    2. User avatar Loonquawl and Phouchg says:

      4 stars
      I think it’s supposed to be creamy! That’s the whole point of panna cotta, lol. But if it’s too much for you, maybe try reducing the cream next time?

  50. User avatar Diego Harris DVM says:

    5 stars
    This was soooo good! The pistachio flavor is just heavenly, my family loved it!

3.60 from 77 votes
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