Julia Walton
Golden, airy choux pastry filled with rich pistachio cream—these pistachio cream puffs are nothing short of a dream come true for dessert lovers. Each bite bursts with the nutty aroma of pistachios, the delicate sweetness of the cream, and the perfect crunch of the pastry shell. They are the kind of dessert that looks as stunning on a dessert table as they taste.
Whether you’re planning a fancy brunch, an afternoon tea party, or simply want to treat yourself to something indulgent, these cream puffs are a showstopper. The light dusting of powdered sugar and chopped pistachios on top add the finishing touch that makes them not just a dessert but a piece of edible art.
What Kind of Pistachios Should I Use?
For the best flavor, use roasted and unsalted pistachios. Roasting deepens the nutty taste, while skipping the salt ensures the cream stays perfectly sweet. If you prefer a stronger pistachio flavor, you can also use pistachio paste or finely ground pistachio flour in the cream filling.
Ingredients for the Irresistible Pistachio Cream Puffs That Melt in Your Mouth
- Choux Pastry Dough – This light and airy dough is the backbone of the cream puffs, creating that signature hollow interior ready to be filled.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and helps the dough achieve its golden color.
- Eggs – Essential for structure and giving the pastry its delicate puff.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the body and texture to the choux pastry.
- Whole Milk – Used in the pastry and cream for a rich and smooth texture.
- Heavy Cream – Whipped to a fluffy consistency for the luscious pistachio filling.
- Pistachios – Finely ground for the cream and chopped for garnish to add that nutty crunch.
- Powdered Sugar – Lightly dusted over the puffs for a beautiful presentation and a touch of sweetness.
How To Make the Irresistible Pistachio Cream Puffs That Melt in Your Mouth
Step 1: Preparing the Choux Pastry Dough
In a medium saucepan, combine water, milk, butter, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and stir in all-purpose flour. Keep stirring until the dough forms a smooth ball and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
Step 2: Incorporating the Eggs
Transfer the dough to a mixing bowl and let it cool slightly. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. The dough should become glossy and smooth, with a thick yet pipeable consistency.
Step 3: Piping and Baking
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a round tip. Pipe small mounds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for them to puff. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and firm. Allow them to cool completely.
Step 4: Preparing the Pistachio Cream Filling
Whip heavy cream until soft peaks form, then fold in finely ground pistachios and a little powdered sugar. For extra flavor, you can add a spoonful of pistachio paste. Chill the cream until ready to use.
Step 5: Filling the Puffs
Slice the cooled puffs in half. Pipe or spoon the pistachio cream generously into the hollow center, then place the tops back on.
Step 6: Garnishing
Dust the tops with powdered sugar and sprinkle chopped pistachios for a beautiful finish. Serve immediately or refrigerate for a few hours before enjoying.
Serving and Storing These Pistachio Cream Puffs
These pistachio cream puffs are best served fresh, ideally on the same day they’re filled. The pastry stays crisp, and the cream remains airy and luscious. If you need to prepare them ahead, store the empty puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Fill them with cream just before serving.
For short-term storage, filled cream puffs can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Keep them in a single layer inside an airtight container to prevent them from becoming soggy. Avoid freezing filled puffs, as the cream loses its texture when thawed.
What to Serve With Pistachio Cream Puffs?
1. Hot Cappuccino or Latte
The rich nutty cream pairs beautifully with the frothy warmth of coffee, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
2. Fresh Berry Salad
A mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy filling.
3. Sparkling Wine or Champagne
If serving at a celebration, a glass of bubbly complements the lightness of the pastry perfectly.
4. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream turns these puffs into an indulgent plated dessert.
5. Citrus Sorbet
The tangy brightness of lemon or orange sorbet balances the richness of the pistachio cream.
6. Dark Chocolate Sauce
A drizzle of warm dark chocolate adds a decadent twist for chocolate lovers.
7. Roasted Almonds or Hazelnuts
Sprinkle some on the serving plate for added crunch and a nutty flavor variation.
Want More Dessert Ideas with a Nutty Twist?
If you love these pistachio cream puffs, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
- Chocolate Cherry Cream Pie for a fruity-chocolate indulgence.
- Salted Caramel Cupcakes with a rich caramel swirl.
- Pecan Pie Cheesecake for a creamy southern-inspired dessert.
- White Chocolate Strawberry Cheesecake when you crave something light and fruity.
- Brown Sugar Caramel Pound Cake for a cozy and rich treat.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe you added a hint of orange zest or dipped the tops in chocolate? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Irresistible Pistachio Cream Puffs That Melt in Your Mouth
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Piping bag
- baking sheet
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup finely ground pistachios
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon pistachio paste (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios for garnish
- to taste powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- In a saucepan, combine water, milk, butter, and salt. Bring to a gentle boil, then stir in flour until dough forms and pulls away from the pan.
- Transfer to a bowl, let cool slightly, then beat in eggs one at a time until glossy and smooth.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pipe dough onto parchment-lined baking sheet and bake 25–30 minutes until golden. Cool completely.
- Whip heavy cream to soft peaks. Fold in ground pistachios, powdered sugar, and pistachio paste if using. Chill.
- Slice puffs, fill generously with cream, and replace tops.
- Dust with powdered sugar and sprinkle chopped pistachios before serving.