Pistachio Tiramisu Layered Dessert

Section: Sweet Treats for Any Occasion

This Italian-inspired tiramisu features a creamy combination of mascarpone and pistachio cream, layered with coffee-soaked sponge fingers. The double cream is gently whipped with icing sugar, then blended with mascarpone and pistachio cream for a silky texture. Savoiardi are dipped briefly in strong coffee to absorb flavour without turning soggy, then alternated with the rich pistachio-cream mixture. Once assembled, the dessert is chilled for several hours to deepen the flavours and set the layers. Finished with feathered pistachio cream and chopped pistachios for a decorative touch, this chilled treat is best enjoyed after a full night in the fridge.

Savor by Sophie official logo
Created By Sophie
Updated on Mon, 17 Nov 2025 20:49:20 GMT
A slice of cake with almonds on top. Save
A slice of cake with almonds on top. | savorbysophie.com

This pistachio tiramisu brings together creamy, dreamy layers of mascarpone and pistachio cream with coffee-soaked sponge fingers for the most luxurious dessert that feels special and is so easy to put together. With just a little effort and some overnight chilling, you get a gorgeous Italian treat that is sure to impress every time you serve it.

I first made this when I wanted to surprise my family with something different at a holiday dinner and now it is a must whenever we gather

Ingredients

  • Strong coffee: brings a rich flavor base and soaks into the sponge fingers choose a robust roast for best results
  • Savoiardi sponge fingers or ladyfingers: are essential for authentic tiramisu texture go for crisp dry ones that hold their shape
  • Double cream: ensures the filling is lusciously rich use cream that pours thickly from the carton
  • Icing sugar: sweetens the cream smoothly fine texture makes it dissolve without grittiness
  • Mascarpone: gives that iconic creamy taste pick one that is soft and unstirred for smooth blending
  • Pistachio cream: delivers the nutty twist find pure pistachio cream with no added oil or flavorings for the brightest flavor
  • Chopped pistachios: add crunch and color for garnish select unsalted roasted ones for maximum pistachio taste

Instructions

Whip the Cream:
In a large clean mixing bowl whisk cold double cream and icing sugar on medium speed. Continue until very soft peaks form this is key for a light and pillowy filling.
Mix the Mascarpone and Pistachio:
In a separate bowl use a spatula or mixer to beat together mascarpone and pistachio cream until evenly combined. Aim for a smooth mix with no streaks or lumps it should look pale and creamy.
Combine the Fillings:
Gently fold the mascarpone pistachio mixture into the whipped cream using light strokes. Stop folding as soon as the mixture is just blended to keep the texture airy.
Soak the Sponge Fingers:
Pour strong coffee into a shallow wide dish. Lightly dip each savoiardi finger for just a second or two on each side they should hold together and not get soggy.
Layer the Base:
Place a neat single layer of coffee-soaked fingers in your serving dish fitting them snugly without breaking.
Add the First Cream Layer:
Spoon about a third of the pistachio cream mixture over the sponge base and spread gently to cover.
Repeat Layers:
Top with another layer of soaked fingers then more cream mixture. Repeat until you use all the sponge fingers and cream ending with a pistachio layer on top.
Decorate the Top:
Fill a small piping bag or plastic sandwich bag with extra pistachio cream snip the end and pipe lines across the top. Drag a toothpick through in the opposite direction to create a feathered effect be creative with your design.
Chill and Set:
Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least four hours or ideally overnight to deepen the flavors and firm up the dessert.
Finish and Serve:
Remove tiramisu from the fridge about twenty minutes before serving for best texture. Sprinkle a generous handful of chopped pistachios over the top before slicing.
A slice of cake with almonds on top.
A slice of cake with almonds on top. | savorbysophie.com

My favorite part is swirling the pistachio cream at the end I have memories of my niece helping decorate and giggling over our wobbly lines every holiday makes this dessert feel extra special in our family

Storage Tips

Keep covered in the fridge for up to four days to maintain freshness and texture. Store leftovers in a tight container so the cream does not pick up any fridge odors. If you want to freeze slice first for easy portioning then defrost in the fridge overnight for best results.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try hazelnut spread in place of pistachio cream for a completely different nutty spin. Use regular whipping cream if double cream is not available though the filling may be slightly lighter. Instant espresso works in a pinch but strong brewed coffee delivers deeper flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve after a big Italian feast for a showstopping finish. Delicious with espresso or even a small glass of dessert wine on the side. For extra flair scatter a dusting of cocoa or a drizzle of dark chocolate over the pistachio topping.

