Pistachio Custard Pie

Pistachio Custard Pie: A Rich and Nutty Delight

If you’re a fan of creamy, nutty desserts, this Pistachio Custard Pie is a must-try. With a buttery homemade crust and a luscious custard filling infused with roasted pistachios, this pie offers a unique and sophisticated flavor. Topped with fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios, it’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a special gathering or simply to treat yourself, this pie is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutty and Creamy: The combination of roasted pistachios, cream cheese, and custard creates a rich, velvety texture with a delicate nutty flavor.
• Homemade Crust: The crust, enhanced with finely chopped pistachios, adds a delightful crunch and complements the creamy filling.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: This pie is an elegant dessert that will stand out at any gathering, from holiday dinners to casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons white granulated sugar
• 8 tablespoons cold salted butter, cubed
• ¼ cup finely chopped pistachios
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 cup lightly salted roasted pistachios
• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• Whipped cream, for topping

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust

Start by preparing the crust. In a large mixing bowl or food processor, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles pea-sized chunks. Stir in the finely chopped pistachios.

Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, while mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to add too much water—use just enough to allow the dough to hold together. Once combined, shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for 30 minutes to chill.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the pie bakes evenly with a crisp crust and perfectly set filling.

3. Make the Filling

While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a food processor, blend the roasted pistachios with ½ cup of sugar until finely ground. Set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the remaining ½ cup of sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract, and whole milk, ensuring everything is fully incorporated.

Add the ground pistachio-sugar mixture to the cream cheese mixture and whisk until the filling is smooth and well blended.

4. Assemble the Pie

Roll out the chilled pie crust on a lightly floured surface until it is large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the pie dish, pressing it into the edges. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges for a decorative finish.

Pour the pistachio custard filling into the prepared crust, smoothing it out evenly.

5. Bake the Pie

Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes. The outer edges should be set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the dish. This will ensure a creamy, custard-like texture once chilled.

6. Cool and Chill

Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for 1-2 hours. Then, refrigerate it for 2-3 hours until it is fully chilled and set.

7. Serve

To serve, slice the pie and top each piece with a generous dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pistachios for added texture and flavor. Enjoy this indulgent dessert cold.

Tips for Success

• Chill the Dough: Make sure to chill the pie crust dough for at least 30 minutes. This helps the butter solidify, resulting in a flakier crust.
• Don’t Overbake: The pie should have a slight jiggle in the center when it’s done baking. This will set as it cools, ensuring a smooth, creamy texture.
• Make Ahead: This pie is perfect for making ahead of time. You can refrigerate it overnight, making it even easier to serve at your event.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories: 420 kcal per serving

Final Thoughts

This Pistachio Custard Pie is a luxurious and creamy dessert that will wow your friends and family with its rich flavor and beautiful presentation. The combination of roasted pistachios, cream cheese, and a buttery homemade crust creates a delightful texture contrast that is hard to resist. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to something indulgent, this pie is sure to become a new favorite.

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