My love affair with sweet, nutty spreads began back in high school when I received a bag from my Italian exchange partner. Inside were small jars of Nutella from Italy and a luxurious, gilded jar of Caffarel gianduia spread. From that moment on, I was hooked. The Italian version of Nutella was a revelation, and I became one of those people who couldn’t stop singing its praises, much like those who swear by the superiority of Mexican Coke over the American variety. This experience sparked my ongoing search for the next sweet spread to deliver that same satisfying, indulgent feeling. Over time, I found myself enamored with speculoos, ube halaya, and even chocolate tahini, but none could quite dethrone Nutella. That is, until pistachio cream entered my life.
What Exactly is Pistachio Cream?
Pistachio cream is a smooth, sweet spread made primarily from pistachios, sugar, and oils, all blended together into a luscious, spreadable form. It’s important to distinguish pistachio cream from pistachio butter (also known as pistachio paste), which is made by grinding pistachios into a paste and is typically unsweetened. Additionally, pistachio cream differs from pistachio pesto, which is savory and packed with salty, herbaceous flavors—perfect for drizzling on pasta, but not quite the sweet treat you’re looking for.
This green wonder can be used in various ways: as a spread on toast or pancakes, incorporated into desserts, or simply enjoyed straight off the spoon when you need a quick sugar fix. Similar to other nut butters, pistachio cream comes in both creamy and crunchy varieties, allowing you to choose the texture that best suits your preferences. Each brand has its own formula, often varying the ratio of pistachios, sugar, and oil, with some brands even adding milk powder or flavor enhancers to enhance the overall taste.
Where to Find Pistachio Cream
While pistachio cream has become increasingly popular—thanks in no small part to its rising prominence on social media platforms like TikTok—you might find it somewhat elusive in your typical supermarket. If you’re lucky enough, it may be nestled near Nutella or the other nut butters. However, pistachio cream’s popularity is growing fast, and it’s now showing up in more and more recipes online. If it’s not in your local grocery store, check out specialty food stores or high-end retailers like Whole Foods, where the chances of finding a jar are higher.
In the US, many of the top brands hail from Italy, especially those from Bronte, Sicily. Bronte pistachios are highly regarded, often referred to as “green gold,” and are celebrated for their exceptional quality. If you’re in the market for an expensive but truly delectable option, a jar of Bronte pistachio cream might be just what you’re looking for. It’s worth noting that Bronte hosts an annual Pistachio Festival, where you can dive deep into the culture of these prized pistachios. While Bronte’s offerings might break the bank, the flavor is undeniably rich and nuanced, making it worth the splurge for true pistachio lovers.
For more affordable options, you’ll find a wealth of choices online. Amazon is an excellent resource, offering a wide variety of brands from all over the world. Personally, I’ve enjoyed trying the crema di pistacchio from Marullo and Campo d’Oro’s pistachio butter. Both offer a delightful flavor and texture, though there are still some higher-end options I’m eager to try, such as Giannetti Artisans’ pistachio spread and Pistacchiosa, which have earned rave reviews for their rich, decadent taste. When my current stash runs out, I’ll likely give these more premium choices a try—or perhaps I’ll take a DIY route and try Stella’s pistachio paste recipe to make my own.
What to Do with Pistachio Cream?
Now that you’ve secured your jar of this green delight, what exactly do you do with it? The possibilities are endless, but here are a few of my favorite ways to incorporate pistachio cream into your life:
1. Spread It on Carby Goodness
Start simple. Spread pistachio cream on toast, waffles, or pancakes for a deliciously nutty twist. The richness of the cream pairs perfectly with the softness of the bread or the crispiness of waffles.
2. Top Your Oatmeal
Pistachio cream is a perfect topping for your morning oatmeal. Stir in a spoonful for a creamy, nutty flavor that elevates your breakfast to new heights. For a truly decadent treat, you can top it off with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios for added crunch and texture.
3. Incorporate It Into Desserts
Pistachio cream is a natural fit for desserts. Use it as a filling for cakes or pastries, or incorporate it into homemade ice cream for a creamy, nutty twist. If you’re making truffles or cookies, pistachio cream can add an extra layer of flavor and richness that will elevate your confections.
4. Whipped Cream with Pistachio Twist
For an extra indulgence, whip pistachio cream with some heavy cream to make a luscious topping for cakes, pies, or fruit salads. The pistachio flavor shines through, making it the perfect accompaniment to a variety of sweet treats.
5. Spoon It Straight from the Jar
Of course, one of the best ways to enjoy pistachio cream is straight from the jar. When you’re craving something sweet and don’t have time for preparation, just grab a spoon and enjoy this nutty delight. It’s the perfect on-the-go snack or a quick dessert for moments when you need a little indulgence.
In Conclusion: A Sweet New Obsession
If you’ve never tried pistachio cream before, it’s time to indulge in this rich, nutty spread. It’s not just another passing trend in the world of nut butters; it’s a spread that brings a new depth of flavor to breakfast, snacks, and desserts. Whether you’re spreading it on waffles, incorporating it into a homemade dessert, or enjoying it straight from the spoon, pistachio cream offers a unique, indulgent experience. So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to fall in love with pistachio cream—trust me, it’s worth it.