A slice of cake with almonds and pistachio nuts on top.
A slice of cake with almonds and pistachio nuts on top. | savorbysophie.com

This pistachio tiramisu is both beautiful and simple to make. It quickly becomes a new classic with its creamy layers and vibrant nutty twist.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent the sponge fingers from becoming soggy?

Dip the sponge fingers into the coffee for just a couple of seconds on each side. This allows them to absorb flavour without falling apart. Even if the biscuits feel slightly firm, they'll soften as they sit with the cream layers.

→ How long should I chill before serving?

Chill for at least 4 hours, but for best texture and flavour, refrigerate overnight before serving to allow the layers to set.

→ Can I prepare this dessert in advance?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate it a day ahead. This actually improves the flavour and texture, making it ideal for entertaining.

→ How should I decorate the top?

Piping extra pistachio cream in lines and feathering with a toothpick creates a pretty finish. Sprinkle chopped pistachios for added crunch and colour.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Cover the dish with cling film or use an airtight container. Keep refrigerated and consume within 3–4 days.

Pistachio Tiramisu Layered Dessert

Coffee-soaked sponge fingers, mascarpone, and pistachio cream combine for a rich, chilled Italian dessert.

Preparation Time
30 mins
Time to Cook
~
Overall Time
30 mins
Created By: Sophie

Recipe Type: Desserts

Level of Expertise: Requires Some Skill

Cuisine Style: Italian

Makes: 6 Portions

Dietary Needs: Plant-Based

Ingredients You’ll Need

→ Base and Soaking

01 100 ml strong brewed coffee
02 200 g savoiardi sponge fingers

→ Cream Layer

03 300 ml double cream
04 75 g icing sugar
05 250 g mascarpone
06 100 g pistachio cream, plus extra for decoration

→ Decoration

07 Chopped pistachios

How to Make It

Step 01

In a large mixing bowl, whisk double cream and icing sugar until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat mascarpone with pistachio cream, then gently fold into the whipped cream until evenly combined.

Step 02

Pour the brewed coffee into a shallow dish. Quickly dip each savoiardi sponge finger in the coffee for a few seconds per side, ensuring they absorb the flavour but do not become soggy.

Step 03

Arrange a layer of coffee-soaked sponge fingers in an even layer at the bottom of a medium-sized serving dish (approximately 23 x 33 cm). Spread a portion of the pistachio cream mixture evenly over the sponge fingers.

Step 04

Add another layer of soaked sponge fingers followed by another portion of the cream. Continue to layer, finishing with a final layer of the pistachio cream mixture.

Step 05

Spoon additional pistachio cream into a piping or sandwich bag, snip the tip, and pipe lines across the top layer. Use a toothpick to create a feathered pattern by dragging through the lines in the opposite direction. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.

Step 06

Remove from the refrigerator 20 minutes prior to serving. Sprinkle generously with chopped pistachios before slicing and serving.

Extra Tips

  1. For best flavour and texture, prepare a day in advance and allow the dessert to chill overnight.
  2. Dip sponge fingers briefly in coffee to prevent them from becoming overly saturated and soggy.
  3. Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Recommended Tools

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk or electric mixer
  • Shallow dish
  • Medium-sized serving dish (approximately 23 x 33 cm)
  • Piping bag or sandwich bag
  • Toothpick

Allergen Details

Check all the ingredients to avoid allergens, and seek medical advice if you’re unsure.
  • Contains milk and dairy products (cream, mascarpone)
  • Contains eggs and gluten (savoiardi sponge fingers)
  • Contains tree nuts (pistachios)

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

These nutrition details are for informational purposes only and shouldn’t replace professional dietary guidance.
  • Calories: 529
  • Fat: 40 g
  • Carbs: 35 g
  • Protein: 8 g